Deck Tips

Building a deck in your outdoor space gives you more room to entertain and relax. Installing a deck can take time and good carpentry skills. However, with good planning building a ground level deck is something you can do yourself. With a ground level deck, there’s no stairs or stair railings to make.

•  Moisture is a deck’s worst enemy. Protect your new deck with an exterior wood stain, weather sealer or combination of the two. Always allow your deck to dry for 24 to 48 hours after staining or sealing for best results.
• Consider adding an umbrella or overhead to shade a large deck.
• Add lattice screens or fence panels to reduce wind and add privacy.

Be prepared when building a deck:

• Ground-level decks may or may not require a permit. Check your local code requirements.
• Call 811 before you dig. Your utility company will locate and mark any water, gas and power lines in your yard. Avoid digging near any marked lines. Don’t dig within 18 to 24 inches of a marked utility.
• Wear hearing and eye protection when using power tools.
• Wear eye protection when using striking tools.
• Wear a dust mask when cutting lumber and mixing concrete.
• Do not wear gloves when operating power saws.
• Use GFCI-protected power cords when operating corded power tools outdoors.
• Use manufacturer-approved hardware and fasteners for all wood products.

Learning how to build a deck requires a command of basic carpentry and a commitment of time and resources. A deck adds value to your home and helps you enjoy the outdoors in greater comfort. Source