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Building a Multilevel 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.

Out Installation Services Associates built this Multievel deck and documented the steps taken in order to help you build your own outdoor living area.

 

1. Siding was removed and ledger boards attached to the house. The ledger boards establish the upper-deck level that will be 28 feet long by 15 feet wide. This upper level fits into an inner corner of the house. Batterboards and mason's string lines were used to locate footing positions for both levels of the deck. Approximate time for a novice (with a helper) to lay out footing locations for this deck: 15-17 hours, which includes removing siding and attaching the ledger.

   
 

 

 

2. Thirteen 12-inch-diameter footing holes were dug. Each hole is 48 inches deep to get below the local frost line. The bottoms of the holes didn't need flaring, but tube forms were required. Concrete was delivered by truck and pumped through a hose to each footing location. Post anchors for 6x6 posts were attached to the footings after the concrete cured for 48 hours. Large footings and posts allowed for the fewest number possible for a multilevel deck of this size.

 
 

 

3. 6x6 POSTS were installed and temporarily braced in position. A water level was used to establish post heights for each level. Posts were then trimmed at the correct height. Beams made from doubled 2x12s will sit on the posts. Joists will be cantilevered over beams on both deck levels. The lower deck level is 28 feet by 16 feet.

 

 

4. Beams were built in place and attached to the post tops with adjustable post caps. The long beams were made longer than required and will be trimmed flush with the rim joists after the joists are installed. The short beam supports the upper-deck level joists that attach at the patio door bay. The bay framing isn't strong enough to anchor a standard ledger board. Beams were covered with self-sealing membrane for extra moisture protection.

 

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These decks can be further decorated with well-placed lighting. Not chandeliers naturally, but something like table lamps with garden elves and fairy lights about the railing. There can be old fashioned lamps hung on the walls too.

 

 

Ready For Clean! - How to Start Pressure Washing
Some cleaning jobs take a lot of force – water force. Pressure washing uses a pressure washer that sprays water with high powered force so you can clean even the toughest grime, grease or mold. Learning how to start pressure washing the right way can make the job easier and quicker.

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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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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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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.

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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.

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