EXTERIOR: DECKS and PORCHES
EXTERIOR: DECKS and PORCHES
Embedded Files
DECKS
Where applicable, all houses should have some deck in the rear of the house.
There should be a distance between the deck and the railing. This will allow for leaves to be easily blown out from the deck.
We do not put screws on the top.
Generally, any deck raised above 30 inches above grade is required by code to have a railing.
Posts are notched and bolted to concrete or are in metal post-base boots.
The strong ties will let you secure deck boards from underneath to protect them from rain and water.
Example pictures of how to build a deck railing on a slab
Deck Tip: Always double-layer your rim joist and perimeter joist. This video will show you how.
Rim Joist.mp4Railing tip: This video will show you a great way to put two pieces of wood together on a railing by putting screw diagonally.
Railing tip.mp4HANDRAILS
HOW TO ATTACH HANDRAILS
In attaching the handrails, please note that there should be no screws on the top of the deck.
As seen in the photo, the penetrations will allow water to get in.
The handrails should be secured from underneath.
There should be a cap anywhere when there is a seam in the rails. Note that the screw should be put in from the bottom to keep water from penetrating the top.
HANDRAIL REPAIRS
When a handrail is wobbling and the post by the bottom stair is the main problem, you could dig a small area around the base of the post, and fill it with concrete. Also, some of the large 1/2" tapcons could secure it into the stoop.
Here's the link for the tapcons;
1/2 in. x 6 in. Hex-Washer-Head Large Diameter Concrete Anchors
Here's the link for the caulking;
SPINDLES
The pictures below show how to attach the spindles.
Use strong ties for the railing and secure joists to beam.
Bolts secure post into band board, as well as to secure a double band into joists.
There should always be a gap between the spindles and the deck.
Spacing balusters
This video shows tricks on how to lay out your baluster evenly by using of elastic bond.
Spacing Ballusters.mp4
DECK INSPECTION
Before you order your materials go to the building assessor and make sure that the plans will meet all all the local codes. You have to complete the application first, set of construction plans, and then the site plans. Pay the application and wait for the approcal.
USEFUL TOOLS
USEFUL VIDEOS
POST HOLES & FRAMING
Watch to learn how to safely frame your deck including post hole placement, joists, brackets and bracing.
FASTENING DECK
These hardware and fastener options are as much about lateral loads and uplift as they are about solid bearing surfaces.
FASTENING BEAMS
Watch this video to get an overview of post-to-beam hardware choices for single, double, and triple beams.
BUILDING A SET OF DECK STAIRS
This video will show you an easy method to build a set of deck stairs.
Building a set of deck stairs.mp4FRAMING METHODS FOR SECOND STORY DECK
Watch this video to know the 3 deck framing method you can use for second story deck.
3 DECKS FRAMING METHOD FOR SECOND STORY DECK.mp4INSTALLING BREAKER BOARD
This video shows how to install a breaker board in your deck which enhances the visual appeal of a deck by introducing a different pattern or design element. They provide a way to create visual interest and break up the monotony of a standard decking pattern.
Deck.MOVREPAIRING DECK
This video shows how to break off stripped rusted screws.
Deck repair.MOVUSING TOOLS BETTER IN BUILDING DECK
This video shows different tricks and techniques on how to use your tools better in building a deck, especially when dealing with screws.
Using your tools better in building deck.MOVPOST
POST
POST HOLES & FRAMING
Watch to learn how to safely frame your deck including post hole placement, joists, brackets and bracing in this video.
How to Set a Post for a Fence or Deck
Setting a post is the foundational step for many projects, including building a fence or a deck. Learn how to dig post holes and set 4x4 posts with gravel, concrete or foam in this video.
Use a plumb bob from the beam you are supporting to see the center of where your post goes.
This video shows a cool idea for a deck if there is a big rock close to the house. You don't have to remove the rock, you can cut the wood instead.
deck if there is a big rock close to the house.MOVUSING RATCHET STRAP TO PULL DOWN BEAM
If you need to move framing or pull it together- use a ratchet strap where normal mechanical manipulation is not possible.
Keeping our mess confined in the workplace
There are several reasons why we should keep our mess confined in the workplace. Here are a few:
It is a safety hazard. A cluttered workspace can be a tripping hazard, and it can also make it difficult to find important documents or equipment.
It is a productivity killer. A messy workspace can be distracting and stressful, which can make it difficult to focus on work.
It can damage company property. A messy workspace can lead to damage to company property, such as furniture, equipment, and documents.
FLASHING TAPES ON BUILDING OF DECKS
Flashing tape is a self-adhesive tape that is used to seal joints and seams in building construction. It is made of a variety of materials, including butyl rubber, acrylic, and asphalt. Flashing tape is used to prevent water and air infiltration, and to protect against moisture damage.
Flashing tape will keep the joists from rotting
Note: In putting flashing tape,cut the corners so the tape will adhere well.
This video show how to cut the flashing tape in two, easily.
Watch the video below to see Jeff's technique in cutting the flashing tape by sticking the knife in the wood and running the tape on it.
RPReplay_Final1690800418.mp4Spotting an amateur deck builder.
This video shows the wrong way of building a deck, because they lay down all the hanger first, lumbers varies in size that's why they should be set or hang your joist first before putting the hanger on.
Spotting an amateur deck builder.mp4USING CORRECT LENGHT OF FASTERNER WITH JOIST
It is important to use the correct length of fastener with joists- especially when using a strong tie. Notice how the diagonal fasteners can connect this joist to a band board or beam?
Strip out a Topcon in Concrete
This video show a hack when stripping out a Topcon in concrete.
strip out a Topcon in concrete.mp4DECK BUILDING: FRAMING AROUND A TREE
These photos will show how to frame around a tree.
PORCHES
PORCHES
PORCH COLUMN
Building a Porch Column with House Tie-In:
Building a porch column with the supports directly connected to the house, eliminating the need for a concrete pad in the front:
Materials:
Pressure-treated lumber (size depends on column design and load requirements)
Galvanized metal post anchors (designed for your chosen lumber size)
Lag screws (appropriate length for chosen lumber and anchor)
Level
Tape measure
Drill with appropriate bits for wood and metal
Circular saw
Safety gear (gloves, eye protection)
Steps:
Plan and Design:
Determine the desired height and width of your porch column.
Choose a design - square, round, or with decorative elements.
Ensure the chosen lumber is pressure-treated for outdoor use and strong enough to support the porch roof weight.
House Connection Point:
Locate the load-bearing wall in your house where the column will be attached.
Mark the attachment point on the wall at the desired height for the top of the column.
Prepare the Column Lumber:
Pre-drill holes for the lag screws through the column at the attachment point.
Attaching the Column to the House:
Hold the column in place against the house wall, ensuring it's level.
Secure the column to the house using the metal post anchors and lag screws. Drill through the pre-drilled holes in the column and into the wall following the anchor's instructions.
Building Permits: Check with your local building department to see if a permit is required for constructing a porch.
Plumb and Level: Ensure your column is perfectly plumb (vertical) and level throughout the process.
Waterproofing: Apply a sealant or waterproof paint to the column for extra protection against the elements.
Benefits of House Tie-In:
Eliminates the need for a concrete pad in the front, saving on materials and labor.
Creates a more integrated look between the porch and the house.
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