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1,000+ How-To articles |
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80+ Free Deck Plans |
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Deck Planning Calculators |
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Free & Simple Deck Design Tool |
Property Lines & Easements
Some properties have drainage, power, gas, cable, telephone or environmental easements that will limit where you can build a deck. This information should be included on your property survey. In some situations, you can apply for a variance or permission from the proper authority, but this may take some time and/or money. If you live near wetlands or a shoreline, there could be restrictions on creating hard surfaces that will increase storm water runoff or disrupt the soil and cause erosion damage. Easements are fairly rare on most properties, but they can exist without the knowledge of the property owners. Sometimes the landscape can provide you with clues like the presence of storm drains in the backyard or the location of electrical power boxes. Your neighbors are probably in the same situation as you, so you may want to check out what they have been allowed to build.
IRC Code Requirements For Decks
Residential properties have certain code requirements that must be met before building a deck known as the IRC. Learn more about IRC building codes for decks at Decks.com!
Residential PSF Deck Requirements
For a residential deck, the code requires it be designed to support a minimum 40-psf live load. Learn more about how much to put on a deck psf at Decks.com.
Permits for Building a Deck: Why You Need One and How to Get It
This is an introduction to design. Start here to get some fresh ideas before designing your dream deck this year.
How to Build a Patio With Stone or Brick Pavers
Installing a patio is a big project. Discover our guide on Decks.com to learn how to build a DIY patio with brick or stone pavers from start to finish.
Deck Roof
We discuss some of the challenges of building a porch roof over an existing deck.
Our Favorite Porch Ideas & Designs for 2022
Looking for inspiration for your porch? Whether it’s a front, back or enclosed porch, we have ideas, designs and photos for you. Get inspired at Decks.com.
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 |
Property Lines & Easements
Some properties have drainage, power, gas, cable, telephone or environmental easements that will limit where you can build a deck. This information should be included on your property survey. In some situations, you can apply for a variance or permission from the proper authority, but this may take some time and/or money. If you live near wetlands or a shoreline, there could be restrictions on creating hard surfaces that will increase storm water runoff or disrupt the soil and cause erosion damage. Easements are fairly rare on most properties, but they can exist without the knowledge of the property owners. Sometimes the landscape can provide you with clues like the presence of storm drains in the backyard or the location of electrical power boxes. Your neighbors are probably in the same situation as you, so you may want to check out what they have been allowed to build.
IRC Code Requirements For Decks
Residential properties have certain code requirements that must be met before building a deck known as the IRC. Learn more about IRC building codes for decks at Decks.com!
Property Lines & Easements
When building a deck, you should know if your property has easements or property line limitations which may limit where you can build. Learn more at Decks.com.
Residential PSF Deck Requirements
For a residential deck, the code requires it be designed to support a minimum 40-psf live load. Learn more about how much to put on a deck psf at Decks.com.
How to Build a Patio With Stone or Brick Pavers
Installing a patio is a big project. Discover our guide on Decks.com to learn how to build a DIY patio with brick or stone pavers from start to finish.
How to Screen in a Porch, Patio or Deck
Screening in your porch will allow your to enjoy your outdoor space year-round. Learn how to install a screen porch and discover screen porch inspiration at Decks.com.
Front Porch Decor Ideas on a Budget
Want to decorate your porch to be welcoming but need to stay within a budget? Explore our budget-friendly ideas for decorating your porch at Decks.com.
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