With the proper tools, materials, and expert guidance, learning how to build a deck might not be so difficult after all. We’ll help you navigate local building codes, acquire permits, choose the best materials, and install the decking. Let’s jump into it.

Planning for a New Deck

The first step of figuring out how to build a deck is actually planning and designing it. You will need the project design to show the permits office and to follow as you’re building. 

When planning the size, make sure you have enough room for outdoor furniture and to move around. Also, think of the size in terms of decking and plan for a deck that won’t leave narrow spaces at the ends.

Your design should also keep railings clear of windows and out-swinging doors. 

Before you can start your home improvement project, you will first need to check with your local building department and homeowners association. You need to enquire about permits and building requirements as your work will likely need to be inspected.

If your deck is higher than 0.6 metres or over 2 feet above grade at any point, the City of Calgary requires you to have a building permit.  

Choosing Decking Materials

The next step in learning how to build a deck is figuring out which materials will work best for you. Your typical top choices are between a wood deck and a composite deck.

Those who choose wood decking often opt for pressure-treated lumber as it can better withstand weather, especially harsh Canadian winters. Keep in mind that many stores deliver pressure-treated lumber wet, which means you’ll have to dry it before staining.

As a more time-saving alternative, you can choose composite decking and vinyl railings. An additional benefit is that there’s less maintenance compared to wood and you can select from a variety of colours. 

How to Build a Deck

With your deck plan in place, and the height of the deck figured out, you can start learning how to build a deck.

Preparing the Ground

First, you will need to properly prep the site before any construction can begin. Measure the site according to your deck design, hammer a peg into each of the four corners, and run a builder’s line from each of the pegs. That will help you visualize the site and that’s where you can begin removing any plants, rocks, or weeds.

During the ground preparation stage, you will also need to choose what surface you’re laying the deck on, opting for one of two options:

• Adding concrete pads for extra stability
• Laying straight onto the ground

Cutting Deck Boards

Both timber and solid composite deck boards are cut the same way and it’s best to follow products based on the scale of your deck project. Use a mitre or chop saw to make lots of cuts or a panel saw for fewer cuts.

Measure and mark the deck board for your desired length and use a combination square to mark an accurate line. If you’re using a mitre saw, position it on a sturdy, flat surface, and clamp it into place. Set the angle you need, and unlock the saw so the board can be placed against the backrest of the saw and clamped.

When you’re cutting a longboard, make sure the board is safely held in place so the timber doesn’t drop, and slowly lower the blade and cut the board.

If you’re using a panel saw, clamp the deck board, face side up, and slowly cut along the line. Don’t go too fast or the cut won’t be as straight as you need it. 

Make sure to apply a protective treatment to any recessed or cut timber before assembling. This is applicable to all timber, including deck boards, joists, and posts.  

Assembling Sub-Frames

Start by doing a dry run of your decking layout. Lay out the joist frame and position the deck boards on top, ensuring you leave expansion gaps (5-8mm along the length, 3mm along the ends for timber, 6mm along the length, and 3 mm along the ends for composite). 

Next, measure and cut your deck frame to size. Make pencil marks on the outer joists where the coach screws will go. Drill countersunk holes at these marks to ensure the screw heads will be flush with the joist surface. Switch to a thinner drill bit to create pilot holes through the recesses into the adjoining joist, guiding the screws and preventing wood splitting.

Once the pilot holes are ready, fit the coach screws using a drill driver or socket and ratchet. Secure each corner individually for ease. After assembling the outer frame, secure the inner joists using the same method. The spacing of inner joists depends on your decking design. For a neat finish, consider painting the tops of the joists black to minimize their visibility through the deck board gaps.

Laying Deck Boards

The final step in learning how to build a deck is laying the deck boards. Begin in one corner of your sub-frame, positioning the first deck board across the inner joists so it runs opposite to them. Ensure the board is flush with the frame and position any end-to-end joins halfway across an inner joist for stability. Mark and cut the board to fit, allowing for a 3mm expansion gap.

Next, secure the first deck board to every joist it covers using two decking screws at each joist intersection. Mark screw locations at least 15mm from the board’s ends and 20mm from its edges. Even though deck screws create their recess, drilling pilot holes is recommended to prevent wood splitting. 

Use a drill bit thinner than the screw’s shank and drill pilot holes into the marked locations, then drive the screws in. This will help prevent splitting when you nail or screw them together.

For the second row, include the relevant expansion gap between boards. Stagger the joins across the deck for strength and a neat finish.

Smooth any cut ends with sandpaper or a sander. Apply an end grain preserver to protect against rot, then finish with a decking stain, oil, or wood paint.

Final Thoughts on How to Build a Deck

As you might have noticed, learning how to build a deck and doing an entire deck build by yourself, including stairs, beams, and railings is no easy feat. It’s time-consuming, requires lots of tools and materials, and can be very technical. Luckily, you have experienced, licensed, and professional deck builders by your side.

To ensure your deck construction goes smoothly, call Upper Deck Construction and Consulting. We can not only build your deck so it’s up to code but also ensure that it blends seamlessly into your outdoor space. 

Serving Calgary and Victoria, Upper Deck Construction and Consulting offers fence and deck building, landscape construction and design, and more. Call today or get an estimate and let us build your dream deck!