Create a free account and get instant & exclusive access to all that Decks.com has to offer:
 |
1,000+ How-To articles |
|
80+ Free Deck Plans |
|
Deck Planning Calculators |
|
Free & Simple Deck Design Tool |
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.
How to Sister Deck Joists
Learn about how to sister deck joists over a beam for framing a large deck or adding onto an existing deck.
How to Build a Ground Level Deck
Adding a ground level or floating deck to your home may be the perfect addition to your outdoor space. Learn how to build a ground level deck at Decks.com.
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.
6 Best Alternatives to Wooden Decking
While wood decking was previously considered the standard material for building a deck, that’s changed. Homeowners have been exploring and embracing different types of materials, and the availability of alternative decking materials has grown significantly.
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.
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
Create a free account and get instant & exclusive access to all that Decks.com has to offer:
|
1,000+ How-To articles |
|
80+ Free Deck Plans |
|
Deck Planning Calculators |
|
Free & Simple Deck Design Tool |
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 building tools
As with any professional job, having the right tools can make all the difference.
How to Install Deck Post Wraps and Sleeves
Learn how to install trim or post sleeves over your pressure-treated support posts for a cleaner finish and to protect the material from checking.
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.
6 Best Alternatives to Wooden Decking
While wood decking was previously considered the standard material for building a deck, that’s changed. Homeowners have been exploring and embracing different types of materials, and the availability of alternative decking materials has grown significantly.
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.
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