How to Slope a Deck for Water Runoff and Drainage
When decking is installed conventionally, with gaps between adjacent boards, sloping the deck surface is not necessary. Some decking products with limited drainage recommend sloping the deck frame to a 1/4” vertical per 12’ horizontal pitch. This slope is small enough to escape detection by the naked eye, but enough to force water away from the house. In order to do this you will have to trim the structural posts by a small amount to tilt the frame slightly in the proper direction. Your footings will probably sink a little bit too which will add to the slope.
How to Decorate Deck Support Columns
Browse some examples of decorative deck support posts for tall decks.
Deck Bracing
Learn how to install knee bracing in-between your deck support posts to provide extra strength against high winds and to prevent racking forces for tall decks.
How to Angle Corners and Joists
Learn how to frame a deck with angled or clipped 45-degree corners using a cantilever beam.
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 Time to Build a Deck
People often wonder when the best time to build a deck is. Learn why building a deck in winter or fall might be your best bet.
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
How to Slope a Deck for Water Runoff and Drainage
When decking is installed conventionally, with gaps between adjacent boards, sloping the deck surface is not necessary. Some decking products with limited drainage recommend sloping the deck frame to a 1/4” vertical per 12’ horizontal pitch. This slope is small enough to escape detection by the naked eye, but enough to force water away from the house. In order to do this you will have to trim the structural posts by a small amount to tilt the frame slightly in the proper direction. Your footings will probably sink a little bit too which will add to the slope.
How to Decorate Deck Support Columns
Browse some examples of decorative deck support posts for tall decks.
Building A Deck Over An Air Conditioner
Things to consider when building a deck near an air conditioning unit. You may want to relocate the AC unit if possible to avoid some problems.
How to Use Steel Metal Deck Support Posts and Columns
Steel deck posts with base plates can be used as an alternative to wood posts for supporting 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.
How to Demolish & Remove a Deck
At some point, it might become necessary to remove an old deck, due to age or condition. Learn more about what's involved in a deck demolition and removal project.
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.
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