Building a deck is one of the best ways to open your home to the outdoors. It not only adds living space, a deck increases your quality of life. Having a tranquil and relaxing space outdoors is reason enough for most homeowners to build.
Out of all the home improvement projects to choose from, you’ll likely see a return. Upgrading or remodeling an existing deck has a significant impact on home value, usually around 44 percent. If the average price to build a 20 ft. by 20 ft. deck is around $20,000, that’s over $6,500 in added value!
Even if you’ve got some experience building decks, recent innovations have changed the game. While every deck project is different, contractors looking to streamline decking projects use similar techniques. Time-tested and homeowner approved, these best practices and tips boost your bottom line and improve outcomes.
Happy customers are repeat customers. If you’re not already considering these factors in your builds, you could be leaving money on the table.
Let’s look at some ways to make the most out of your expertise.
While it might seem like common sense to most of us, it’s still an essential first step. Once you select a deck design, applying to the local building department for a permit is necessary. Decks are structural elements and must support the weight of the deck and people enjoying the outdoors.
Building without having your plans approved can result in fines for the homeowner and builder. Usually, you’ll still have to pay for the permit. Even worse, you could be required to demolish some of the project if deemed unsafe.
Pulling a building permit for deck building projects protects the builder and homeowner. Most localities require plans that are drawn up and certified by an architect or engineer. Not every project will require a permit, but that’s for the local authorities to decide.
While code requirements vary by location, the International Residential Code is a good place to start. Work with your clients to ensure that their dream deck is structurally sound. In this code, you’ll find details about everything from railing height, stair depth, stringers, framing, and ledger boards.
Because decks are structural, one of the most important aspects of construction is the foundation. Depending on the size of the project, digging several feet below-grade is often necessary for a strong base. But even the firmest foundation won’t hold up an off-square deck platform.
Each piece has an important part to play in providing an enjoyable environment for your clients.
Constructing piers correctly is one of the first things you’ll do when building a deck. On-grade cement blocks might be cheaper than poured piers, but they come at a cost in longevity.
Especially for decks that are large or span out over uneven terrain, poured piers are the most effective footing. Even treated lumber doesn’t last when in direct contact with the earth. The right combination of concrete and hardware makes all the difference.
In most of the United States, the frost line helps determine how deep piers need to be. When the ground freezes in winter, an effect called frost heave can put thousands of pounds of force on your pilings. If this happens, it can cause severe damage to your deck and require a costly rebuild.
To avoid damage, you’ll have to dig below the frost line for your region. Depending on how deep you’re digging, it might seem like overkill. It’s worth the extra effort for a solid foundation. Attaching a post base to poured concrete is simple. For a strong connection, fix an anchor bolt in the wet material to which you’ll attach a post base when cured.
You probably have a preference when it comes to posts for deck support. Triple 2 x 4s are commonly used, and, depending on the height of the deck, that’s appropriate. However, when decks span out over a hillside, metal posts are more structurally sound.
Beams make up the frame of your future deck. Builders generally recommend using ACQ treated lumber because it resists moisture and rot. Even if your project doesn’t require a permit, the process ensures that it’s structurally sound and can handle the weight. The frame of your deck project connects directly to the posts and ledger, so it’s got to be solid.
In between the framing, joists run parallel and create internal support. Dial in your spacing for maximum rigidity. Standards have shifted recently and the 16 in. on-center spacing is now 12 in. on-center for various reasons. Pressure treated wood and composites aren’t strong enough to support a larger span and builders have adapted.
Most decks are built from wood treated with a copper solution to resist rot and corrosion or composites.
Two main types of pressure treated wood are available: above ground and ground contact. The main difference between the two is the concentration of water-resistant compound. Ground contact has an average of 0.15 pounds per cubic feet, while above ground has 0.06 pcf.
Neither is meant to be in direct contact with the ground, but the higher concentration means a longer life of your project.
Composite materials are either made entirely from polymers or from a blend of polymer and wood flakes or plastic. Manufactured wood products contain a variety of chemical stabilizers and UV protections that make them last much up to 25 years. Available in a wide range of colors and finishes, composite decking is a versatile addition to the deck builder’s palate.
When you’re at the hardware store picking up fasteners for your next deck project, you’ll be amazed at the variety. Here are a couple of our favorites:
Grooved composite decking is designed to allow the use of hidden deck clips. Because they don’t require pre-drilling and go directly into joists, they ensure a strong hold. Grip-Rite® Ninja™ hidden deck clip makes installation easy!
IRC code require railings for all decks over 30 inches above grade. With the right railing system in place, you can elevate your view!
Consider including a metal railing system like the RailFX Oasis to enhance your client’s natural surroundings. Made from rust-proof extruded aluminum, it’s a new low maintenance, customizable system.
Kits come directly from local dealers, and glass infill is available if sourced locally. You can also enhance and customize your client’s deck railing system with third-party lighting.
Here are some other considerations to streamline and protect your deck building project.
Protect your project from water for the long haul Pros know that protecting your project from water can help it last longer. Keep some extra wood preserver on hand to seal cuts made to treated wood.
Space between ledger and mounting material Don’t connect your ledger directly to the supporting structure. Instead, use deck ledger spacers or stainless-steel washers to provide room for water to escape.
Joist tape for rainy climates to prevent rot and corrosion
Use a joist tape like Copper Deck Flashing and Termite Shield from Grip-Rite® to protect hardware and joists. Compatible with all treated lumber, it comes with a life-of-the-deck warranty.
Rental dumpster and skid loader
For big jobs that require teardown, a roll-away dumpster can save time and money in trips to the landfill. And, when you’ve got lots of debris to haul and pier holes to dig, a skid loader can make all the difference.
Whether you’re building your first deck or just your first of the season, these best practices will save you time and money on the job. And partnering with the Grip-Rite® family of fasteners, compressors, and pneumatic tools will make your job easy.
Head on over to our website to see that Grip-Rite® has to offer!
