About Wooden Decks

Structural Components

• The structure of a wooden deck is essentially the same regardless of size or shape. Ensure architectural integrity by making sure you choose the highest quality when it comes to posts, beams, joists and the planking used for the actual decking. Each of these individual components work together to adequately support the load.

Ledger Support

• A ledger is part of the structural makeup of a wooden deck that bolts the deck to the house. Cleats upon which all the joists rest or metal hangers for each individual joist provide support. Beams resting on posts support the opposite end of the joist.

Common Species of Untreated Wood

• Three types of wood are most common when building a deck with untreated wood. Redwood, cedar and cypress offer differentiations in color and the ability to handle finishes. Generally, the farther away you live from the wood's natural habitat, the more expensive it will be to use as building material due to transportation and storage costs.

Pressure Treated Wood

• Pressure treated wood is one viable option for use in building a deck. This lumber has been treated with chemical preservatives that act to repel insects and organisms that cause decay. You can gain added protection with the application of a water repellent sealer that helps prevent excessive moisture from compromising the integrity of the wood.

Decking Patterns

• Several different options are available when it comes to the patterns created by your decking planks. The easiest pattern for a DIY job is to lay the boards perpendicular to the joists. You can achieve variations of this basic design by alternating laying boards diagonally across the joists to create a herringbone pattern. The more elaborate the pattern, the more you will have to plot out the directions of the joists before construction.

Shape Options

• A wooden deck is very flexible and versatile when it comes to the overall shape of the completed structure. Simple decks can be rectangular or square. A common, more complex design is a freestanding hexagonal deck. You can also manipulate the wood so that your deck curves across your yard. Wooden decks that feature multiple levels, sunken dining areas, pergolas or gazebos are other options.