How to Plan to Build a Deck - Do It Yourself

Building a deck is a great way to add another room to your house. Doing it yourself saves thousands of dollars because you do not need to hire a contractor to do the work. Even though undertaking such a project yourself may seem overwhelming, you can overcome anxiety and doubts by having a basic plan of action in place. If you know how to use a hammer, drill, and circular saw, you can build your own deck.

Instructions

1. Decide where you want your deck to be located and about how big you would like your deck to be. There are many examples of deck sizes and shapes available on the internet and in do-it-yourself books. Understand that larger decks are more expensive than smaller decks because a larger deck requires more material such as lumber, concrete, and hardware. But, do not limit yourself. Looking at samples of completed decks opens your mind to ideas you may not have thought of. Don't neglect to look around your neighborhood to see how decks should AND should not be done.

2. Contact your local city, village, township, or county planning and zoning department and let them know you are planning to build a deck. Ask them to explain the building requirements for a deck. Many local planning and zoning departments have handouts available that detail deck building requirements. Obtain a Deck Building Permit Application so that you can understand what information the local government will need to know before they give you permission to build your deck. You want to initiate contact with the local planning and zoning department early on because building requirements often times will dictate the location and design of your deck. Your deck will need to conform to basic building principles such as setbacks (distance from neighbor's property), number of footings (concrete that supports the deck posts), stairs, railings, etc. Don't hesitate to contact the building inspection department for assistance in design or construction at any point of your project. A deck building permit is typically inexpensive, but often based on the total square footage of your deck.

3. Use software to develop a basic deck plan. Deck planning software is available for purchase, or you can use free software from a do-it-yourself superstore website. Lowes and Home Depot offer free online deck planning software. Free deck planning software also provides you with an estimate of how much material you will need and estimate cost of material.

4. Buy a good step-by-step do-it-yourself deck building book. This is essential. Unless you have experience in building decks, you will not be able to build your deck without a step-by-step guidebook (with tons of pictures). Black and Decker publishes an excellent guidebook to building decks. A guidebook will show you exactly how to build your deck from permit application to final inspection and approval. The guidebook will also show you what tools and materials are usually required for deck construction.

5. Once you decide what size and shape deck you want to build, you will submit a building permit application. You likely will have to draw deck plans according to scale. It is much easier to use deck planning software for permit submission. Although, it is not impossible to draw your own plans to scale. Use a ruler and graph paper.

6. Once you receive your building permit, you are ready to begin construction. Remember to follow the step-by-step guidebook. The guidebook will instruct you in easy to understand manageable steps. Follow the steps and you will be enjoying your deck in no time.

Tips & Warnings

• Do not be overwhelmed by the magnitude of the project. It is a large project. Take it step by step and you will be amazed at your progress.

• Safety is always paramount when using a hammer and power tools. Please follow recommended safety procedures provided by the tool manufacturer.

Resources

• Deck Plans