What Are the Different Parts of a Deck Called?

pic of a Composite deck built in fort collins, co

Knowing the different parts of a deck can guide you in understanding how a deck installation works.

A deck has several components that contribute to its strength, capacity, endurance, and safety. The major parts of a deck include the foundation, framing, decking, railing, stairs, drainage system, and hidden fasteners.

If you are curious about what makes an ideal deck, stick around, and learn its essential parts. 

Parts of a Deck

1.  Foundation

Like any other building or house component, a deck should have a solid foundation that holds up the entire structure. Three major parts make up the groundwork of a deck.

1.1   Footing

The footing is the very foundation of your deck. First, it is laid on the excavated portion of the ground. Then, concrete is poured to strengthen and carry the overall structure of the deck. Simply put, the footing acts as the base.

However, before you can plan on how much concrete and how deep the footing should be on the ground, you have to check your local building code and the frost depth requirement in your region or state.  

For a standard 12 X 12 deck, you should aim for at least three footings. But if you’re planning to add stairs, add two more footings for better support.

1.2   Pier

The pier is also made of concrete poured into a column or cardboard tubes. Of course, the number of piers or posts depends on how many footings you have. These posts function to hold up the beams.

Moreover, having sturdy piers or posts not only allows good airflow. But they also ensure that you can perform underboard repairs safely and conveniently.

Hence, enabling smooth maintenance of the deck.

2.      Framing

Once the foundation is laid down, here comes the framing that gives the deck a case structure. The frame includes the beams, joist, ledger, support columns, band board, and post base.

2.1 Ledger

The ledger is connected to the house and usually leveled to the floor of the main home structure.

It is typically made of pure or treated lumber measuring at least 2×8 nominal and attached horizontally to the house’s exterior wall.

The size should be the same as that of the measurement of the joist.

Although the foundation plays a big part in holding up the deck, ensuring that the ledger is fixed tightly on the main building is another vital safety precaution for homeowners. That is why the installation process should comply with the building code.

2.2 Support Columns

The support or structural columns/posts are connected to the pier and hold the beam. The size of the columns depends on the expected capacity of the deck.

Standard sizes for support columns range from 4 feet x 4 inches to 8 feet x 8 inches. 

2.3 Beam

A deck beam is a longitudinal piece of lumber placed on top of the structural columns.

The beams are essential for framing and substructure support. They are typically made of wood or composite materials.

Beams are usually positioned perpendicular to the joists. You can opt for either flush beams or drop beams.

Flush beams are placed at the same level as the joist, which is attached using the joist hangers. If you’re building a smaller deck or one with an atypical form, then flush beams are the way to go.

On the other hand, a drop beam is placed right under the joists. This position provides better weight support for the frame. 

Furthermore, if you choose a drop beam, you can extend and add a cantilever that enhances the deck’s aesthetic.  

2.4 Joist

Joists are planks of pure or treated timber that support the deck boards. They are placed on top or at a similar level as the beams and are positioned parallel to one another.

Likewise, joists often run perpendicular to the house as the deck boards are parallel to the main building.

The distance of the joists depends on the position of the beams and ledger. The local building code dictates that residential decks should have the joists distanced at 12 inches to 16 inches apart when it comes to spacing.

2.5 Rim Joist

The rim joists are lumber that act as the outer joist covering parts of the deck structure. They are connected perpendicular to the joists.

2.6 Header

The header is located on the opposite end of the ledger. It covers and supports the outer side of the joists.

3.      Decking

After the framing is complete, the next step is decking, wherein you install the deck’s flooring.

While this is considered the most exciting part of the deck building process, there are several considerations when choosing the best flooring materials, particularly the deck boards.

3.1 Deck Boards

Deck boards make the surface of the deck that people walk on. Available deck boards come in different species of timber and composite materials made by combining wood components and plastic.

As a rule of thumb, the first thing you have to think about when choosing deck boards is thickness.

The strength of the flooring relies on the foundation, framing, and deck board thickness. This attribute is also influenced by joist spacing.

If the spaces between the joists are too far apart, you may want to consider stronger deck boards for optimum support.

Nonetheless, one of the best decisions you can make is selecting quality deck boards that could last a lifetime. With this choice, you can rely on deck board collections from TimberTech.

4.      Stairs

Putting stairs on your deck is vital, depending on the height of the structure. Naturally, the stairs allow you to go up and down the deck without having to go inside the house.

For deck stairs, the essential components include a tread, riser, and stringer fascia. In some cases, stylish railings are added.

The tread is the part you step on when you ascend or descend.

On the other hand, the riser is positioned vertically to the tread.

The stringer fascia provides the overall support and framework of the stairs and holds the treads.    

5.      Railing

It’s hard not to imagine a high deck without railings.

On the other hand, for houses with low decks, this seems to be a common occurrence.

Nevertheless, adding railings to your deck will not only provide additional safety, but it can also make the structure visually appealing.

5.1 Top Rail/Cap Rail

The horizontal structure at the very top of the rail is called a cap rail or top rail. It provides efficient finishing on the railing system.

Choosing a top rail depends on the overall design of your deck.

Materials for the top rail should be carefully screened. You can opt for a metal or timber top rail.

 If your deck style works well with wood, choose quality lumber to avoid cases of splinters.

Also, you can go for composite materials to keep the beauty of the wood while providing added strength and endurance.  

5.2 Base Rail

The base rail is a horizontal structure attached to the flooring of the deck. It also contains the baluster and keeps the entire structure fixed to the deck perimeter.

5.3 Baluster

The balusters provide the intended barrier of the railing system. They are placed in between the top and base rail with enough space for airflow. 

6.      Drainage System

In some cases, a drainage system may be considered optional. However, it is necessary for decks that store water unintentionally.

Since most decks are made of wood, prolonged exposure to water can cause irreversible damages. Hence, installing a drainage system can be beneficial.

Consult with your contractor if your deck needs to have a draining structure. 

Summary

Deckbuilding need not be complicated if you know the parts and how to install them properly. But if you truly want to get the convenience you deserve, it is still best to hire professional deck builders.If you are located in the Northern Colorado/ Southern Wyoming area, then give us a call today at 970-663-2868 or visit our deck building services page and fill out the contact form to make an appointment to discuss your next home improvement project.

Three Reasons Why Deck Railing Can Be Beneficial and Beautiful

deck

Generally, deck railing is the last part of a deck anyone considers when they’re thinking about or planning to build a new deck onto their home or business. But deck railing in Loveland, CO is one of the most important elements of any deck design. It is crucial for safety, and for making your deck more useful and practical. Deck railing is also highly customizable, allowing you to add a unique touch to your deck’s overall look and feel. In this post, we’re going to explore why deck railing is beneficial, and how it can help make your deck more beautiful overall.

Safety

The most obvious benefit of deck railing has to do with safety—and it provides benefits in this regard in numerous ways. Deck railing can help people balance, giving them something to grip onto in inclement weather. This can also help people with disabilities maintain more of their mobility, guiding their walking as they hold on to the deck railing.

Deck railing in Loveland, CO can also help keep kids, especially toddlers, from being able to slip off your deck. Deck railing can also help people when they’re carrying difficult or heavy loads, giving them something to hold if they feel themselves tipping, or something to rest their load on briefly.

The building codes of deck railing are carefully designed to help keep people from all walks of life totally safe when using your deck.

Practicality

As we mention above, deck railing has numerous practical uses. Deck railing offers a great place, if you’re a business owner, for your customers to leash their dogs before entering your building. Deck railings also offer a great place for customers to mingle and talk, as well as a good place to set down a drink or a bag to have a rest.

The railing also offers important visual cues for designing the layout of your deck furniture. Without the railing, the eyes sort of play tricks on the brain, and the edges of your deck would not get used very often. People would tend to congregate closer to the building, or in the middle of your deck, but with railing, you’re likely to put a lot of your furniture against the railing, and people will be able to spread out more evenly.

Practically, all of this means that your deck, whether residential or commercial, will be able to accommodate more people, and will help them get more satisfactory use of your deck space.

Customizable beauty

There are so many options for deck railing in Loveland, CO, in terms of material, height, width, color and more. Some of our customers like their deck railings to subtly reflect the design of their deck, while others like a nice contrast in color and material to complement each other and call attention to the beauty of each element.

We’ve seen wooden decks with glass deck railing, with metal, with composite and with wood. There are so many options, allowing you to minutely customize the exact look and feel you want for your deck. All in all, though deck railing is often an overlooked railing, it’s one of the most important elements in terms of looks, usefulness and safety.

Learn more about deck railing in Loveland, CO

Since 2005, TNT Home Improvements has been perfecting its craft in Loveland, CO. We are a fully licensed and insured home improvement company, and have built a reputation for doing exceptional work. If you need a new deck or new deck railing, please call 970-663-2868 today for a free estimate!

Click here to learn more about our deck building services.

All About Pressure Washing Wood Decks in Loveland, CO

a pressure washing wand cleaning off a wood deck

Wood decks can be beautiful features that provide space for entertaining, relaxing and spending time with family and friends. Many people enjoy using their decks throughout the year, and these decks often withstand harsh weather and heavy use. A deck that is installed properly and cared for regularly can last for decades. Unfortunately, even the best wood decks in Loveland, CO will eventually become a little worn or dingy as a result of weathering and the accumulation of dirt and debris.

The good news is that you can greatly improve the appearance of your deck by pressure washing your wood. Pressure washing involves the use of pressurized water in order to scour dirt and other imperfections from the surface of decks, siding, sidewalks and more. Consider the benefits that pressure washing can offer you, and learn more about how you can pressure wash your deck safely and effectively.

The benefits of pressure washing

Pressure washing can benefit your home in many ways. One of the most significant benefits is that pressure washing can boost curb appeal. This can make your home more attractive to potential buyers, should you decide to sell it, and it can also make it a more welcoming environment for entertaining guests. Beyond the surface-level benefits of pressure washing, it can actually help to promote the longevity of wood decks in Loveland, CO. Pressure washing scours mold and mildew, which can break down and deteriorate the wood fibers in your deck over time. Here are the steps involved in pressure washing your deck:

  • Get the right equipment: Before you begin pressure washing your deck, you will need to find the right equipment for the job. You can rent a pressure washer and the corresponding attachments from a home supply store. While you’re there, make sure to ask about safe operation and usage tips to ensure that you know as much as possible about the equipment you will be using.
  • Calibrate pressure: You want to use enough pressure that you get a thorough clean, but not so much that you risk damaging your deck. Try setting the pressure to 600psi to start, and then alter it as needed.
  • Start at the right distance: When you first start the pressure washer, keep the wand a couple feet from the deck. Then, once the equipment has started up, keep the nozzle about one foot away from the surface that you are pressure washing.
  • Maintain even motion: You want to wash your deck with the grain of the wood for the best results. Start from your home and work your way outward, maintaining lateral, even sweeping motions.

Whether you currently have a deck or you’re thinking about adding one to your home, you can get the most out of your outdoor space with help from TNT Home Improvements. We specialize in a range of services for your home, including siding, window installation, deck construction and deck cover design for wood decks in Loveland, CO. We have over 10 years of experience, and we continue to deliver outstanding products and services to each of the customers we work with.

Click here to learn more about our deck building services.

How Installing Deck Railing in Loveland, CO Can Improve Your Deck

deck

Every homeowner wants to maximize their space, and investing in outdoor gathering areas is one of the best ways to do just that. Having a deck or patio can greatly increase the space that you have to entertain guests, and it also provides you with a relaxing place to kick back and simply enjoy some sunshine and fresh air.

If you already have a patio or deck, you might be wondering what you can do to improve that outdoor space to make it even more enjoyable to use. Beyond simply staining your deck or purchasing some comfy new outdoor furniture, installing deck railing in Loveland, CO can offer many benefits, both functional and aesthetic:

  • It looks great: Installing a railing around your deck can make a huge difference in the overall appearance of your home. It creates a much more coherent aesthetic, since decks without railing can sometimes look unfinished or incomplete. There are many different materials, stains, colors, textures and types when it comes to deck railing, which means that you can choose something that fits perfectly with the look of your deck and your own style preferences.
  • It provides added safety for your deck: If you frequently have small children, pets, elderly friends or family or people with disabilities over to your home, it’s probably a good idea to implement some added safety measures. Deck railing can prevent falls and protect your loved ones from injury while they are enjoying their time outdoors on your deck or patio. Railing can also make your deck more comfortable for your guests, since it provides them with something to lean against.
  • It allows more opportunities for decoration: You don’t have to reserve decorations for your home’s interior. From stringing white holiday lights to supporting the growth of climbing plants, there are many different opportunities to decorate your patio when you add a deck railing in Loveland, CO. You can also install hardware on your deck railing that you can use to secure lanterns or even flower planters.
  • It increases your home’s curb appeal: Most home improvement projects affect the value of your home to some degree. Having outdoor gathering areas is a big draw for potential homebuyers, and constructing a deck railing can make your home’s outdoor areas that much more appealing to buyers.

Whether your objective is to implement added safety measures in your home or to improve the value of your investment, you can get help with the design and installation of deck railing from TNT Home Improvements. We are an expert provider of home improvement services that are designed to help you better your home’s appearance, safety and value, including the installation of deck railing in Loveland, CO. Our extensive experience has given us the skills necessary to provide an exceptional degree of quality and craftsmanship in everything that we do. If you would like to find out more about the services that we offer or are interested in getting a free estimate from our team, give us a call today!

Six Elements to Consider with Deck Railing in Fort Collins, CO

a deck built in fort collins, co featuring lattice work

Customers who agonize over the wood stain or type of lumber for their deck may barely give deck railing a second thought. However, choosing the railing for your new deck carries elements of complexity that you may not have considered until you reached this stage in deck construction. Here are six elements you must consider when choosing deck railing in Fort Collins, CO:

  • Budget: Your budget for your deck must include the railing. There are many varieties to fit budgets, which makes it likely you will find railing that works with your deck design and does not push you over the edge cost-wise. Custom wood railings are more expensive than vinyl or steel systems that only need mounting. Know what you can spend so you are not disappointed later when your grand vision exceeds your budget.
  • Local codes: The primary purpose of deck railing is safety. Code requirements assure this by placing guidance on railing height. Most railing must be at least 36 inches tall, with no more than four inches of space between posts. These requirements can change each year as new safety precautions take priority.
  • House style/architecture: Railing that is perfect for a modern home will not work on an 1890s Victorian. The challenge here is that many period homes did not originally have deck railing, so it makes it difficult to find material that matches well. That is why our design process is so critical. We can help you discover what works best with your home’s architectural style and period.
  • Sun exposure: If your deck receives heavy sun exposure, we will likely recommend additional treatments so it does not fade. The same consideration is also relevant with deck railing. You do not want to spend time finding a style that matches and fits your budget only for it to fade to nothing by this fall. Glass railing may produce glare in constant full sun or, if your sprinklers reach it, look spotty. There is also the consideration of temperature. Choosing black railing for a deck that receives full exposure all summer long will create a burn hazard on your deck.
  • View: If your home has a view from the deck, you want railing that does not interfere with it. Likewise, if all you see from your deck is the back of another building, there are railing choices that can distract from that. This consideration also addresses the visibility of your deck to the outside world. If you have a hot tub and want privacy, wide balusters and tight railing can provide that.
  • Maintenance: Wood railing looks great on that period home, but you will spend time maintaining it. You will be staining or cleaning it when you would rather be enjoying your deck. If you install glass panels, prepare to know Windex well! However, if you prefer to spend more time at the barbecue and less time maintaining your railings, metal or composites work best.

TNT Home Improvements offers deck design and construction, including deck railing in Fort Collins, CO. Call us today to start planning for your new deck!