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0 of 6 steps completedStep-by-Step Instructions
1 Step 1: Get a permit (mandatory)
Step 1: Get a permit (mandatory)
Most municipalities require permits for decks over 30" tall. Plans + property survey + inspection. ~$100-300 fee.
Warning: Building without permit means problems at home sale, insurance issues if deck causes injury, and tear-down orders from the town.
Apply at city planning office
Stamped drawings, site plan. Inspection at footings + final.
2 Step 2: Pick decking material
Step 2: Pick decking material
Pressure-treated pine: cheap, refinishing required. Cedar: nicer, needs more care. Composite (Trex): expensive but zero maintenance.
Trex Enhance composite
25-year warranty, no painting. ~$4-6 per linear ft.
Pressure-treated pine 2x6
Cheapest. Needs sealing every 2-3 years. ~$1.50-2 per linear ft.
Cedar 2x6
Naturally rot-resistant. Mid-tier. ~$3-5 per linear ft.
3 Step 3: Dig footings + pour concrete
Step 3: Dig footings + pour concrete
Holes below frost line (3-4 ft in cold climates). Sonotube + concrete + post anchor. Foundation of everything.
Sonotubes + Quikrete
Sized to your local frost depth. ~$10/bag of Quikrete, $5/tube.
Rent a post-hole digger
Manual cheap, powered easier. ~$30-60/day rental.
4 Step 4: Build frame (16" on center)
Step 4: Build frame (16" on center)
Ledger board to house. Joists 16" apart. Beams on posts at footings. This is the structural skeleton.
Pressure-treated 2x10 joists
Standard for residential deck. Span tables vary.
5 Step 5: Install decking boards
Step 5: Install decking boards
Composite: hidden fasteners. Wood: top-screw with deck screws. Maintain consistent gap (1/8") between boards.
Deck screws (3")
Specifically deck-rated, weather-resistant. ~$60 per box of 1500.
Camo hidden fastener system
Drives screws at angle from edge. No top-side screws visible. ~$70.
6 Step 6: Add railing (required if over 30")
Step 6: Add railing (required if over 30")
Decks over 30" off ground need railing per code. Match decking material.
Trex composite railing system
Matches Trex decking. ~$30 per linear ft.
Wood railing (cheapest)
Match decking. Spindles + top/bottom rail.
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