Can I draw my own deck plans?

All you need to make accurate deck plans are a pencil, ruler, and graph paper. Draw your deck to scale on graph paper (typically 1/4″ to the foot). You’ll need at least a site plan, a plan view, and one or two elevations. You also may want to draw detailed plans for complex parts of the deck.

Who can design a deck?

architect
An architect can design the deck to meet your needs, determine how it should attach to the house and land, and give you input on the types of materials that should be used. Following is a look at why hiring an architect to build a deck is a good idea.

How do I plan my decking?

Decking calculator equation

1. Step 1: Calculate the surface area of your decking. Multiple the length (L) of your decking area by the width (W).
2. Step 2: Calculate the coverage of your deck boards. Add the deck board width (W) to the Expansion Gap Length (EGL).
3. Step 3: Calculate the number of boards required.

How much should a 20×20 deck cost?

Cost To Build A Deck By Size

How deep should a deck post be in the ground?

Set footers a minimum of 6” below the frost line for your area to prevent movement during freezing temperatures. Pour about 6 inches of all-purpose gravel into postholes and pack the gravel tight by using the end of a wooden post.

How far apart should deck posts be?

8 feet apart
When building your deck frame, the maximum spacing of Deck Posts for should be no further than 8 feet apart.

How much does it cost to build a deck?

Professional decking companies typically charge between $15 and $35 per square foot to build an average-size deck. That cost varies based on location, size of deck, and materials used. If a building permit is required to add a traditional deck as a permanent structure, the average cost is $500.

How much does a 12×12 deck cost?

Cost To Build A Deck By Size

Do you need an architect to design a deck?

Decks are an outdoor space attached to a house. The difference between decks and other outdoor spaces such as a patio is that decks are often raised/elevated. Architects are always required for the planning of a building.

Can you lay decking on grass?

There are two ways you can lay decking on grass. Use a flat surface (a decking board or tamper is perfect for this) and place a spirit level on top to check the ground is even. If the spirit level indicates the ground is uneven, level it out with extra soil or compact the soil to flatten it out.

How deep should a raised decking post be?

In the corners of the marked area, dig out 700mm deep holes for each of the joist support posts. Ideally the holes need to be about 300mm in diameter at the top and 400mm at the bottom.

What tools do you use for deck building?

Tools for Building Your Deck Circular Saw or Miter Saw. When you’re building something as large as a deck, a hand saw alone just isn’t going to cut it (no pun intended). Jigsaw. For more detailed areas, such as the deck’s staircase railing, a cordless jigsaw will allow you to cut in tight spots with ease. Power Drills. Hardware.

Can I design a deck online?

Designing a deck online takes the guesswork about what your deck will look like after it’s completed. Many online tools have 3-D options, and some will print a list of materials you’ll need to build the deck. Most garden design programs have a deck option. All of the programs listed here are intuitive and easy to use.

What is a deck design?

A deck design is the first step in adding beautiful and functional outdoor space to your home. Whether it is part of a complete landscape plan, home remodel, or new building project, the right deck design will add value and years of enjoyment to a home.

What is a deck designer?

The Deck Designer and related plans are to be used as an educational guide and not to be considered a finalized deck building plan. It is your responsibility to verify the accuracy and compliance with your local building codes and site conditions.