When finishing the edges of a deck, you should begin by cutting all decking boards so that the ends are square. This can be done with a circular saw or a hand saw. Next, you should add support joists underneath each edge board.
This will provide a surface to attach the rim joist and deck fascia boards. Once the joists are in place, you can install the rim joists along the inside and outside edges of the deck. You can then start attaching the decking boards to the rim joists.
If the decking wraps around a corner, make sure to use a miter saw to cut boards at a 45-degree angle. Finally, install the decking fascia boards, which should be nailed or screwed down along the entire edge of the deck.
How do you cover the sides of a deck?
Covering the sides of a deck is an important part of ensuring the durability and longevity of the deck. Depending on the desired result. For a simple and low-cost solution, you could use lattice panels or wire mesh, which can be placed in between wooden posts or railing around the perimeter of the deck.
Alternatively, you could install vinyl or composite siding, which will provide a more finished look, as well as greater weather resistance. For a more decorative approach, you could hang curtains or awnings on the sides of the deck to add some visual interest.
Finally, if you are looking for a more permanent solution, you could build a roof or gazebo over the deck, or install a privacy wall for more privacy. Whichever option you choose, make sure to use quality materials that are designed for outdoor use, so that your deck is protected from the elements and looks great for years to come.
How do you edge a wood deck?
Edging a wood deck is a relatively easy process that can help to give your outdoor space an extra finished touch. Here are the basic steps:
1. Begin by using a string trimmer or edger to define the edges of your deck. Start at one corner and work along the edge of your deck until you’ve gone all the way around.
2. Next, use a shovel or edger to dig a shallow border trench around the deck’s perimeter. Make sure the trench is set at the same depth as the existing grass so that the decking will be level with the rest of the yard.
3. Now, fill the trench with soil and compact it so that it can more easily support the deck.
4. Place a strip of landscape edging along the newly-prepared trench. This can be made from metal, plastic, or a composite material and is available in different heights and styles.
5. Finally, use a trowel or edger to firmly press the edging in place and make sure that it is secure.
Once you are finished your deck will have neat and tidy edges that can help keep it looking great for years to come.
What do I need to frame a deck?
In order to properly frame a deck, you will need the following materials:
1. Lumber: You will need treated lumber to form the frame of the deck, as well as joists, beams, posts, stair stringers, and ledgers.
2. Fasteners: Nails and screws should be used to secure all of the components of the frame together. Make sure to use stainless steel or galvanized fasteners in order to prevent rust.
3. Hardware: You will need hangers, angle brackets, and other hardware to provide proper support for all of the frame components.
4. Footings: You may need concrete footings and posts depending on the size of the deck and the type of soil in your area.
5. Flashing: This is important to prevent water from getting into the joints and damaging the frame or causing rot.
6. Deck boards: Composite or treated wood is the most common materials for deck boards.
7. Sealants: You should use sealants to waterproof the deck, help protect it against the elements, and enhance its appearance.
8. Tools: You will need basic tools such as a hammer, circular saw, drill, level, tape measure, and scraping tool.
How much overhang should a deck have?
When constructing a deck, it is important to consider how much overhang, or the extent to which the deck extends beyond the edge of the supporting structure, is necessary for the design. Generally, an overhang of 12 inches (30 cm) or less is recommended to provide adequate stability and support for the structure.
A minimum overhang of 6 inches (15 cm) is typically needed for a railing, which should extend past any stairs to prevent a vertical gap. If a deck extends more than 12 inches (30 cm) beyond the edge of the supporting structure, additional structural support may be required.
This may include additional footings beneath the portion of the deck that overhangs, or structural posts embedded in the deck.
What kind of wood should I use for a deck frame?
The type of wood you should use for a deck frame depends on your climate, budget and the overall look you’re hoping to achieve. In general, a good choice for decks in moist climates is pressure treated lumber.
Pressure-treated wood is wood that has been treated with an additional chemical preservative to make it more resistant to insects, fungus and rot. Pressure treated lumber is usually the most affordable option and is well suited to climates with wet or humid conditions.
For dry climates, cedar and redwood are popular options. Both cedar and redwood are naturally resistant to decay, insect damage and rot, so they require little maintenance and could last for many years.
The main drawback is that these woods tend to cost more than pressure-treated lumber.
If you’re looking for a more modern or industrial look, composite decking is also an option. Composite decking is a combination of wood fibers and plastic that is stronger and more durable than traditional wood decking materials.
It does not require any special maintenance, although it does cost more than other materials.
Ultimately, the best wood for a deck frame will depend on your individual needs. Your local building supply store can provide you with more detailed information on the different types of decking materials available and the specific pros and cons of each.
Can you use decking as edging?
Yes, decking can be used as edging. This is a great way to give your outdoor spaces a cohesive and finished look. Decking boards are available in different widths, lengths and colours, so you can create your desired pattern and style to either wrap around garden beds, paths and other outdoor areas.
Decking boards can also be cut to fit neatly around curved outlines. Decking boards can easily be nailed or screwed into the ground and are offered in various wood or composite materials that are resistant to wear, weather and splintering.
Decking boards will instantly spruce up garden edges and can also add additional height to an area. One of the greatest advantages of using decking boards for edging is the protection from grass, plants and weeds from overgrowing and creating an untidy edge.
What is a deck border?
A deck border is the trim or facade that is installed along the perimeter of a deck. It is typically made of wood, vinyl, composite, or stone, and acts as a barrier to unwanted pests, critters, and rodents, while also providing a polished, aesthetic value to your outdoor space.
Deck borders can also be used to conceal unfinished or exposed wood, or to create interesting patterns or designs. Many homeowners opt to install a deck border because it can provide additional space for growing plants, providing extra space for seating and gathering, helping to shield wind, and it can also be used to add definition and screening to the yard.
Deck borders can range from simple and economical to more decorative and expensive, depending on the desired look and budget.
How do you lay deck boards on a deck that isn’t Square?
When laying deck boards on a deck that isn’t square, the first step would be to measure the deck to determine how out of square it is. From there, the boards should be put down with staggered joints and using a rubber mallet to knock them into place.
It may be necessary to rip the boards to different sizes in some areas to accommodate the angle. A chalk line can be used to mark the cutting lines. After all of the boards are in place, a straightedge should be used to check if they are laying flat and to ensure they are properly secured.
Any warping should be corrected by clamping the boards together until they are completely flat and level. Finally, the joints between the boards should be sealed or caulked to prevent moisture from accumulating, and screws or nails should be used to secure the boards to their framework.
How can I make my under deck look better?
There are a number of ways to make your under deck look better. Here are a few ideas:
1. Paint or stain the wood. This will give the wood a finished look and help protect it from the elements. This is a great way to give your deck an updated look.
2. Install lighting. Lights can be installed around the perimeter of your deck or underneath the deck for a dramatic effect. This will give the area more ambiance and make it safer to use after dark.
3. Add plants. Adding some potted plants, hanging plants, or even some climbing flowers or vines can give your deck a cozy feel and provide a bit of shade while looking beautiful.
4. Add furniture. Furniture such as outdoor chairs and tables can make the area feel inviting and comfortable. Alternatively, a few well placed benches or a hammock can be enough to give the space a lovely, relaxed feel.
5. Install curtains or screens. Installing curtains or screens can provide privacy and shade for your deck, while also making it look more inviting.
By implementing some of these suggestions, you can easily make your under deck look better and make it a favorite spot to hang out and entertain.
Should a deck have skirting?
Yes, it is typically a good idea to have skirting around a deck. Skirting helps to create an attractive visual aesthetic and can also provide protection from a variety of elements. Specifically, skirting can protect the underside of a deck from water damage caused by rain, snow, and standing water.
It can also protect against wind, which can cause the wood to warp or splinter. Additionally, skirting can help to keep pests and animals away from the deck structure. In some cases, skirting may even be a necessary safety feature, as it can prevent children or pets from getting trapped underneath the deck.
What can I put around the bottom of my porch?
One popular choice is to install skirting around the base of the porch. This can be done with a variety of materials including wood, vinyl, metal, or even stone. Skirting can be chosen to match the existing style of the house, or to give more of a custom look.
Another option is lattice—either growing a vine to cover up the lattice or using it as part of a design. For a more unique look, brick or stone pavers can be installed around the base of the porch, framing the space and adding visual interest to the area.
If DIY decorating is more your style, outdoor rugs, potted plants, and wood or metal sculptures can add a great finishing touch.
How do you cover the space between deck and ground?
The best way to cover the space between a deck and the ground is to use lattice skirting. Lattice skirting comes in a variety of heights, sizes and designs, and is easy to install. It is also a great way to provide air circulation to the space, preventing mold and moisture buildup.
Additionally, lattice skirting adds privacy and can be used to hide a deck’s support posts or stairs. You can buy pre-made lattice skirting, or you can create custom-made lattice skirting using wood, plastic, or vinyl material and attaching it to the deck’s support posts.
Another option is to use a deck skirt board, which is a piece of wood or composite material that is installed between the ground and the deck’s support posts, and is usually covered with siding or other materials.
This can provide a more finished look and help keep animals and pests out, as well as providing airflow.
How do I enclose the area under my deck?
Enclosing the area under your deck is a great way to add additional living space and expand your outdoor entertaining area. Depending on your desired end goal, there are a few different approaches you can take to enclosing the area.
The simplest and least expensive option is to build lattice walls. This involves securing pieces of wood lattice (or other material) to the sides of the deck, typically to the railing posts or joist boards.
You can then staple or attach screening material directly to the latticework, giving you a closeable wall that you can use to keep out unwanted pests and debris.
Alternatively, you can also build framed walls and attach them to the sides of your deck. This is a more involved process, but it is often much more durable and customizable. It involves cutting framing material for the walls and then attaching these frames to the sides of the deck.
Once the frames are in place, you can then add siding material—such as wood, metal siding, stone, or brick—as well as insulation and drywall.
Finally, you can also purchase pre-made aluminum screens that can be installed around the deck space to provide complete closure. This is similar to the lattice option, but the metal screens tend to be more durable and provide greater visibility.
This is a great option if you want to keep out adverse weather conditions while still maintaining visibility of your outdoor space.
How do you build a dry space under a deck?
Building a dry space under a deck is a great way to increase the usable area of your outdoor space. To create a dry space underneath your deck, you will need to first create a wooden frame or barrier along the perimeter of the deck using 2x4s or other similar materials.
This frame will provide the vertical support and give you a foundation to build the walls of your dry space. Once the frame is built, you can then attach waterproof barrier material like polyethylene or polyvinyl chloride (PVC) to it, using screws or nails.
Once the waterproof barrier is in place, you can then install a drainage system to ensure that the water remains away from the area beneath the deck. This may include installing a drain pipe under the deck, as well as installing gutter systems around the edges of the deck to ensure that the water drains in a specific direction.
Finally, you will need to ensure that your dry space has proper ventilation to prevent moisture from collecting and mold from forming. This can be done by installing vents on each side of the dry space.
Once all of these steps have been taken, you can then install flooring, walls, and other features to create your desirable dry area beneath your deck.
Does deck skirting need ventilation?
Yes, deck skirting needs ventilation. Proper ventilation underneath the deck skirting helps prevent moisture build-up and allows proper airflow, preventing rot or mold from forming. You should ensure at least a few inches of space between the bottom of the skirting and the ground for proper airflow.
You can also install mesh vents that allow air to flow in and out, or vents along the sides that are angled downward, allowing air to escape and prevent moisture from collecting. Additionally, slats or louvers can be used to increase the amount of ventilation.
If you want to be extra cautious and ensure your deck skirting remains moisture-free, installing a moisture barrier and/or a drainage system can be beneficial as well.
Can I run dryer vent under deck?
No, it is not recommended to run a dryer vent under a deck. Not only can it be a fire hazard, but the heat and lint from the vent can cause severe damage to the deck. Instead, you should try to keep your dryer vent as close to an exterior wall as possible and terminate it so that it is clearly visible and not too close to combustible materials.
Additionally, you should clean your vent regularly to remove lint build-up, and make sure the vent is insulated to prevent fire hazards.
What can I do with off decking cuts?
Off-decking cuts, also known as scrap pieces, are a great way to put those smaller leftover cuts of lumber to use. Here are some creative and useful things you can do with your off cuts:
1. Create a windowsill garden. Any off cuts can be used to make a mini herb garden for your windowsill. Just create a pot for your herbs, then line it with vinyl, and place the cut pieces of wood along the top and sides of the pot to make a frame.
2. Make a fireplace mantle. If you have a fireplace in your house or a wood stove, you can use off cuts to make a mantle. By attaching multiple small cuts of wood together, you can create strips of wood large enough to create a mantle.
3. Create craft projects. Off decking cuts can be used to make all sorts of DIY crafts. For example, use them to create photo frames, wall art, planters, and more.
4. Use them for outdoor furniture repairs. If a piece of outdoor furniture is missing a leg or has a chipped edge, off-decking cuts can provide a quick fix to the problem.
5. Make a table or stool from logs. You can build a beautiful and rustic looking table or stool by combining off cuts of wood and a log.
These are just a few ideas for how to use off decking cuts. With a bit of creativity, you can come up with plenty of other useful and attractive ways to put those pieces of scrap lumber to good use.
Does Trex make trim boards?
Yes, Trex manufactures a range of trim boards as part of its decking materials line-up. Trex composite trim boards are made from 95% recycled material and are designed to be easy to install. They are available in a range of colors to match or complement Trex deck planks and railings.
The boards won’t rot, crack, warp or splinter like wood, and they never need sealing, waterproofing or painting. They are available in two profiles—square edge and grooved edge—that can be used to create custom edges on decks, fascia boards and more.