Plan, build, and maintain durable and stylish outdoor decks.
Deck building is one of the most satisfying jobs a homeowner can ever complete. A deck adds value to your house and gives you more room. A deck is a place to rest, to have fun, to be outside. Building a deck is not merely stacking pieces of wood and driving nails. Prices vary according to size, design and materials. A safe and beautiful deck is formed by planning, appropriate tools and maintenance.
In this step-by-step guide, you will know how to plan your deck, build it and maintain it such that you can use it for many years to come.
Collect your tools and materials before beginning. This will save more time and be less frustrating because you have everything at hand.
Tools:
You will need a tape measure, level, framing square, circular saw or mitre saw, drill bits, post-hole digger, shovel, wheelbarrow, chalk line, and clamps. Prepare a hammer, screwdrivers, a pry bar, wrenches and a safety. Put on gloves, eyewear, and ear protection.
Materials:
Choose pressure-treated wood, cedar, composite boards, PVC decking or mineral-based composite. They all have different prices and looks, as well as different maintenance needs.
You are also going to need concrete mix to be used on footings, joist hangers, galvanized hardware, ledger boards, deck screws or nails, flashing, and sealant or stain.
Buy more fasteners and boards, always, since there are always mistakes or even repairs that can be made.
Your deck has to fit with your house, your lawn, and yourself. Begin with a sketch. Find the size, shape and configuration. Consider your usage. Do you need space to put a dining table, barbecue or inlaid seats in?
Consider the sun, shade and privacy. A southern-facing deck is hot in summer. A south-facing deck becomes hot during summer. A shaded deck tends to retain more moisture. Consider how your deck attaches to your home and yard. Install stairs or more than one level if necessary.
Measure your desired space carefully. Measure the length and width of the outdoors. Take a tour of the premises to get a feel of the furniture size. Draw the plan on paper with all dimensions. Break the design into rectangles or squares to calculate square footage. This helps estimate costs and materials.
The material you use will influence cost, appearance and maintenance.
Wood decking provides a natural appearance and is cheap. Cedar and redwood are rot-resistant but expensive. Tropical hardwoods are hard-wearing but extremely costly. Wood needs staining or sealing to avoid fading and decay.
Composite decking is a plastic mixture of wood. It is also water-resistant and requires less maintenance than wood. It is available in numerous colours and textures.
PVC decking is completely synthetic. It provides maximum protection against water and insects.
Mineral composite decking is stable and durable, even at high and low temperatures. It's more expensive, but it lasts longer.
The foundation for a successful project begins with a prepared site. Clear the land of grass, vegetation, or existing buildings. Remove garden beds or rocks that are in the path. Make sure the site drains well to avoid water standing under the deck.
If you intend to attach the deck to your home, make sure to look at where you will have the exterior door. Clear any obstructions. In case your land slopes, grading or extra supports might be necessary.
There are building codes for decks in every Canadian city and town. Code is in place to safeguard safety. You will have construction, electrical, or plumbing permits if you include outdoor water features.
Obtain permits before starting. This prevents fines, and your deck is guaranteed to be up to code. Also, contact your local utility company before digging to mark underground lines. This avoids the risk of hitting hidden wires or pipes.
If you reside in a homeowners' association, see what they have to say. Some have restrictions on the size, height, or type of deck.
Now that the frame is in place, it's time for decking boards. Begin at the house and work outwards. Make small gaps between boards for drainage and expansion. Employ spacers to maintain even gaps. Cut overhanging boards for a neat edge.
Before installing the final row, set railing posts. Railings are needed for decks more than 30 inches above the ground. Install balusters and top rails. Screw them down to ensure that they are secure. Stair risers, treads, and guardrails must be firm. The apertures should not be larger than four inches so that they will not lead to accidents.
Look at the whole deck of boards and nails to see whether they are loose or not. Rough surfaces on the sand to stop splinters.
After the building is complete, consider comfort and looks.
Stain or sealant wood decking. This protects against sun, rain and snow. When the surface stops beading water, re-treat.
Install security and decorative lighting. Select low-voltage lights or solar lights on posts, steps or under rails.
Add extras like planters, inbuilt seating or a pergola to provide shade. These accessories make your deck an outdoor room.
To be safe and pleasing to the eye, a deck must be maintained regularly. Seasonal changes in Canada are especially tough, whether it's snow or hot summer sun.
Spring
Look over the deck of the house to see if it has loose screws, nails, or boards. Tighten them or replace them. Wash the surface using power to remove dirt, algae and mould. Seal or re-stain when water stops beading on boards.
Summer
Sweep the deck regularly to clean out dust and debris. Inspect railings and stairs for safety. Trim vegetation to let it get airflow and not become soggy.
Fall
Leaf and branch litter. Inspect flashing and support frames before winter. Cover or put away outdoor furniture. Wipe down before the first snow.
Winter
Use a plastic shovel to pick up snow so as not to scratch. Salt and ice melt should be avoided as these products can damage wood and composite boards. Check the deck regularly to see whether there is any ice or water.
A deck is a true extension of your home. It will be safe and beautiful, thoughtfully planned, built solidly and maintained occasionally. Check this list to design, build and refurbish a deck that adds value to your house and enjoy your life.