Design the Deck
4-8 hoursPlan deck size, height, access points, and railing layout. Consider joist span, beam sizing, and ledger attachment to the house. Draw a scaled plan with elevations.
Field context
This workflow is part of 5 niche fields
Deck construction guide with joist span calculations, lumber sizing, footing depth, railing codes, and step-by-step framing and decking installation.
Plan deck size, height, access points, and railing layout. Consider joist span, beam sizing, and ledger attachment to the house. Draw a scaled plan with elevations.
Submit plans to local building department. Verify setback requirements, frost depth for footings, and railing height codes (typically 36 in for residential).
Dig footings below frost line (varies by region: 12–48 inches). Install sonotube forms, pour concrete, and set post anchors. Allow 48 hours minimum cure.
Install ledger board with flashing, set beams on posts, and hang joists with joist hangers. Square the frame diagonally and install blocking between joists.
Start decking from the house outward, maintaining 1/8–1/4 inch gaps between boards. Use two screws per joist crossing, pre-drilling near board ends.
Install posts, top and bottom rails, and balusters per code (baluster spacing max 4 inches). Ensure railing height meets 36-inch minimum for residential decks.
Sand rough spots, apply deck stain or sealer, and schedule final building inspection. Install lighting and furniture after finish fully cures.
Calculate gallons of stain or sealer needed based on deck surface area and coat count.
Estimate lumber board feet for joists, beams, posts, and decking boards.
Calculate total deck surface area for material and stain estimates.
Determine concrete volume for footings based on sonotube diameter and depth.
Maximum joist spans for common deck framing on residential decks.
| Joist Size | 16 in OC | 12 in OC | 24 in OC |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2×6 | 9 ft 11 in | 10 ft 10 in | 8 ft 4 in |
| 2×8 | 12 ft 10 in | 14 ft 1 in | 10 ft 7 in |
| 2×10 | 16 ft 5 in | 18 ft 0 in | 13 ft 5 in |
| 2×12 | 18 ft 11 in | 21 ft 6 in | 15 ft 7 in |
The ledger connection is the most common failure point. Use 1/2-inch lag screws (not nails) spaced 16 inches on center, with flashing above and below.
Composite decking costs 2–3× more upfront but eliminates annual staining. Factor maintenance time over 10 years when deciding.
Install blocking for future pergola or shade sail attachment during framing — retrofitting is much harder after decking is installed.
Apply stain to decking before installing railing balusters — reaching between balusters afterward is tedious and produces uneven coverage.