How to Build a Back Deck

Check with your local codes department to determine whether you will need a building permit for your back deck. Different municipalities have different requirements depending on the size of your deck and its height above the ground. Ensure that the plans for your back deck are in compliance.

Determine the corners of your deck and drive a wooden stake into each spot. Use a level to ensure the stakes are straight. Determine the appropriate height of your deck and tie string to one corner stake at that height. Run the string around each corner post, using the level to ensure the uniform height. Keep in mind that the location of the string on each post may vary due to the landscape. Measure the length of each stake from the ground to the string and write the measurements down.

Remove the stakes and set concrete deck footings in their place. Cut the 4-by-4-inch posts to the appropriate lengths according to your measurements. Set the 4-by-4-inch posts into the concrete footings. Use a carpenter's level to ensure that the posts are plumb, then toenail the posts to the footings.

Cut your 2-by-10-inch skirtboards to length. Place the long-side skirtboards against the corner posts with 1 1/2 inches extending above the corner posts. Drill two 3/8-inch holes through the skirtboards and corner posts. Insert 3/8-by-6-inch carriage bolts through the holes and secure the skirtboards to the corner posts with washers and nuts.

Cut your 2-by-4-inch ledgers to length. Place the ledgers 1 1/2 inches below the edges of the short-side skirtboards. Attach the ledgers to the skirtboards with 3/8-by-2 1⁄2-inch lag screws. Set the short-side skirtboards in place with the ledgers toward the deck's interior. The skirtboard should extend 1 1/2 inches above the corner and the ledgers should be even with the top of the corner posts. Drill two 3/8-inch holes through the skirtboards and corner posts. Observe the position of lag bolts in the long-side skirtboards so the holes don't interfere with each other. Insert 3/8-by-6-inch carriage bolts through the holes and secure with washers and nuts.

Measure your 2-by-8 joists and cut them to length. Measure your long-side skirtboards on the interior, marking 24-inch centers. Set your joist hangers in place, low enough to allow the top of the joints to rest 1 1/2 inches below the top of the skirtboard. Secure the joist hangers with 1 1⁄4-inch joist hanger nails.

Arrange your decking boards on top of the joists leaving a 1/8-inch gap between the boards. You may need to cut some of the decking boards to provide an alternating pattern. Rearrange the boards until you are satisfied with their appearance. Attach decking boards with 3-inch deck screws.