Can I build a deck directly on the ground?
If you are considering a deck installation on grass, this is very possible to do. This type of deck installation is known as a floating deck. While you can install this deck directly on the ground, it’s best to install it either over a bed of gravel or on blocks. This will help keep the wood away from moisture. The blocks can either be concrete blocks or specially made blocks for decks. Usually, no building permit is needed to install a floating deck, but check local ordinances to make sure. If you are considering installing a deck and need home improvement services in Chambersburg, PA, let the experienced team at C & J Roofing LLC. help. Deck installation is just one of the many services we offer. Find out more by calling 717-267-0059.
Does a deck add value to a home?
Deck installation can be a valuable addition to your home. Depending upon whether your deck is wood or composite, you can recoup anywhere between 69% to 75% of the costs in a resale, with wood decks tending to have a higher resale value, although they require more maintenance. Decks are very appealing to millennials, especially, and this generational group is among the growing group of homebuyers in the country. In fact, decks are often considered a must-have in this age group.
What is a good size deck?
When considering a deck installation, choosing the right size will depend on how much space you have available, as well as what your plans for the deck are. If you are planning to entertain often and have large groups over, then a larger deck is appropriate. At a minimum, a good deck should be around 300 to 400 square feet. The longest side of the deck should be proportionate to your home, otherwise, the deck can make your home look smaller. Is a 12×12 deck big enough? A 12×12 deck is generally large enough for moderate entertaining and smaller, more intimate gatherings. It will have plenty of room for furniture as well as a grill and other accessories.
How do you install new decking?
As with any home improvement project, building a deck requires planning, as well as the right tools and materials. Here are some tips to get started on a deck.
- Check with building and permitting officials. Some decks require building permits, others do not.
- Plan the deck’s dimensions. First, you’ll measure your yard’s space so you know how much room you have, especially if you ever want to expand. You’ll then measure out the deck’s dimensions and mark it out where the support posts or caissons will go with spray paint and orange flags.
- Bore 15-inch holes at the marked positions after removing strings and stakes used to denote dimensions.
- Set forms around the holes for concrete. The concrete is mixed and shoveled into the holes and a J-bolt is embedded in each caisson before the concrete sets.
- The deck frame is then started by adding perimeter and center boards.
- The main boards are then placed, with perimeter boards set onto anchor plates installed on the caissons. The main boards are secured by nailing corner brackets on.
- The frame is then finished out with treated joists.
- The decking material is then added. It’s attached to the joists with decking screws. A ¼-inch gap is left between boards.
- To complete the deck, the anchor brackets are bolted to the caisson and nails are driven through the perimeter.
Anytime you need help with deck installation and repair, make sure to call in professionals like those at C & J Roofing LLC..
Installing deck guardrail posts
When it comes to deck installation, guardrail posts are essential for safety. On many older decks, the posts were installed outside of the deck framing. These days, current building codes stipulate that posts go on the inside, though you should check with your building department to find out what is up to code in your area. You can check on all requirements for building the deck with the building department, including how many bolts are needed to firmly secure the posts. These posts need to be installed before the decking. Usually, when dealing with wood railing posts, they’ll be 4x4s between 36 to 42 inches tall. They can be left bare or covered with composite or PVC sleeves. Most building codes also stipulate the posts can be no more than six feet apart.
Deck installation near me
Are you planning to have a deck built? If so, you’ll want experienced professionals to do the job. For deck installation in Chambersburg, PA, you can find those experienced professionals at C & J Roofing LLC.. We are experts when it comes to home improvement and offer plenty of solutions to fit your needs. Learn more about our team or schedule a service appointment and get an estimate by calling 717-267-0059.
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