You can find lots of new products related to decking on the market, and also the methods for deck building continue to improve and evolve with time. In this post, we will share a few best tips and products so that you can build a great-looking deck, which is going to last for decades.
WoodCritique can also provide you detailed information and help you settle for your right wood and decks meant for different purpose.
Table of Contents
Required Tools for your Deck Building Project
For this DIY project, you must have all the necessary tools arranged before you start so that you can save your time and avoid frustration.
- Tape measure
- Straightedge
- Stair gauge
- Sawhorses
- Safety glasses
- Jigsaw
- Framing square
- Cordless drill
- Combination square
- Circular saw
The following are a few ways you can build your deck.
1. Simplify Joist Hanging
One of the easiest methods is to run your deck joists, particularly when you are working single-handedly, then you need to attach joist hangers with your ledger board before you start installing your joists. The main trick will be to set all of them at the exact height. You must take a few minutes for tacking together your jig.
2. Accurate Notching
One of the most accurate ways of cutting a deck board around any post will be to lay it in a position that is against the post. Then transfer your post location onto it directly. While measuring the notch depth, check both sides of your post. Often there is a twist in your post and the measurements may not be equal. With a jigsaw, cut out the notch.
3. Space Balusters by Using a Jig
A simple jig for building rail sections will center the baluster on 3½” wide rails and set the space of 4” or less. Always start in your center so that the leftover space is equal on each end.
Measure the total length either start with your baluster or with your opening centered -whichever creates the space between the post and baluster closest to your baluster opening of 4” maximum.
4. Hanging Stronger Stair Stringers
Now cut the 2 X 12 stringers and secure them to block between the joists, if they are running parallel to your stringers. Set your stair rise to 7¼” and then tread to 11”. Always allow a minimum of 3½” of wood perpendicular to your stinger’s back and your deepest cut-out.
5. Straighten Bowed Deck Board
Your lumber supplier may be one of the best available but still, a good amount of your decking will surely be bowed. For any deck construction project, straightening the bowed boards will be a routine part of the job.
6. Trim Deck Boards
If you try to use a 2 X 2 board, then sight down it from its one end to ensure that you get it straight. You may need to cut the last 2 boards off your freehand. You can mark the cut with chalk and run your saw straight motion.
7. Craft your Beveled Post Cap
Secure the cap on the posts by using construction adhesive and a few 3” galvanized finish nails.