How to Create Decking Designs

Deck plans depend on what type of deck you plan on buildng. A wood deck to surround an above ground pool is slightly different than a deck built on a hillside cabin. The plans depend on location, materials, purpose and weather conditions.

Materials:

• Paper 


• Pen or pencil


• Spray paint 


• Measuring tape


• Hand saw or circular saw


• Drill with cross bit


• Wood screws


• 4-by-4 studs 


• 2-by-6 panels for the floor of your deck


• A box of galvonized 16-penny nails


• Post hole digger


• Shovel


• Cement


• Wood sealant


• Weather-proof patio furniture


• Weather-insulated outdoor BBQ

Procedure.

• Measure the desired perimeter below the sliding glass door, the back door or around the pool area that will lead onto the deck.


• Decide how wide you need your deck to be to serve the purpose for building  it. 


• Draw a sketch detailing measurements of distance from the structure or pool. Consider railing to prevent anyone from falling off the edge. Plans can be purchased from any home improvement store, or free plans can be located on line.  


• Include precise distance measurements from the ground to the outer edge of your deck. 


• Consider future grass growth under the deck, ground shifting due to rain, pool splash and summer heat.  


• Cut the wood with the circular saw or hand saw the lengths needed according to your plans.


• Mark the ground with the spray paint.


• Dig the posts using the post hole digger.


• Add cement and the cut studs.


• Build your deck with the wood, nails and wood screws according to the plans.


• Decorate with patio furniture, lounge chairs and BBQ, if desired.