Parts of a Deck
- Foundation. Like any other building or house component, a deck should have a solid foundation that holds up the entire structure.
- Framing. Once the foundation is laid down, here comes the framing that gives the deck a case structure.
- Decking.
- Stairs.
- Railing.
- Drainage System.
What are the parts of a deck called?
Parts of a Deck: A Guide to Deck Terminology
- Balusters.
- Balustrade.
- Beams.
- Blocking.
- Bridging.
- Decking.
- Fascia.
- Flashing.
What are the basic elements of a deck?
Components of the Deck
- Footing. – Most decks begin by pouring concrete footings and attaching post anchors.
- Post. – Posts are attached to the footings and hold the support beams up off the ground.
- Beams.
- Joist.
- Ledgers and header joists.
- Deck boards.
- Drainage system.
- Hidden fasteners.
What are the parts of a wooden deck?
Here are 10 crucial deck parts to know before constructing a deck.
- Decking AKA Deck Boards. This is the literal ground beneath your feet, as a deck’s boards lay on top of everything else.
- Footings.
- Posts and Post Anchors.
- Beams.
- Joists and Rim Joists.
- Blocking.
- Railing.
- Balusters and Balustrade.
What are the 5 parts of a deck? – Related Questions
What are the vertical pieces of a deck called?
Posts: Timbers (usually 4x or 6x) set vertically to support the deck framing. Posts are used on all but the shortest decks. The posts can be cut off below the deck surface, or they may rise above the surface to provide support for the railing.
What is the trim around the deck called?
On a deck, fascia refers to the boards used to cover the end cuts and/or rim joists, installed bordering the deck surface (below, left). Just like in home exterior’s applications, fascia “trims” (runs along the perimeter of) an overhanging edge (below, right).
What do you put around the base of a deck?
7 Creative and Functional Deck Skirting Ideas
- Wood Lattice. When you imagine a deck skirt, a wooden lattice is probably the first thing that comes to your mind.
- Solid Wood. Solid wood boards are another popular deck skirting option that’s easy to customize.
- Composite.
- Faux Stone.
- Brick.
- Shrubs and Plants.
- Metal.
What do you put around bottom of deck?
Deck skirting can be an attractive feature that can be added to any low-level deck. You can use boards to construct a wall around the bottom of your deck. Another option is to use wood or vinyl lattice material. Make sure you leave gaps for ventilation to prevent mold from growing under the deck.
Does a deck need beams and joists?
Beams are a crucial part of any deck, so it’s imperative that they’re properly installed. A beam runs across the posts, parallel to the ledger, and supports the joists.
Should deck joists be nailed or screwed?
Decking screws are better than nails when building a deck. Decking screws hold down your decking more securely than nails and will stop your decking from warping. Also, you can easily remove screws for deck maintenance without causing damage.
Can a deck be built without footings?
Building your dream deck without footings
Instead of using footings, adding a level of gravel will give you the drainage aspect you are looking for. You can then add a frame of wood that anchors in concrete blocks that sit in the gravel, creating your new deck.
Do you screw every joist on a deck?
You should use two screws at each point that the deck board crosses a joist to hold the boards firmly in place.
Do deck joists have to be perfectly level?
Look for high/low/uneven joists using a tight string line. Joists must be level and in plane for a flat surface.
Should deck boards be butted together?
Treated wood is often still damp when delivered, so it is recommended to butt deck boards tightly together during installation as they will shrink slightly in width and length as they dry out. This will create acceptable gaps between the boards for water to drain off the surface.
Should I pre drill holes for deck screws?
Pilot holes are necessary to prevent damage to the material and allow the screw to better fit into the material. You could try to drill without pilot holes but depending on your screw size and wood type it will likely split or crack the lumber.
How deep to set deck screws?
What is the best finish for deck screws?
Double-dipped galvanized fasteners are better protected, but you’ll get the best life from coated fasteners made for decks. Stainless steel is costly but one of the best deck fastener materials available. We’ll walk you through all of the deck fastener options, plus provide pros and cons for each material.
Can you use screws instead of nails for deck framing?
Screws are superior for laying down the decking. They hold things flush better and have a better fastener/tensile strength, which keeps boards from popping up over time. However, unless you use more expensive structural screws you need to use nails for structural elements and joists.