One of the ways to enhance your home is by building a deck. You can use the deck for grilling and also for relaxing. The following will show you how to make a deck over concrete.
Required Tools and Materials
Nail gun
Nails
Deck posts
Deck beams
Concrete
Spray paint
Cutting tools
Determine the deck dimensions on the concrete slab. You also have to decide how much it will project over the concrete. Assess where the deck supports are going to be. Ideally there has to be support every four or eight feet.
Step 2
Spray the spots where the corner posts will be set.
Step 3
Measure to a precise position the posts. Create a square (4 x 4 inches) over the concrete.
Step 4
Set the 4 x 4 square bracket on the slab right over the sprayed part. When building a deck, use the 2 inch screws to secure the bracket. The nail gun is the best tool for this job. Perform these steps for all the posts that have to be installed.
Step 5
Get your cutting tool (any saw will do). Chop the deck posts to the right dimensions. Set them in the brackets. Properly set, the bracket sides will be flushed on the post beams. Fasten the beams onto the brackets. You should use wood screws for this task.
Step 6
The final step is to frame the decks. You should use the 6 x 2 inch beams. Connect them to the posts with the ¼ inch bolts. Put the deck boards on the frame.
Tips and Warnings
If you don’t have concrete flooring, you can prepare it. Dig the hole, making the bottom even. Pour the concrete. Fill it up and make it even. Give the concrete 24 to 48 hours to dry. Check the package too for more specific instructions on how to prepare it. This will vary per product.
There are many types of wood available. Choose the best that you can afford. Always wear gloves and eye goggles. The gloves will protect your hands. The goggles will keep the splinters from entering your eyes.
If you can get a hammer gun, use it. This will make it easier to make the deck. Remember the rule builders follow: measure twice and cut once.
When you are building a deck, always take your time. This project is easy for experienced builders, but new ones will need more time. It is best if you do this during the summertime. Rain will make the task more difficult.
