How to Build a Deck Without a Ledger Board

Insert a decking screw into each corner of the exterior siding along the side of the wall where you want to build the deck. Drive each screw at the corner of the wall, at the deck height, using a drill.

Measure outward from each screw location to a distance of 9 feet, and mark the spot on the ground with powdered chalk. Drive a wooden stake at each chalk mark using a hammer.

Wind string between the screws and the wooden stakes directly in front. Ensure the string is level before wrapping it around each stake at the desired deck height. Wrap lengths of masking tape around the string at 1 foot, 4 feet and 8 feet.

Dig a post hole at each tape location with a post hole digger. Ensure the holes measure 12 inches wide and 24 inches deep.

Stand a 4-by-4-inch lumber post in each hole and mark the height of the twine along it. Cut each post to the marked line using a saw. Prepare concrete following label directions and stand each cut post in the hole before pouring concrete around it for stability.

Secure an 8-foot 2-by-8 to the outer edge of the posts using 3-inch lag bolts. Prop each post up and level it. Attach the 8-foot 2-by-8 lumber to the posts using clamps.

Insert a 1/2-inch bit into a drill and bore two pilot holes in each 8-foot 2-by-8, in line with the post. Insert a 3-inch lag bolt into each hole, and tighten with a wrench.

Secure 2-by-6 joist hangers along the 8-foot lumber at 16-inch intervals using deck screws. Attach only one side of each hanger, leaving the other free for the joists. Line the hangers in pairs.

Position an 8-foot-long 2-by-6-inch lumber joist in each set of brackets. Lay the joist in place and extend the bracket’s side to attach it. Repeat this process to set one joist per bracket pair.

Position an 8-foot deck board against the house, parallel to the 2-by-8 lumber. Insert a pair of deck screws through each joist and into the deck board. Continue to attach the boards until you cover the deck.