Deck Builder Directory

Building a wood deck can be done by the handy type home owner. There are several factors to consider when deciding if you should take on this project or bring a contractor into the picture. Buy a book or two on deck building at your local home improvement store. Another great place for ideas, is the internet…you can find several pictures to help you decide what to build. Then you need to decide what type of function you want to use it for. Another thing to think about is the height… very low to the round decks can usually be built without without having to get a permit (check with your local building department on requirements, do not assume). Even if you do have to pull permits, a home owner can legally do the work themselves but you will be held to all requirements/regulations that a contractor does , ie. submit plans and have everything inspected (but again check with your local building/planning departments, they are there to help.)

No that your ready, following your plans, mark out your footings and dig them. Fill them with the appropriate type cement (again, check you resources if in doubt) and install brackets. I like using Simpson type brackets. Very strong and you can buy them to almost accommodate anything your trying to build. I also highly recommend using pressure treated lumber for the frame ( helps keep the bugs out and doesn’t really cost very much more. The rest of the deck, flooring and hand rails can be built with other types of wood and just stained or sealed. I also recommend using screws in place of nails for the deck, their much stronger than nails. Still use nails for the brackets (the bracket will tell you what type of nails to use).

Now that you have the wood, you can set the post and attached the appropriate brackets/nails/screws and build your deck.

Thanks and best of luck with your project.

For more info, you can contact me at http://www.oceansidehandyman.net

Author: Mark Wandler

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Mark_Wandler