Deck
One person can build an attached ground level 10-foot-by-10-foot wooden deck in a good weekend. The deck is constructed of pressure treated lumber that provides longevity to the deck. Attaching the deck to the house requires a ledger board. The siding will need to be removed from under the ledger board for leveling purposes. Concrete block is used to level and support the front and center of the deck. A deck sitting directly on the ground does not require posts, steps or railings.
Instructions
Preparing the Area
1. Measure out the size of the deck and drive a stake in the ground at each corner. Tie a string 10 inches off the ground and attach it to the stake. Place a line level on the string to level.
2. Tie a second string to the ground level on the stakes. Level the string. Dig a hole by the front two stakes to place a concrete block so the top is level with the ground string line. Place a cement block 4 feet in from each corner block on the front and both sides. Dig a hole and level with the ground line.
3. Remove any grass from the area with a shovel. Place landscaping fabric over the area and secure to the ground.
4. Remove the siding so there is an 11-1/4-inch space between the ground and the bottom of the siding.
Building the Deck
5. Place the 2x10 ledger board against the house with the bottom even with the ground. Attach the 2x10 ledger board to the house using 1/2 inch zinc plated washers and 1/2 inch Zinc plated lag screws.
6. Place the side boards of the deck frame into place. Toe-nail (screw at an angle from the side boards into the ledger board) the deck side frame to the ledger board and side of building. Place the front of the deck frame into place and secure the corners to the side deck frame using 2-1/2 inch deck screws.
7. Attach the joist hangers to the inside of the frame every 16 inches using 1-inch wood screws so the bottom of the joist hanger is 8 inches from the top of the framing board.
8. Insert the 2x8 floor joist into the joist hangers. Secure by toe-nailing (screw at an angle through the joist to the deck frame) using 1-1/2 inch wood screws.
9. Cut the floor decking to the appropriate length. Attach the decking board to the top of the deck frame using wood screws.
Tips Warnings
A water sealant, stain or paint can be placed on the deck once it is completed.
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