How to Use Decking for Front Entries

Leave spaces between boards to allow for shrinking.

Decking at front entries is used where the warmth of wood contributes to the aesthetic appearance of the house, or as a contrasting material to concrete or brick. Decking has a rustic appeal, but can also be finished with more modern and crafted details to suit certain architectural styles. Setting the decking flush with the doorway strengthens the connection between the indoors and outdoors.

Things You'll Need

• Shovel or mini-excavator (optional)
• Concrete for piers (optional)
• Concrete pads (optional)
• Posts, 4- or 6- inch square, pressure-treated
• Spruce, pine or fir framing wood, to dimensions required for deck structural design
• Pressure-treated cedar or redwood decking
• Deck screws or bolts, corrosion-resistant, stainless or hot-dipped galvanized steel
• Power drill
• Drill bits, assorted sizes
• Countersink bits, assorted sizes

Instructions

1. Plan for the decking to meet the level of the sill plate at the front entry. Where the front entry is elevated above the ground, use a series of platform decks instead of a stairway.

2. Install the ledger boards, using straight, knot-free material, at an elevation that leaves the surface decking at the planned level. Excavate to the required depth for the piers, or place concrete pads. Space the piers or pads according to the specified spacing for posts.

3. Place posts, if required, or place beams directly on the pier or pad for a low-level deck. Restore the surface grade while it's accessible, ensuring the ground slopes away from the foundation.

4. Prepare the joists to support a single-level deck, or multiple platforms. Double the joists on all four sides of the frame, in a manner that suits the fascia style.

5. Orient the joists to allow for the decking to be laid perpendicular -- at a right angle -- to foot traffic at prominent locations, such as the entry. Change the direction of the decking at different levels, if it's appropriate for the design and house architecture.

6. Allow for a consistent space between the boards, including butt ends of decking boards. Lay the deck boards out before fastening them, using a scrap of wood or nail as a spacer. Choose the straightest piece of full-length wood for the first board to be fastened.

7. Fasten the decking to the joists with screws or bolts, starting at the entry. Countersink the fasteners, using the countersink bit. Check the spacing of the deck boards regularly, adjusting as necessary to avoid ripping the last decking board to fit the edge.

8. Add the fascia boards in the desired style. Treat the decking with the recommended stain or paint.

Tips & Warnings

• Check with local building officials about building codes before starting the work.

• Deck boards often are available with a radius -- rounded -- edge, that adds a finished appearance to the work.

• Cut the deck boards to width after they're fastened. Snap a chalk line and cut them all at once with a circular saw.

• Avoid different widths of deck boards. The variation appears three-dimensional in low light, making physically-challenged and seniors feel insecure about their footing.

• Allow for a generous width and length for decking where it intersects the doorway.

• Design steps or different levels carefully to ensure safety and prevent falls.

• Be rigorous about waterproofing measures to preserve the wood and avoid moisture problems near the foundation.

Resources

• Sunset: Tour a Welcoming Front Yard Deck