How to Build a Timber Deck

A Timber Decking makes a nice addition to any back yard. Although building one makes for a challenging project, anyone with an intrepid do-it-yourself" attitude and enough patience can tackle it. Most of the tools and materials are ordinary and won't bust a budget. This guide can be scaled up or down for any sized deck.

Take measurements of the area in which you would like to build the deck. Use the pen and paper to draw out a plan of the deck.

Stake out a square using the stakes and twine.

Prepare the ground by it digging it out to about 2 or 3 inches deep, and about 2 or 3 inches wider than the perimeter of the planned deck.

Set up your headboard. Estimate the height of the deck, and then drill the appropriate number of holes in the wall, measure and drill holes into the headboard, and then attach the headboard to the wall using masonry screws and washers.

Set the posts. The holes for these should be between 18 inches and 36 inches in depth, depending on how much weight the deck might have to support. A big deck should be deeper, and a small one can be shallower. Use the shovel and post-hole digger to dig the holes, and then the shovel and tamping rod to set the posts. Check the post with the level to make sure it is vertically level.

Nail in the beams to form the square/rectangle, but double check to make sure the height is correct and the headboard can be reached.

Fasten the joists to the structure with hangers.

Use ridge planks to support the joists.

Nail on the deck boards.

Related Post: Can I Build a Timber Deck Over a Concrete Patio?