DECKS – DESIGN AND STRUCTURE

  • When it comes to deck design, my top priorities are safety and user-friendliness. I am committed to building a safe and code-compliant deck, but beyond that – I just want it to match your lifestyle and preferences!
    • My deck designs are custom-tailored to each customer’s intended use – whether it’s entertaining, grilling, hot-tubing, or just extra living space. I’ll work with you to define a layout and material selection that’s comfortable, attractive, and cost-effective.
  • Visible elements of a deck like decking and railing are easy to replace if necessary, but deteriorating or non-compliant structure warrants a complete tear-out and reinstallation. I meet – and typically exceed – all code requirements for deck structure to maximize the lifespan of your investment.
    • I exceed all code requirements for joists, beams, and posts.
    • I meet code requirements for all fasteners and structural hardware.
    • I meet or exceed code requirements for thickness of concrete footings like caissons and stair landings.
  • The maximum weight capacity of a deck is determined by a number of design variables, like joist size and spacing; beam size and span; post size and spacing.
  • Depth requirements for caissons vary by region and project, but are generally between 30”-40” Posts must be supported by a footing which meets or exceeds those requirements to prevent heaving or settling. Posts should never be mounted directly to a concrete patio.
  • Ledgers fastened directly to siding can cause serious water damage inside the house framing. Per code, ledgers must be installed behind siding – with flashing to direct water away from the house.
  • Code requires galvanized nails for all structural hangers, and coated screws for all pressure-treated applications.
  • Posts are consistently exposed to moisture at the base and the post/beam connection at the top. It doesn’t hurt to seal posts prior to installation.