Deck Plans Free

This step by step woodworking project about deck plans free. Building a small free standing deck is a project that will liven-up the look of your garden, as it has an exquisite look and also a functional role. Plan every step of the project with attention, as you need to keep the costs under control and to prevent costly mistakes. Using a deck blocks is a cheap and durable solution, as the frame need a proper support on the long run.

This project is ideal for any small backyards, as it has compact dimensions and it doesn’t have a massive look. Make sure you invest in high quality lumber that is weather-resistant, as the components will be exposed to moisture and sunlight. Adjust the size and the design of the deck to suit your needs and to match the design of your garden. Check out the rest of the projects for more ideas for your backyard.

Building a garden deck

Building a garden deck

Materials

• 1 – 12 pieces of concrete blocks DECK BLOCKS
• 2 – 2 pieces of 2×8 lumber – 141″, 2 pieces – 144″ RIM JOISTS
  
• 3 – 2 pieces of 2×8 lumber – 141″, 8 pieces – 138″ JOISTS
• 4 – 25 pieces of 1×6 lumber – 144″ BOARDS
• 5 – 4 pieces of 2×2 lumber – 147″ TRIMS

• 12 concrete blocks
• 14 pieces of 2×8 lumber – 12 ft
• 25 pieces of 1×6 lumber – 12 ft
• 4 pieces of 2×2 lumber – 14 ft
• 3 1/2″ screws
• 1 5/8″ screws
• wood stain
• joist hanger
• 1 1/2″ structural screws

Tools

• Hammer, Tape measure, Carpentry square
• Miter saw, Drill machinery, Screwdriver, Sander, Router
• Safety Gloves, Safety Glasses, Respiratory Mask

Time

• One day

Deck Plans Free

Building the deck frame

The first step of the project is to build the joists and to assemble the frame of the ground level deck. As you can easily notice in the image, we recommend you to lay the frame of the deck on concrete blocks. Make sure you lay the deck in a professional level, otherwise it will not support the weight properly. Place the deck blocks on compacted graved before assembling the frame.

Installing the joists into the blocks

As you can see in the free plans, we recommend you to place a spirit level on the joists, in order to check if they are horizontal. Moreover, make sure the corners are right-angled, by using a carpentry square.

Securing the joists to the perimeter beams

After assembling the perimeter joists, you have to attach the rest of the components. Cut the 2×8 beams at the right size, fit them between the frame and lock them into place with metal hangers. Place the joists equally spaced and lock them to the rim joists with galvanized screws. Work with attention, as the frame is the essential component of your garden deck.

Installing the decking boards

The next step of the project is to attach the decking boards. As you can see in the image, you have to lay the 2×4 boards to the framing and lock them into place with 2 1/2″ galvanized screws. Place nails between the slats, in order to get consistent gaps between them (the gaps will enhance the water drainage). Cut the excess with a circular saw and smooth the edges with a sandblock.

Attaching the trims

If you want to enhance the appearance of the small deck, we recommend you to attach 2×2 trims on all sides of the construction. Cut both ends of the trims at 45 degrees and lock them to the slats with finishing nails. Add waterproof glue to the joints, in order to reinforce the bond. Round the exposed edges with a router and a 3/4″ bit.

Deck plans free

Lastly, we recommend you to get the final touches done. Therefore, fill the holes with putty and sand the surface thoroughly, after it gets dry. Check if the components are locked together properly, before attaching the deck bench or a table with several chairs.

PRO TIP: Applying a few coats of paint  or stain will not only enhance the look of the small deck, but it will also protect the wooden components from water damage.

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