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Building a Ground-Level Deck ( Page 1 of 2 )

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Decks are a perfect area for outdoor entertaining and outdoor relaxing. The style of deck you choose to build determines how you use your deck, as well as how you build it. Although similar in appearance, different decks can require different construction techniques.

Our Installation Services experts built this Ground-Level deck and documented the steps taken in order to help you build your own outdoor living area.

You will see how the deck was assembled, why material choices were made, and the approximate time it took to do the work. Use this example to help you plan your own deck.

 

1. Batterboards and mason's string lines were used to lay out footing locations for a deck that is approximately 8 feet wide and 10 feet long. Six holes for 8-inch-diameter footings were dug with a posthole digger. Each hole is 12 inches deep. There is no frost line to deal with since this is a freestanding deck. Tube forms were used to level the footings about 1 inch above ground level. Approximate time for a novice (with a helper) to lay out footing locations, dig holes, and level tube forms for this deck: 5-7 hours.

   
 

 

 

2. Six 60-pound bags of ready-mix concrete were mixed in a wheelbarrow. Post anchors for 4x4 posts were attached to the footings after the concrete cured for 48 hours. The anchors were aligned with a long straight board. Diagonal measurements were checked to square the anchor positions.

 
 

 

3. Beams were made from double 2x6s. They were attached in the post anchors. A 1/2-inch-thick pressure-treated shim was installed between the beam and one side of the anchor at each footing. The anchor is 31/2 inches wide and the beam is 3 inches thick.

 

 

4. Beam alignment was checked and adjusted as necessary to make certain beams were square.

 

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Building Front Porch Deck Additions
There comes a point in the owning of any home when you simply want to change the overall look and style. And while you might consider moving, there are many other less expensive ways to achieve this dream. Building front porch deck additions is one such way. By renovating the front of your home, you not only change the curb appeal and the value, but also the way you perceive the home's interior. When people walk into your home after building front porch deck additions, they will have a different view of your personal style and tastes.

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Wisely Choosing Colors for Deck Staining
Choosing colors for deck staining can be a bit confusing until you understand the terminology. When you decide to stain a deck, you begin by deciding if you want to bring out the natural grain of the wood or use a color that hides the wood. Generally, the better the grade of wood the less color you will use. In the end though, the decision is strictly one of personal preference.

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Staining Deck Railings – Making It Last
The more solid the stain color, the longer it will last. Therefore, the solid stains are best for areas like railings that are more difficult to stain than decking. Staining deck railings is not difficult, but it does take more care than simply staining the flat deck. So you want to use a color that will last as long as possible.

Read More

 

Tricks of the Trade Cutting Deck Stairs
Cutting deck stairs really doesn’t take a lot of time, but it can get complicated in the sense that you have to calculate the rise and run, or the slope of the stairs. Deck stairs are usually built for outdoor decks, porches and gazebos. There are construction calculators to make calculating the measurements easier, but many people prefer to use old fashioned paper and pencil. The basic ingredients of deck stairs are few, but the cutting and assembly must be fairly precise.

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Fancy Deck Stairs Create Backyard Style
There's no reason to keep your deck stairs looking uninspired when you can design and construct fancy deck stairs. More elaborate, or just more elegant, deck stair styling can enhance the appearance of the entire deck. The deck is usually used like another room of the house so it only makes sense to make your deck as beautiful as the rest of your home.

Read More

 

Staining Deck Railings – Making It Last
The more solid the stain color, the longer it will last. Therefore, the solid stains are best for areas like railings that are more difficult to stain than decking. Staining deck railings is not difficult, but it does take more care than simply staining the flat deck. So you want to use a color that will last as long as possible.

Read More

 
   
 

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