# How to Build Deck Girders
The girders for your deck provide the support for the joists of the deck, which in turn support the flooring. The girders typically run parallel to the home and are an essential support element for the deck. Girders are constructed of large pieces of framing lumber attached to the posts of the deck with bolts. Proper girder building involves cutting the girder lumber to the correct size and installing it properly. The stability and strength of the deck is in a large part determined by the girders.
Things You'll Need
- Tape measure
- Circular saw
- Deck girder stock
- Drill
- 3/4-inch hot-dipped galvanized bolts, nuts and washers
- Wrench
Instructions
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1
Cut your deck girder stock to the proper length with a circular saw. Determine the length by adding 3 inches to the length of your deck's ledger boards.
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2
Place two deck girders in position, butted against the posts, with one on each side. Make sure the top edge of the post is even with the top edge of the girder. Drill two holes through each of the girders and post. Make sure the holes are at least 1 1/2 inches in from the edges of the post and are 1/8-inch larger than the diameter of the bolts.
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3
Place the bolts through the holes, with a washer on each side of the bolt. Attach the nuts to the threaded ends of the bolts and tighten the nuts until the girders are securely fastened to the posts.
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1
Exterior Remodeling
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