Building a deck requires a lot of planning. Choosing the right materials and fasteners makes all the difference. Check out these tips from Grip-Rite(r) to get the job done right.
Building codes and permits help ensure that your deck is safe for people to use. These best practices can also save you time and money. Contact Deck Builders Murfreesboro TN for professional help.
Beams are the structural elements that transfer loads across a building or structure. Specifically, they carry vertical gravitational forces and horizontal loads due to earthquake or wind. They may also be used in tension to resist rafter thrust or in compression to resist column loads. They can be found in structures that include frames, trusses, and even on their own as standalone members. The types of beams you will find in these different structures can vary, but they are all capable of transferring these loads to adjacent structural compression and tensile members or to the footings.
The type of material the beam is made from will determine its internal compressive, tensile, and shear stresses. For instance, steel beams are known to be strong and resistant to bending or deflection. They are the most common choice for construction because they can handle a wide range of load-bearing applications.
There are also composite beams, which combine the properties of two different materials. For example, steel and concrete beams are an excellent combination since they provide the strength and stability of both. This is beneficial because it reduces costs and construction time.
Additionally, these types of beams are efficient for environmental conscious projects. They help with energy efficiency by absorbing sunlight during the day and releasing it at night. This is also beneficial because it lowers the need for mechanical heating and cooling systems.
Beams can be of any length and shape, but they must have the ability to carry loads without buckling or bending. This is important because buckling and bending can lead to the collapse of the entire structure. To prevent these problems, it is necessary to use a design software that can accurately analyze the structural behavior of the beam. SkyCiv is a great tool for this purpose and allows users to get a simplified analysis of their structures in a matter of seconds.
Joists
While most people think about deck boards when it comes to building a deck, the joists in the substructure are just as important. These bits of timber provide the framework that attaches to your deck boards, ensuring the structure doesn’t buckle under pressure. If the joists aren’t up to par, your entire deck might fall apart.
The joists in your deck are usually made of pressure-treated lumber. They’re attached to the ledger board, which connects your deck to the frame of your house. Since they’re close to the ground, the American Wood Protection Association recommends using lumber rated for ground contact.
To strengthen your deck, you can install blocking between joists to reduce bounce and sway. This also helps to distribute weight across multiple joists and prevent excessive stress from building up in individual ones, which can lead to structural damage and deterioration over time.
If you’re in an area with heavy rain or snowfall, taping your joists is another way to protect them from moisture damage. During this process, you cover the exposed areas of your joists with a waterproof tape called joist flashing. This keeps water or ice from penetrating the joists, which can cause warping and rot.
When taping your joists, make sure they’re completely clean and free of sawdust. This will ensure the adhesive strength of the joist tape is maximized, so it can stick to the wood and seal it completely. If you don’t have enough experience with this technique, it may be best to hire a professional to do the work for you. It’s worth the investment to keep your deck intact and safe for years to come.
Framing
A well-constructed deck frame is crucial to the safety and quality of the finished deck. It’s like the skeleton that supports every chair, family member, and fun-filled activity on your outdoor space, so it’s important to get it right. A deck built with framing materials and construction techniques that meet building codes ensures it will remain safe, stable, and durable over time.
Framing materials and layout options vary, from natural woods that resist rot and insects to composite materials that offer durability and low maintenance. However, all framing materials must be able to withstand heavy loads and frequent use over an extended period of time.
The ledger board connects the deck floor to the house, so it’s one of the most essential parts of a deck frame. It transfers half of the deck’s load, so it needs to be securely attached. Proper attachment requires precise measurement and the use of deck fasteners that are resistant to corrosion.
Once the ledger is in place, joists frame the deck floor. They are spaced perpendicular to the ledger and span between it and the deck edges. The joist size, spacing, and span depends on the deck’s psf load rating set by building codes. Higher psf loads require shorter beam spans and additional mid-span support posts to reduce deflection.
Picture framing is a popular layout technique that adds visual appeal and protects cut deck boards from exposure. Installing blocking or additional framing at corners and transitions allows you to properly fasten picture frame boards to the joists, which helps prevent separating or gapping over time. It also reinforces mitered corners so they don’t lose their sharp, neat appearance.
Piers
Piers are the foundation for a deck and can be built in a variety of ways. Footings are a traditional option, consisting of concrete that forms a solid base beneath the deck. Masonry and concrete piers are also popular options. They can be used in a variety of soil conditions.
The type of pier chosen depends on the expected load and ground stability. Engineers analyze site factors like soil type, moisture levels, and foundation damage to determine the appropriate type of pier. They may also run a geotechnical survey of the site to locate suitable soils and identify areas with low bearing capacity.
To avoid sinking, piers are designed to transfer heavy structural loads into stable soil and prevent further damage. The pier’s depth and diameter are important factors in its ability to support the deck. Piers should be installed deeper than the frost line, which varies from region to region. Contact your local building department for more information about the frost line in your area.
Concrete piers and masonry piers are typically used for decks that require a greater level of support. They are constructed by drilling a hole, adding reinforcement, and filling it with concrete. They can be made of a variety of materials, including steel or reinforced concrete.
The most common types of piers are push and helical piers. Push piers are a more traditional foundation option that is drilled into the ground. Helical piers, on the other hand, are screwed into the ground. They are a popular choice because they can be installed more quickly and require less excavation than traditional footings. They are also ideal for rocky or clay soils.
Railing
When homeowners think about a deck, they likely envision days out in the sun and barbecues with family and friends. They might also consider the extra value a well-maintained deck can add to their home if they ever decide to sell it in the future. But what distinguishes a deck from other outdoor structures, like a porch or a lanai? And what does the construction process look like for those interested in adding a deck to their home?
The experts interviewed for this article offer some insight. Erin Kiel, a realtor with Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Destinations, says that while a deck is similar to a porch, it tends to be more purposeful and includes entertainment assets like a grill and seating. In addition, a deck is often more elevated and may include stairs with handrails.
Coleman Cosby, a project manager at Yardzen, explains that decks can be made with a variety of materials, including wood, composite, and even metal. While some woods, such as cedar and redwood, are more commonly used than others, he notes that there is no shortage of options for those looking to invest in a deck.
In terms of the construction process, Cosby points out that the biggest factor in a successful deck is planning ahead and being familiar with local codes and permitting requirements. He also emphasizes the importance of having a good team and using quality tools and materials to ensure a strong foundation for the structure.
A final point that both Kiel and Cosby stress is the importance of properly installing and maintaining a deck to prevent problems down the line, such as mold and mildew. Both recommend having a professional clean the structure regularly to remove any growth and make sure that the surface is slip-resistant.
