Building Deck vs Paying Professional

It is not really that hard but you need a decent understanding of how to keep things as square as you can. There are a million little things that most DIY articles just gloss over like adding a membrane to all of your stringers for added longevity. IMO, from what you say your skill level is, have it done.

If you want it to also add value to your home, get it done professionally.

I just helped my son build two large decks at his house. It’s not too bad but it does take two people and certain skill levels. The decks turned out great.

We found a website that has a calculator that will size the the rim joists, joists, and deck planks. There are a few factors that determine this, One deck is just 2’-3’ off the ground so we used 4x4 posts. The other deck is 8’ off the ground and we used 6x6 posts.

If your yard is sloped, a string level and plumb bob is your friend to set foundation locations.

We dug holes for concrete foundations with an anchor bolt at the center of the post location. The anchor bolt was used for a metal stand off that kept the posts 1” off the ground instead of setting the post in the concrete foundation. That will prevent the post from rotting and will also allow for easy replacement of a post if you need to.

We also used double joists at the ends of the deck planks. This will give the ends of the deck planks a full 1 1/2” joist width instead of each end sharing a 1 1/2” joist width.

Don’t leave a gap between deck planks as some recommend. Try to minimize gaps while placing the deck planks since gaps will be created once the treated wood shrinks.

Brush up on the code for railing. The horizontals and verticals have certain spacing requirements.

Use screws...do not use nails.

My son may one day convert one deck into a screen porch. So we used a mesh screen under the deck planks to prevent mosquitoes from coming through the gaps between deck planks.

The one good about biting the bullet to,pay a professional....it will get built quicker than you doing it on weekends. But doing it yourself gives you a certain feeling of satisfaction,

Whatever you have built, do not set the posts in concrete unless you plan on rebuilding the deck in 10 - 15 years. Concrete wicks up moisture and that means any wood set in it will rot at the intersection where it meets air, even ground contact rated. Have footings poured then set the posts with galvanized hardware.

My advice is to pay a pro. Keeping everything square and true and be difficult for a novice.

Also, depending on where you live, there are permits involved with adding on a deck. Insurance is another factor. In order to have it insured, your insurance company may need certain documentation from a licensed builder.

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Dayman

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Fighter of the nightman?

[quote]We found a website that has a calculator that will size the the rim joists, joists, and deck planks[/quote
Can you share this website?

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I don't have any experience with this type of work, or any handy work really given that Im a first time home buyer.

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Which is why you should do it yourself. You're not deciding who's going to build the deck. You're deciding what kind of man you're going to become.