A deck is a structure usually made from wood and is located adjacent to most houses. It can be a great way to add an outdoor living space to your house for relaxing family meals or fun-filled social events. Whether you’re building a new deck or renovating an old one, you can’t do it without the help of a professional. But many homeowners find DIY projects quite enjoyable, and yet even they cannot carry out a decking installation project without expert tips and guides from a professional.
Getting The Right Tools For Decking Installation:
Decking installation or even building can not start without the right set of tools. If you have worked on similar DIY projects before, then you probably have some of the following tools, but if you haven’t, then you’ll need to acquire them.
Here are the three categories of tools any DIYer would need for a decking installation project:
| Basic Tools | Safety Equipment | Power Tools |
| ✅ Framing hammer ✅ Plumb bob ✅ 4 ft. level ✅ Socket wrench and socket set ✅ Assorted screwdrivers ✅ Pencil ✅ Pry bar ✅ Caulking gun and caulk ✅ Framing square ✅ Tape measure ✅ Handsaw ✅ Sawhorses | ✅ Safety goggles ✅ Earplugs ✅ First aid kit | ✅ Extension cords ✅ Power saw ✅ Jigsaw ✅ Miter saw ✅ Drill and drill bits |
Decking Installation: The All You Need To Know Guide:
If you’re someone who believes that hiring a contractor for decking installation would be costly, then this guide was made just for you. From giving you the satisfaction of building something yourself to guaranteeing that you don’t mess up and waste money, this DIY decking installation guide can be very beneficial.
Let’s look at our 8-step checklist for decking installation with easy-to-follow steps and instructions:
a. Deck planning and designing:
From considering the slope of your yard to getting all the required permits, the decking installation process starts with designing and planning, just like any other DIY project. After acquiring all the right tools and permits, there are 4 things you must consider in the planning phase:
- The size and shape of your desired deck.
- The type of materials you’ll choose for the project.
- The deck’s location.
- The deck-building and installation codes in your area.
b. Site prep:
In this step, you will be marking the location of your deck and digging holes for support posts. It is important to check any underground utilities before you start digging. All the holes should be at least 36 inches deep with a diameter of 12 inches.
c. Installing support for the deck:
The third step is to install your deck’s footings, which are the concrete supports that are responsible for holding the deck’s weight. For this, you need to mix the concrete first as per the manufacturer’s instructions and pour it into the holes. Don’t forget to level the concrete and let it cure for at least 24 hours before continuing.
d. Time for the support posts:
After the curing duration for the footings is over, you need to install the support posts, which will help hold up your deck frame. Remember to choose posts made of pressure-treated lumber and place them in the centre of the footings. Use post anchors to first level the posts and then attach them to the footings.
e. Supporting the railing with the rim joist:
The rim joist is another crucial component, which is the deck’s outermost frame and is crucial for holding the deck boards in place. Always choose a rim joist made of pressure-treated lumber and use joist hangers to attach it to the support posts.
f. Installing the deck’s surface:
The decking boards make up the surface of your deck and are installed once the frame is in place, and come in various types of materials, including PVC, composite, and wood. The right material can make all the difference, so choose a board material that is suitable according to your regional climate.
g. The right railing system for the right deck:
From wood and glass to metal, railing systems come in a wide range of materials and styles, each with different properties. Installing an appropriate railing system is essential for a safe deck as well as to avoid fines for violation of building codes.
h. Staining for aesthetics:
With the decking components installed, now all you need to do is add a sealant or stain over the surface to protect it against the natural elements. A great tip is to add some nice lighting for improved ambiance.
Conclusion:
A well-planned and carefully handled decking installation project can be the easiest way to improve your property’s curb appeal while also creating an aesthetically pleasing outdoor space for you and your loved ones to hang out and relax in the evenings. But it all starts with the right tools and the right guide, which is why if you follow all the above instructions, your next DIY decking installation project will surely be a success.
FAQs:
Do I need a membrane under the decking?
Yes, if you’re building on grass or soil instead of concrete, having a membrane underneath your deck is a good idea.
What happens if you don’t leave gaps in decking?
This could lead to damaged and unsafe boards as they shrink or swell and grind against each other.
Do you screw deck boards to every joist?
Yes, you need to attach one screw on each joist for every deck board.