Table Of ContentThe Complete Guide to
DECKS
Updated 5th Edition
Plan & Build Your Dream Deck
Includes Complete Deck Plans
Contents
The Complete Guide to Decks
Introduction
Gallery of Inspiring Decks
Deck Planning & Design
Evaluating Your Site
Deck Building Codes
Determining Lumber Size
Understanding Loads
Developing Your Deck Plan
Working with Building Inspectors
Deck Materials & Tools
Footings & Structural Lumber
Wood Decking
Non-wood Decking
Fasteners & Hardware
Metal Connecting Hardware
Screws & Nails
Flashing
Footings
Specialty Tools
HOW TO BUILD A DECK
Structural Support
Installing a Ledger
Locating Post Footings
Digging & Pouring Footings
Installing Posts
Installing Beams
Hanging Joists
Framing Low-profile Decks
Framing Multi-level Decks
Framing Decks on Steep Slopes
Working with Angles
Creating Curves
Framing for Insets
Decking
Decking Patterns
Laying Decking
Stairs
Building Stairs
Building Stairs with Landings
Deck Railings
Deck Railing Basics
Curved Railings
Composite Railing Systems
Glass-panel Railings
Steel Cable Railings
Copper Tube Railings
Deck Accessories
Deck Planters
Privacy Screen
Deck Benches
Deck Skirting
Finishing & Maintaining Your Deck
Cleaning, Sealing & Coloring a Wood Deck
Finishing a New Wood Deck
Maintaining a Deck
Repairing a Deck
Cleaning Vinyl & Composite Decking
CUSTOM DECK PROJECTS
A Deck for Entertaining
A Deck for Livability
A Deck with Power
Under-deck Enclosure
Runoff Gutters
Spa Tub Deck
Boardwalk Deck on a Slab
Floating Octagon Island Deck
Ground Level Walkout Deck
Second-story Walkout Deck
Inside Corner Deck
Wraparound Deck
Angled Deck
Square Platform Deck
Multi-level Deck
Casual Curve Deck
Deckbuilding Glossary
Reference Charts
Acknowledgments/Resources
Photo Credits
Index
Introduction
The right deck can transform your yard, home, and life. It can extend your usable living space outside, provide a platform for relaxation,
cooking, socializing, and much, much more. A deck can also add to your home’s value for a relatively small investment—especially when
you build it yourself.
Building a deck may seem like a daunting project, but it is really quite manageable if you have knowledge and guidance at your
fingertips. That’s where The Complete Guide to Decks comes in. This new edition of one of the bestselling deck books ever has been
revised and updated with crucial new information, including changes to construction techniques, materials, and building codes. This
version offers all the information you’ll need to quickly and safely build the deck of your dreams.
Start with the gallery section that, along with photos throughout the book, will inspire you with examples of stunning decks of all sizes.
These ideas set the stage for the essential sections on planning and design. There, we’ll walk you step-by-step through the process of
assessing your site and designing your deck. You’ll learn about building codes and best practices that affect deck construction. We’ll
show you how to draft plan drawings that will be accepted by your local building department. You’ll learn about all the fundamental
techniques, tools, and materials that together form the art of deck-building.
Once we’ve covered the basics, we provide you with an in-depth, blow-by-blow guide to the entire deck construction process. Each
chapter in the How to Build a Deck section focuses on an essential stage in the process, covering such topics as: building a sturdy
foundation and structural support system; laying decking; constructing stairs and railings; installing lighting; and applying the perfect deck
finish.
The last section of the book includes actual working plans, illustrations, and step-by-step instructions for a variety of decks. You can
build any of these exactly as shown, or adapt a plan, modifying it to suit your own circumstances. You’ll also find instructions and
background information for adding any of a number of luxuries such as a spa tub, outdoor kitchen, seating, or a privacy screen.
Combine the comprehensive information in this book with a bit of time and work on your part (and maybe help from a friend or two),
and you’ll experience the overwhelming satisfaction that comes from building a spectacular deck. When you’re done, you’ll understand
exactly why The Complete Guide to Decks is the deck-building manual for do-it-yourselfers and pros alike.
Gallery of Inspiring Decks
Like any major home improvement project, a deck should be designed to suit your family’s lifestyle while it improves the value and
beauty of your home. Realistically, you should build your deck with a budget in mind. But a budget doesn’t have to squelch your freedom
to dream about that ideal new outdoor space. As you begin to plan your project, let your imagination inspire its design. A deck doesn’t
have to be boring, even if you are a novice do-it-yourselfer or are working with limited finances. A curved metal railing, some attractive
lighting, or common decking laid in an eye-catching geometric pattern can transform what might otherwise look like a boat dock on stilts
into a compelling feature of your yard and neighborhood.
The following gallery of stunning decks is intended to help you explore the possibilities of what your deck could be. Granted, the
bigger the deck the more it will cost, but even a small deck that doesn’t suit your needs is an expensive investment if you never use it. So,
whatever your budget may be, let these images serve as a way to gather ideas. Who knows... one small aspect of an elegant design could
be just the key to unlocking the perfect deck plan for your home. Now is your chance to let any and all ideas be fair game.
Multi-level Decks
A basic, linear design such as this can make planning and building the complicated structure of multi-level decks far easier and quicker. Pressure-treated pine, as used throughout this
deck, keeps costs to a minimum and ensures the longevity of the deck.
Multi-level deck designs are ideal for making the most of a slope. The redwood used in this deck is a traditional choice because the wood’s appearance fits perfectly into the
naturalistic surroundings, and it is inherently rot-resistant.
A multi-level deck can be a significant commitment in time, effort, and expense. Planning is crucial to ensure the deck is as usable as possible; make sure you know what activity each
level of deck will accommodate. The layout should be logical. Here, cooking is done nearest the kitchen, with a social area down one platform. A hot tub is positioned underneath to keep
it level with the pool.
