A deck is the perfect place to
relax with friends, flip through a magazine, and sip a cup
of morning coffee. If you want to build your own deck, the
initial step is to plan ahead, before you break out the tool
belt.
Components of a deck
Part of the planning process includes understanding the
basic structure of a deck. A deck is more than just a large
surface area for standing – it actually consists of many
layers of construction designed for durability and safety.
Foundation. This is the part of the deck that holds up the
structure and keeps it tied to the ground. Depending on your
climate and deck size, the foundation may vary in size and
how it is put together, although it’s usually made of
concrete piers. A good foundation will provide enough
strength to safely transfer load from the deck to the earth
below it.
Posts. Present on all decks (except for very short ones),
posts will determine the height of your deck. 4x4 posts are
the most common, and may be cut off just below the surface
of the deck or continue upwards to act as support for the
railing or an overhead structure. The posts rest on top of
the concrete piers.
Beams. Make up the horizontal structure of the deck. Beams
are attached to posts and also connect the frame of the deck
to your house’s foundation (this type of beam is called a
ledger).
Joists. A series of boards across the distance from beam to
beam or beam to ledger.
Skirt. Also called a fascia board, this hides the edges of
the joists. Deck boards comprise the surface layer of the
deck
Stairs. The part of the stair you step on is called the
tread. These are connected to stringers (the boards that go
from the surface of the deck to the ground). Risers fill in
the space between treads, although they are not usually
present on deck stairs.
Deck configuration
The planning process involves determining the design of your
deck as well. Consider what you will be using the deck for,
and how you want it to complement your home. For most
people, the standard rectangular deck off the kitchen or
family room is the right solution; for others, a more
dramatic design may be more appropriate.
A popular deck design is one that wraps around several sides
of the house. Another option is to construct a deck that
rises two or more levels, offering the utmost in
versatility. |
