![]() This process either confirms that the design will work as drawn, or brings to light the need for slight modifications. On more complicated builds, I draw the top view of the deck on the ground with marking paint (Figure 1), including all steps, landings, beams, and posts. View the project as a whole and account for every landing and post location to ensure that everything can go where it is designed to go. That gives me a benchmark from which to measure grade changes and to plan stair landings.īe sure to take your time at this point. The top elevation of the deck is determined by the elevation of the door leading out onto it, so I start my thinking at the top. I decide early on which sections of the deck to build first. But in some areas, this service only marks runs from the primary supply to the gas or electric meter secondary lines from the meter to other locations around the house aren't always marked.Īlso, if there are trees and shrubs near the deck perimeter, I always double-check all measurements to be sure landscaping details won't impede my progress. In Ohio, where I work, the state provides a free service (required by law) to locate underground utilities. I start by identifying obstacles I'll have to work around, such as irrigation lines and sprinkler heads, septic systems, phone lines, or buried cables. Identify Potential ObstaclesĪfter a customer approves a design, I plan the sequence of events for the build. With a plan, accurate construction drawings, and the right tools - some store-bought, some handmade - the process goes more smoothly, with considerably less effort. My typical response is "one board at a time." Building decks is not that difficult, if you approach the task with some forethought. But I prefer to avoid the stress and hassles that stem from having employees - especially worrying about cash flow and struggling to maintain a high level of craftsmanship when employees don't care as much about the quality of the finished product as I do.Ĭustomers and peers often ask how I'm able to build decks by myself. I build decks - and I work alone, which does have its challenges.
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