Deck Building Tools: What You'll Need
Tools for Layout and Measuring
To build a quality deck, you will check constantly to be sure its parts are level, plumb and square. The following deck tools and equipment will help you with precision and more while you build.Tape Measures & Chalk Lines
Framing and Speed Squares
Excavation and General Tools
For excavating, hand tools can usually do the job, though, you may want to hire a landscaper or rent an earth-moving or post hole-digging machine for very large jobs.Shovels
Pipe and Squeeze Clamps
Pry Bars and Wrenches
Tools for Cutting
Building a deck does not call for cuts as precise as those for cabinetry, but your cuts should be very accurate.Circular Saw
Jigsaw
Reciprocating Saw
Knives and Shears
Table Saw
Tools for Fastening
A power nailer works much faster and easier than a hammer, and prevents denting often produced by mishits when hand nailing. Still, a hammer is often used for driving joist-hanger nails and for getting into tight areas. A nail set extends your reach when nailing. A teco nailer, which attaches to an air compressor like a power nailer, can also be used for driving small nails for joist hangers and other hardware.An 18- or 20-volt cordless drill has become one of the most popular fastening tools. An impact driver makes it easier to drive screws and bolts very firmly, and if you plan to install decking with face screws, consider using a speed driver. This tool features a clip you can load with screws in order to drive a lot of them quickly, and has an extender that enables you to do the job while standing up.
Tools for Shaping and Smoothing
Use a router with a roundover bit or a decorative bit to ease sharp edges and creative custom looks. A belt sander is the most powerful sanding tool, but should be used carefully so you don’t dig into the wood. A random orbit sander is also effective at smoothing and removing stains, but is safer to use. A hand sander is also a viable option to get the job done, too.How to Decorate Deck Support Columns
Browse some examples of decorative deck support posts for tall decks.
Building a Balcony Deck
Learn information about balcony decks that use cantilevered joists that attach to house floor truss systems.
How to Install Deck Girder, Cantilever or Drop Beams
Learn about the pros and cons of installing a cantilever, girder or drop beam to support your deck joists. This method allows for a notched post-to-beam connection.
Decking Patterns
Installing your decking at a 45-degree angle is a popular style for decks. This can be done to reduce decking seams or just for appearance.
Best Hidden Fasteners for Decking
Hidden fasteners create a clean deck surface and can be used with composite, wood and other materials. Learn about hidden deck fasteners at Decks.com.
Tile decking
Installing tile over a standard deck frame in an exterior environment is a recipe for trouble.
More Helpful Resources
Explore Articles by Topic

Footings
Information related to installing frost footings for decks

Framing
Learn structural framing methods

Decking
Learn about wood and composite decking materials

Stairs
An in-depth look at the complex issue of how to build stairs

Railings
How to install guardrails and handrails to meet IRC code

Features
An overview on water drainage, benches, planters and lights

Design
The basics of deck design

Planning
Learn about permits and working with contractors

Porches & Patios
Build a covered deck to enjoy all seasons

Ledger
Proper attachment techniques

Care
Maintain your deck to maintain your investment

Materials
An overview on water drainage, benches, planters and lights
Deck Building Tools: What You'll Need
Tools for Layout and Measuring
To build a quality deck, you will check constantly to be sure its parts are level, plumb and square. The following deck tools and equipment will help you with precision and more while you build.Tape Measures & Chalk Lines
Framing and Speed Squares
Excavation and General Tools
For excavating, hand tools can usually do the job, though, you may want to hire a landscaper or rent an earth-moving or post hole-digging machine for very large jobs.Shovels
Pipe and Squeeze Clamps
Pry Bars and Wrenches
Tools for Cutting
Building a deck does not call for cuts as precise as those for cabinetry, but your cuts should be very accurate.Circular Saw
Jigsaw
Reciprocating Saw
Knives and Shears
Table Saw
Tools for Fastening
A power nailer works much faster and easier than a hammer, and prevents denting often produced by mishits when hand nailing. Still, a hammer is often used for driving joist-hanger nails and for getting into tight areas. A nail set extends your reach when nailing. A teco nailer, which attaches to an air compressor like a power nailer, can also be used for driving small nails for joist hangers and other hardware.An 18- or 20-volt cordless drill has become one of the most popular fastening tools. An impact driver makes it easier to drive screws and bolts very firmly, and if you plan to install decking with face screws, consider using a speed driver. This tool features a clip you can load with screws in order to drive a lot of them quickly, and has an extender that enables you to do the job while standing up.
Tools for Shaping and Smoothing
Use a router with a roundover bit or a decorative bit to ease sharp edges and creative custom looks. A belt sander is the most powerful sanding tool, but should be used carefully so you don’t dig into the wood. A random orbit sander is also effective at smoothing and removing stains, but is safer to use. A hand sander is also a viable option to get the job done, too.How to Decorate Deck Support Columns
Browse some examples of decorative deck support posts for tall decks.
Determining Deck Beam Height
Learn how to measure in order to set your posts to properly position your deck beam to the correct height. We recommend sloping your deck to shed water away from the house.
Access to Hot Tub Decks
How will you access the controls of your hot tub on your deck? Make sure you have space to open and operate control panels when designing your deck.
Decking Patterns
Installing your decking at a 45-degree angle is a popular style for decks. This can be done to reduce decking seams or just for appearance.
Introduction to Decking
Spacing between deck boards provides several critical functions, such as drainage & drying. Learn how to space and stagger deck boards at Decks.com.
Tile decking
Installing tile over a standard deck frame in an exterior environment is a recipe for trouble.
Explore Articles by Topic

Footings
Information related to installing frost footings for decks

Framing
Learn structural framing methods

Decking
Learn about wood and composite decking materials

Stairs
An in-depth look at the complex issue of how to build stairs

Railings
How to install guardrails and handrails to meet IRC code

Features
An overview on water drainage, benches, planters and lights

Design
The basics of deck design

Planning
Learn about permits and working with contractors

Porches & Patios
Build a covered deck to enjoy all seasons

Ledger
Proper attachment techniques

Care
Maintain your deck to maintain your investment

Materials
An overview on water drainage, benches, planters and lights