How to Build a Deck Above a Covered Patio

Cutaway diagram of deck construction

Patios are a wonderful way to increase the entertaining space of your house. When weather permits, decks allow you to extend the party outdoors and enjoy barbecues, yard games and nature's surroundings. However, if the weather is not cooperating, patios cannot afford these freedoms. Covered patios allow homeowners to continue to enjoy their "outdoor room" even through inclement weather. Building a deck atop a covered patio can add even more room to your outdoor entertaining on those nice days.

Things You'll Need

• Deck planking 6-by-6 inch posts 2-by-6 inch treated lumber Sakrete concrete Plumb line 8-inch lag screws Pre-built wooden stairs 2-by-2 inch slat lumber 2-by-4 inch lumber stain

Instructions

1. Dig footers for your deck posts. Dig 4-foot-deep holes along the perimeter of your patio at the most 8 feet apart from one another. Place one end of the 6-by-6 inch posts in the holes (make sure your posts are at least 12 feet long). Fill with three bags of Sakrete a piece. Fill the hole the rest of the way with water, and use the plumb line to make sure your posts are perpendicular.

2. Make a deck frame by building a "box" of the 2-by-6 inch lumber and then placing cross members in the inside of the box, no more than 2 feet apart. Lay the planking down on the deck frame, and butt the edges of the planking boards tight against one another. Screw the planking down tight.

3. Lift the your completed deck platform up onto the top of the 6-by-6 inch posts and attach securely using the 8-inch lag screws. You can now build a railing by connecting the tops of the deck posts with a 2-by-4 inch board and then installing the 2-by-2 inch slats in between at 6-inch intervals. Now is also a good time to install the pre-built staircase in a location of your liking.

4. Stain the entire deck, including railing, staircase, and deck surface according to the manufacturer's instructions. Let dry at least 24 hours before use.

Tips & Warnings

• While not incredibly conducive to walking, adding a slight slope to your deck surface will go a long way in helping the deck shed rain for the patio beneath it.

• Make sure to install a hand rail on both the deck and the stairway leading to the deck.

Resources

• Lowe's Home Improvement
• Home Depot