Planning a Deck

A deck is the perfect place to relax with friends, flip through a magazine, and sip a cup of morning coffee. If you want to build your own deck, the initial step is to plan ahead, before you break out the tool belt.

Components of a deck

Part of the planning process includes understanding the basic structure of a deck. A deck is more than just a large surface area for standing – it actually consists of many layers of construction designed for durability and safety.

Foundation. This is the part of the deck that holds up the structure and keeps it tied to the ground. Depending on your climate and deck size, the foundation may vary in size and how it is put together, although it's usually made of concrete piers. A good foundation will provide enough strength to safely transfer load from the deck to the earth below it.

Posts. Present on all decks (except for very short ones), posts will determine the height of your deck. 4x4 posts are the most common, and may be cut off just below the surface of the deck or continue upwards to act as support for the railing or an overhead structure. The posts rest on top of the concrete piers.

Beams. Make up the horizontal structure of the deck. Beams are attached to posts and also connect the frame of the deck to your house's foundation (this type of beam is called a ledger).

Joists. A series of boards across the distance from beam to beam or beam to ledger.

Skirt. Also called a fascia board, this hides the edges of the joists. Deck boards comprise the surface layer of the deck.

Stairs. The part of the stair you step on is called the tread. These are connected to stringers (the boards that go from the surface of the deck to the ground). Risers fill in the space between treads, although they are not usually present on deck stairs.

Deck configuration

The planning process involves determining the design of your deck as well. Consider what you will be using the deck for, and how you want it to complement your home. For most people, the standard rectangular deck off the kitchen or family room is the right solution; for others, a more dramatic design may be more appropriate.

A popular deck design is one that wraps around several sides of the house. Another option is to construct a deck that rises two or more levels, offering the utmost in versatility.

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