At Portico™ Composite Decking and Railing, a pioneer in composite decking material, we know that the time it takes to complete a deck varies according to the complexity of the design. However, as a leader in composite decking, we make every effort to ensure that deck building with composite decking materials is as efficient as possible. With our materials and deck building tips you will achieve better results in less time and by spending less money.
Preliminary Deck Building Tips:
Building Codes
Once you have established the location and design of your deck, a good deck building tip is to check local building codes, regulations, and zoning restrictions. In some cases, a building permit is required before deck construction can begin. The usual procedure is to submit a drawing of the proposed deck structure to the building inspector in the building department of your town. At this point, any changes to meet local codes and requirements will be indicated and if the plans comply, you will be issued a building permit.
Building Permit
The permit may be good for a limited time, probably not to exceed 3, 6, 9, or 12 months. In addition to the permit, the building inspector may visit your deck site during construction to check the foundation and structure. Another good deck building tip is to make your neighbors aware that you are building a deck. You may need the cooperation of your neighbors, especially if trucks are needed to access the construction site.
Surveying Procedure
Once the deck's location and design has been approved or a permit has been obtained, the deck can be outlined using a simple surveying procedure. Known as the 3-4-5 Rule, first stake a line 4' long parallel to the house wall. One end of the line is stake A, the other is stake B. Then connect a second line to stake A, run it perpendicularly to a point 3' away, and attach the line to stake C. Finally, if the distance between stakes B and C is 5', then the corner is square and you can use stakes and string to complete the outline of your deck. Remember, at this stage accuracy is critical to the success of your project.
Secondary Deck Building Tips:
Digging and Pouring Footings
The next step is to dig and pour the footings. For a sturdy composite deck, it is important to have its feet planted squarely on the ground and bolted to concrete footings that extend down to 6 inches below the frost line or whatever depth your local building code deems appropriate. A good deck-building tip is to check for pipes and power lines prior to digging any holes to avoid expensive damages.
Sizing Joists and Posts
Recommended joist spans vary depending on board spacing. At 16 inches apart, 2x6 joists can span 8 feet, 2x8s can span 10 feet, and 2x10s can span 13 feet. When you increase the spacing to 24 inches, 2x6, 2x8, and 2x10 joists can span 6, 8, and 19 feet respectively.
Determining Deck Patterns
Although composite deck boards are typically installed at right angles to the joists, you can nail or screw down boards diagonally or by doubling up the joists in a herringbone pattern. Whatever composite decking material or deck pattern you decide to use, be sure to leave spaces about the thickness of a nail between the boards.
For more information on deck building with Portico composite decking materials, see our Installation Guidelines.
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