You’ve fastened your tool belt, slipped on your protective goggles, and checked the direction of the wind. It’s a warm, summer day and you’re finally ready to tackle that home improvement project you’ve been dreaming about: a brand-new deck that will allow you to overlook your personal kingdom (or, at least, the back yard.) Now all you need to do is purchase the materials for building a deck.
But before you get started, better make a list of materials for building a deck and check it twice. We’ve provided a basic checklist for you below.
- Plans: Before you drill into a single 2×4 or start strategically mapping out the sweetest spot for your barbecue grill, you’re going to need a gameplan of some kind. This is particularly important if you don’t know your deck posts from your joists. Deck plans often can be obtained from your local home improvement store or via downloadable apps, or consult with a contractor who can help you put a plan together.
- Permits: Be cognizant of any permits or building codes required in your state or This will outline whether your deck requires a railing or other protective measures and will ultimately help you avoid costly fines and failed construction.
- Proper tools: Obviously, there are the tried-and-true essentials for any construction job: a hammer, cordless drill, level, sawhorses, gloves, and plenty of extension cords.
But also consider the following:
- Tape measures
- Chalk line
- Framing squares
- Post hole digger (or similar excavation tools)
- Spade
- Clamps
- Nail gun
- Pry bar
- Pieces: You’ll need plenty of lumber or composite material to fashion your deck’s ledger, beams, posts, and joists. The best material for your deck will ultimately depend on your budget, your location, and the aesthetic you hope to accomplish. Natural wood is a popular choice, as are composite materials and aluminum. Do your due diligence and research the possibilities before you start nailing boards together.
- Protection: A new deck is a significant investment, and one that will provide countless hours of recreation and enjoyment. This expanded living space is something that is well worth protecting from the elements. By diverting moisture and mitigating its potentially damaging effects, DEK Drain® is perhaps one of the most important materials for building a deck. Our system delivers a dry, fully functional space beneath your new deck that can be customized in virtually endless ways. This essentially doubles the use of your deck, while defending against the impact of water damage, extreme temperatures, erosion, pests, mold, and beyond.
Ready to get started? So is DEK Drain. Our proprietary under deck water management systems will help you preserve your deck frame and the space below, paving the way for virtually endless options for storage, relaxation, recreation, and more. Contact us today to request a free consultation.