A rise in outdoor luxury has been a focal point in construction of decks and porches .Decks have become extensions to the main structure and function as an outdoor rooms. There are 2 basic types of decks. Attached and free standing. Both could be a single ,or multi level deck
Attached Decks
attached deck , or elevated deck has a supporting ledger physically attached to the building wall
The principle of construction are similar to construction of the main dwelling. It is supported by post and at least one side is attached to the house.
Free Standing Deck
This deck is an independent structure that is not attached to the building. Another name, Also a grade level deck . This deck is not attached to the house , but can be placed directly next to it. Being low to the ground it does not require railing for safety , although you can add some for appearance sake defining the edge of the deck. This deck also does not require a foundation.
Multi-Level Deck
Simply a deck with more than one level. It can be attached or free standing . on a sloping site The upper of the deck is typically attached to the building , while other levels are freestanding .
Deck Structural Materials
Before you begin building your deck the carpenter,handyman,or contractor must choose the materials suited to the plans . Of all the choices in lumber will be the grade,species and size. Engineered lumber and composites could also be used .
Lumber
Decay/rotting wood is the most major concerned when picking lumber for decks . They are always subject to weather conditions and may not be protected by paint and other coatings . Some woods naturally resist rot , but are more expensive than common treated lumber .
Treated Lumber
Because of Rising construction cost treated lumber has became a GO-TO in place of the more natural species. At one time , the most preservative used for wood was chromated copper arsenate or (CCA). This was the greenish tint you'd see on treated wood. Years ago the EPA ordered production to end although you still could get remaining stock if there is any left .
The most common one used now is Ammoniacal Copper Quaternary Ammonium Compound (ACQ). Lumber treated with Borate preservatives is also available but harder to find.
Choosing Woods For Deck Building
| Western Red Cedar | Highly resistant to warping and weathering . Resist decay but not termite attacks. |
| Douglas Fir Western Larch | heavy ,Strong, and stiff. holds nails well. When pressure treated resist decay and termites. |
| True Fir & Western Hem Lock | Easy to work with , although hemlocks are a bit difficult and shrink. resist decay and termites when pressure treated . |
| Ponderosa Pine | somewhat strong, resist warping. Hold nails well. Resist termites and decay when pressure treated. |
| Red Pine | Strong, resist warping. Hold nails well. Resist termites and decay when pressure treated |
| Southern Yellow Pine | Hard, Very stiff & Strong, resist warping. Hold nails very well. Resist termites and decay when pressure treated |
| Red Wood | famous for durability and resistance to warping & termites .limited in structural strength workable but brittle . |
Decking Materials
Although treated lumber is the traditional use for decking both vinyl and composites have captured part of the market in recent times .
Composite Decking
Is a blend of 30% - 50% plastic with wood fibers or sawdust . Plastics are usually recycled. The compo produces a slip proof and paintable surface.
Vinyl Decking
Deck systems made from extruded or molded vinyl plastics. The deck board are usually hollow with internal reinforcements . If factory treated vinyl resists the effects of ultraviolet rays.
Fasteners & Connectors
- Lag Screws
- Machine Bolts
- Common Nail
- Ring Shank Nail
- Joist Connectors
- Rail To Post Connectors
Deck Planning And Layout
Layout is done most easily using and optical instrument such as a level or transit . After Initial layout It oa always important to check for square. This to consider is a level ground . You may have to remove sod or laying down sheet material to prevent weed growth . Excavating and Installing Piers . As well as providing necessary drainage.
Constructing The Deck
Just like a house a deck is built upward from a solid foundation. Beams and Girders must rest on firm ground , concrete piers,posts resting piers or a ledger solidly attached to a house. Joist are Installed to form the base for the decking surface . Railings,stairs , and other finishing touches are added to round out the deck .
Installing Deck Boards
As a General rule , attach decking perpendicular to joists because sawed lumber is seldom exactly straight . Use either nails or screws as fasteners. For greater holding power always drive nails at an angle . When using screws always drill pilot holes , this avoids splitting the lumber.
Porches
A porch deck is structurally like an open deck ,but it's supporting members must be heavier to provide adequate support for the roof . As a rule porches are narrowe than decks (8' being the norm)
Open Porch
Has no railing. just a deck,roof , and supporting collumn. The height of the deck above ground may be governed by a local code
Semi- enclosed Porch
has either an ornamental balustrade or a low wall enclosure. Some designs allow for removable screens and or storm panels.
Closed Porch
A closed porch is typically framed with studs and sided like the rest of the home . Its more like an extension of the house than a transitional area.