How to Build a Deck in Front of a Mobile Home

An attractive deck can add style and extra living space to a mobile home. A freestanding deck will look like it is a part of your home, but still allows for easy relocation of your home if necessary and without adding stress to the wall structure of your mobile home. Check local zoning laws, and contact the mobile home park association to find out about regulations about installing decks and the types of footers allowed.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• 9 4 by 4s
• 4 12-foot 2 by 4s
• 12 6-foot 2-by-4 joists
• 24 deck joist hangers
• 71 12-foot 2-by-4 flooring
• 4-inch electroplated or stainless-steel nails
• 4-inch electroplated or stainless-steel screws

Build a Deck on a Mobile Home

1. Measure the distance from the ground to the lower edge of the doorway. Cut 4-by-4 support posts to length, subtracting 1 inch for footer insertion and 2 inches for floor board. Example: 36-inch (3-foot) distance from ground to bottom of door minus 3 inches for above allowances equals 33-inch support posts. The number of 4 x 4s required will vary according to the deck size, but a standard 12-by-12 foot deck will need nine support posts. Always use treated lumber to prevent weather and termite damage.

2. Set footers every 6 feet around the perimeter of the deck for support. Deck footers do not have to be planted beneath ground level. They are also the preferred method for footers in mobile home parks where digging and permanent decks are not usually allowed.

3. 
    

   Attach 12-foot 2 by 4 at front of deck by nailing it to the 4-by-4 posts.(see diagram).

4. 
    

   Add 12-foot 2 by 4s to the sides and middle of the deck by nailing them to the support posts (see diagram).

5. Hang joist hangers every 2 feet along the side support beams. Screw joist hangers into support beams for a secure setting. Use stainless-steel or electroplated screws for the best weatherproofing.

6. Insert 6-foot 2 by 4s into joist supports, and attach with nails.

7. Lay 12-foot 2 by 4s across top of deck foundation, and attach with nails. Leave a 1/8th inch space between each piece for drainage and to prevent buckling. Create a 1/8th inch space by driving a 16d nail slightly into the support beams between each floor plank (removing after next plank is positioned). Leave a 1-inch space between the final piece of the deck and the side of the mobile home.

8. Stain the deck, and let dry overnight.