How to Build a Deck from Scratch

Building a deck involves planning the design, obtaining permits, setting footings, framing the structure, installing joists and decking boards, then adding railings and stairs.

1. Sketch Your Vision to Code. Measure your space and sketch your deck layout, including dimensions, height, and connection points to your house. Check local building codes for setback requirements, maximum heights without railings, and beam span limits. Most codes require railings for decks 30 inches or higher off the ground.
2. Get Official Approval First. Submit your deck plans to your local building department. Most jurisdictions require permits for decks attached to the house or over 18 inches high. The permit process typically takes 1-3 weeks and costs $50-200 depending on your location.
3. Lay the Ground Work. Use stakes and string to mark your deck corners and footing locations. Footings should be spaced no more than 8 feet apart and extend below your local frost line. Dig holes 3 times wider than your posts and 6 inches deeper than the frost line requirement.
4. Anchor Everything Solid. Pour 6 inches of gravel in each hole for drainage. Mix and pour concrete, leaving 3-4 inches above ground level. Insert galvanized post anchors while concrete is wet, ensuring they're level and properly aligned. Allow concrete to cure for 24-48 hours before proceeding.
5. Raise Your Frame Up. Cut pressure-treated posts to your calculated heights plus 6 inches for trimming. Attach posts to anchors using galvanized bolts. Use a level and temporary braces to keep posts plumb. Mark your final deck height and cut all posts level using a circular saw or reciprocating saw.
6. Bond the House Connection. Mark the ledger board location on your house wall, ensuring it's level and at the correct height. Remove siding where the ledger will attach. Install flashing behind the ledger board, then secure it to the house rim joist using 1/2-inch lag bolts every 16 inches.
7. Square Up the Frame. Cut rim joists to span between the outer posts and attach them with galvanized joist hangers or by toe-nailing. Install the beam that will support the middle joists by notching posts or using beam saddles. Ensure all framing is square by measuring diagonals.
8. Build the Floor Grid. Mark joist locations every 16 inches on center along the ledger board and rim joist. Cut joists to length and install using joist hangers on the ledger side and by toe-nailing into the rim joist. Check that all joists are level and properly spaced.
9. Cover the Frame Fast. Start with the longest, straightest board along the house. Leave a 1/4-inch gap between boards for drainage and expansion. Secure each board with two 2.5-inch deck screws at every joist. Use a chalk line to mark the overhang, then trim all boards with a circular saw.
10. Finish with Safe Railings. Cut railing posts to extend 36-42 inches above the deck surface. Attach posts to rim joists using carriage bolts. Install top and bottom rails between posts, ensuring balusters will be spaced no more than 4 inches apart. Cut and install balusters, securing them with deck screws.
11. Build Safe Stairs Down. Calculate rise and run for your stairs, keeping risers between 4-8 inches and treads at least 10 inches deep. Cut stringers from 2x12 lumber and attach them to the deck frame. Install treads using 2x10 or 2x12 boards, securing with deck screws. Add railings to stairs if they have more than 3 steps.
12. Seal and Celebrate. Sand any rough edges or splinters from railings and decking. Apply deck stain or sealant according to manufacturer instructions. Install any additional features like lighting, built-in seating, or planters. Schedule your final building inspection before using the deck.