Build a Deck
Before you build a deck, you should become acquainted with the basics of deck construction and be familiar with a few building codes. This 10x10 deck tutorial is a great place to start.
This 10 x 10 deck tutorial is a seven step process that walks you through the design, framing, footing, decking, railing, stair, and stair railing phases of deck building. It will provide you with the information you need to design and build a deck that will be safe and long-lasting. Click on Deck Design (below) to get started.
Build a Deck - Seven Phases
Building a deck can be very simple to relatively complex, depending on the size, shape and number of levels involved. A simple rectangular deck, where the surface is below 16 inches above the ground, would be an example of a simple inexpensive deck that you could probably build in a day or two. If you add height to it, where railing and stairs are required, you will need to research deck railing designs and how to build deck stairs.
I recently completed the construction of my own 500 square foot cedar deck - check out this article that describes the building process, from design to completion.
When I build a deck, I always start with the deck frame, not the foundation. First, I assemble the frame supported by temporary uprights. This is done so that, once I have the frame assembled, I can adjust it to make sure that it is square and level before securing it permanently in concrete. By the time you read through each of the tutorials, you will have a good idea of how to build a deck.
Get started now! Go to build your own deck for details on how to build a 10 x 10 deck.
For deck design and structural information, check out the Prescriptive Residential Wood Deck Construction Guide, by the American Wood Council.
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