Building A Deck
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A deck is a structure made up of many components -- including footings, posts, beams, bracing, joists, decking, ledgers, rim boards, guard posts and rails, and stairs -- all required to be properly connected together. Whether you are a contractor or do-it-yourselfer, the safety, appearance and long-term performance of a deck depends upon the proper design, selection, installation and periodic inspection of all components and their connections.
We recommend downloading the Prescriptive Residential Wood Deck Construction Guide, Design for Code Acceptance 6 (DCA6) from the American Forest & Paper Association's American Wood Council. This prescriptive guide provides code-compliant details for single-level residential wood decks. Decks supporting large concentrated loads, such as hot tubs, are beyond the scope of this guide. The guide also does not address wind or seismic design issues, and does not apply to decks
which will experience snow loads, snow drift loads, or sliding snow loads that exceed
40 pounds per square foot.
There are two main types of decks -- decks supported by a ledger attached to the house, and freestanding decks. Common practice is to attach the deck (or porch) directly to the joist system of the home with a ledger board. Proper installation and detailing of the ledger is critical. A better alternative is to construct a freestanding deck supported on all corners by posts to support vertical loads. The following illustrations are from the Prescriptive Residential Wood Deck Construction Guide:
Components & Deck Framing Plan
The components of a deck include footings, posts, beams, bracing, joists, decking, ledgers, rim boards, guard posts and rails, and stairs.
Connections
Proper connection of all deck components is vital to the long-term performance and safety of a deck. Use recommended corrosion-resistant fasteners and connectors.
Footings & Posts
Footings transfer loads from the deck framing to the ground. Posts support the beams and transfer deck loads to the footings.
Framing Lumber - Beams, Braces & Joists
Framing Lumber is used for the deck's supporting structure. Beams, bracing and joists work together to provide a solid, stable deck platform that safely supports vertical loads and resists lateral (side-to-side) forces.
Joist Span Tables
The Prescriptive Residential Wood Deck Construction Guide includes maximum joist spans for Southern Pine and other common framing wood species, and allows for optional overhangs as illustrated in several joist span figures.
Decking & Stair Treads
Decking and stair treads provide the deck’s walking surfaces. Decking boards must stand up to both foot traffic and weather. Proper planning, material selection and installation will provide an attractive and durable deck surface.
Decking Fasteners
The most common decking fasteners are nails, screws, and hidden fasteners.
Guards & Stair Rails
All decks greater than 30 inches above grade are required to have a guardrail to protect occupants.
Finishing, Maintenance & Inspection
Keep your deck looking and performing like new with a good finish and regular maintenance and inspection.
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