How to Build a Deck on Grass

A deck can function as the outdoor room of a house. It can be a place for elaborate events like parties and dinners or activities as simple as reading a book. Building a deck is something a novice can do, depending on the design of the house. The way the deck is constructed depends on the height and layout of the house. For example, the height of the deck depends greatly on the height of the existing doorframe, as the doorframe of a building is a comparatively hard thing to change. Most houses could be fitted with a deck on top of the existing grass with ease.

Things You'll Need

Tape measure
Wood
Pencil
Ruler
Level
Saw

Nails
Mounting brackets
Hammer
Waterproof sealant
Power sander

Instructions

Instructions
- 1
  Measure the height of the existing door that the deck will adjoin. Decide on the proper width and depth based on likely use. Consider factors like how many people live at this house and how many people might come over to spend time on the deck. Make a drawing that shows the precise dimensions the deck will have.
  
  The easiest deck to construct is one that lays on top of the existing grass. While this structure isn't as strong as a deck that uses dug post holes, and while the grass underneath the deck will die, it is a preferable method for many amateur carpenters.
  
  The design of the deck will depend greatly on the shape of the house. Perhaps it will fit in a corner where two walls of the house meet. Perhaps it will run simply along one side of the house. There are also many decorative choices to be made about the style of railing to use and what color stain best matches the color of the house. Make these choices during the planning stage to make the project run smoothly and avoid unnecessary extra trips to the hardware store.
- 2
  Mark the wood to the proper dimensions using a pencil. Double-check those measurements, holding the wood up to the side of the house to be sure it is the right size. Cut the wood with a saw. Some home improvement stores will cut wood for customers for free, consider asking if this service is available.
  
  Lay boards on edge to create a basic grid upon which you'll later lay the deck planks. Fasten these boards to the side of the house using mounting brackets. Raise the other end of the boards and fasten them to vertical posts, again using mounting brackets. Use a level to make sure these boards are perfectly horizontal.
  
  Lay all of the deck planks on top of the foundation before nailing any of them. Line them up nicely, making sure that all edges are flush and even. Nail them into the foundation boards.
- 3
  Fabricate a railing by measuring and cutting wood to fit. Consider adding adornments like a beveled edge or elaborate carving. Make sure all of the vertical uprights are of the same length to ensure that the rail will be level. Nail them together.
  
  Sand the deck and paint it with the waterproof sealant.

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