PROJECT BUILD A DECK

Here’s how

STEP 1 If it’s required, demolish any concrete steps or remove concrete from planned garden beds using a hired demolition hammer. Cut concrete using a hired demolition saw.

STEP 2 Set out the deck using stringlines. Make sure ends of the deck are square, and sides parallel to the house. Use the 3-4-5 rule to check for square.

STEP 3 Determine level of deck frame, working from existing back step (about 150-180mm is a comfortable step height). Once you work out the height of your finished deck, deduct thickness of decking board to find top of joist. Draw level line along wall at this point

STEP 4 Mark post positions for bearers along sides of deck and for intermediate bearers between these. For 90 x 45mm bearers, space posts no more than 1m apart. Bearers should be spaced no more than 1.8m apart for 90 x 45mm joists.

STEP 5 Where posts will sit in natural ground, use post hole digger to dig 500mm deep holes for each post.

Sit over-length posts in holes so they meet the stringline and make plumb. Set posts in position using quick-set concrete.

STEP 6 Where posts will sit on concrete, put stirrups on concrete and mark position of fixings through holes in stirrups. Remove stirrups and drill 70mm deep holes at each point with 10mm masonry drill bit. Remove dust from holes.

STEP 7 Reposition stirrups, thread 50mm masonry anchors through washers and tap into drilled holes. Tighten using a socket and ratchet.

STEP 8 Sit overheight posts in stirrups and make plumb. Predrill and screw through stirrups into post using 50mm ba en screws. STEP 9 A ach wall plate to house at joist level drawn on wall in Step 3. Use 100mm masonry anchors.

CLEVER DESIGN Define your dining and relaxing zones with offset deck steps between the two.

STEP 8

STEP 5

STEP 1

STEP 7

STEP 9

STEP 3

STEP 6