Framing a Deck Parallel to a House
Some decks are designed with a joist orientation parallel to the house. This is useful in cases where you do not want to hang framing members from the house wall.
In order to rotate the joist’s typical direction, you will need to install beams that project perpendicularly out from the house. You may need to install a post and footing next to the house or even consider cutting into the house to support the beams, in some cases. Because the joists will be running parallel with the house, you should understand that your decking orientation will be affected.
You will no longer be able to install the decking parallel to the house because the decking must run over the tops of the joists for support. You will need to either install your decking in the opposite direction of the joists or install the decking at a 45-degree angle.
How to Decorate Deck Support Columns
Browse some examples of decorative deck support posts for tall decks.
Beam Span Chart
Learn how to size your deck beam using this easy-to-use span table. Just cross-reference the post spacing and joist length to determine the beam size.
Blocking And Bridging
Learn how to strengthen your deck by adding blocking or bridging material at the mid-span of your joists. Blocking can be used to strengthen guardrails.
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.
Dos & Don'ts for Homeowners to Consider When Building a Deck
Your dream deck can take whatever shape you like. The trick is making it fit your budget and site conditions. While the deck doesn’t have to be built as a rectangle, there could be good reasons for doing just that.
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
Framing a Deck Parallel to a House
Some decks are designed with a joist orientation parallel to the house. This is useful in cases where you do not want to hang framing members from the house wall.
In order to rotate the joist’s typical direction, you will need to install beams that project perpendicularly out from the house. You may need to install a post and footing next to the house or even consider cutting into the house to support the beams, in some cases. Because the joists will be running parallel with the house, you should understand that your decking orientation will be affected.
You will no longer be able to install the decking parallel to the house because the decking must run over the tops of the joists for support. You will need to either install your decking in the opposite direction of the joists or install the decking at a 45-degree angle.
How to Decorate Deck Support Columns
Browse some examples of decorative deck support posts for tall decks.
Supporting Angled Flush Beams
Learn how to support the angled beams of a ground level deck with your support posts.
Comparing Joist Tape
If you want your deck to be safely supported by its substructure for the life of the deck, you can protect your investment with joist tape.
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.
Tile decking
Installing tile over a standard deck frame in an exterior environment is a recipe for trouble.
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.
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