Deck building guides

Maximum deck joist spans for 2x6, 2x8, 2x10 and 2x12 lumber at 12, 16 and 24 inch spacing — straight from the IRC R507.6 deck table.

How to pick a deck beam size from the IRC R507.5 table based on the joist span it carries and how far the beam must reach between posts.

How to work out deck footing diameter from post load and soil bearing, and how deep footings must go below the frost line in your state.

Lay out deck stairs to IRC R311.7 — riser height, tread depth, stringer spacing and the total run you need from your deck height.

When a deck needs a building permit, what the inspector checks, and how to prepare drawings that pass the first time.

Realistic 2026 deck cost ranges by size and material, where the money goes, and how much you save by doing your own framing.

How joist spacing changes your maximum span, decking choice and deck stiffness — and when to use 12, 16 or 24 inch on-center.

How to work out the number of deck footings from your beam size, post spacing and deck width — and why bigger beams mean fewer holes to dig.

Why the ledger is the most important connection on a deck, how to fasten and flash it to code, and when a free-standing deck is the better call.

When to step up from 2x8 to 2x10 deck joists — the span difference, the cost, and how spacing factors in.

How a floating (freestanding) deck differs from an attached deck — no ledger, different footings, and when you can skip the deep frost piers.

Standard 3/16 inch gap between deck boards allows drainage and prevents cupping. Here's how to set the right spacing for wood vs composite decking.

Choosing between ring-shank screws, deck screws, composite screws and hidden fasteners? Here's how each performs on pressure-treated and composite decking.

Residential decks must carry 40 psf live load per the IBC. Here's what that means for framing and how snow load in your region may govern instead.

Deck joists can cantilever past the beam, but the IRC limits that overhang to one quarter of the actual back span. Here's the rule and common examples.

Sealing protects wood decking from moisture, UV and fungal growth. Here's how to clean, sand and apply a deck waterproofing sealer correctly.

Loose boards, rotted posts, corroded fasteners and failed ledger connections are the most frequent deck repairs. Here's how to diagnose and fix each one.

Ledger flashing is the leading cause of deck failures when omitted or installed wrong. Here's the correct IRC and WFCM detail for sealing a deck ledger.

Staining a deck extends its life and restores colour. Here's how to clean, sand and prepare the surface, choose the right stain type and apply it evenly.

Precast deck blocks are faster than poured footings but not right for every project. Here's when you can use them legally and when you need a real footing.

Pressure-treated lumber comes in several retention levels. Here's which grade to use for decking, joists, beams and below-grade posts in ground contact.

An annual inspection and cleaning keeps a wood deck safe and looking good for decades. Here's a room-by-room checklist for spring maintenance.

Wood decking costs less up front; composite costs more but lasts longer and needs less maintenance. Here's a side-by-side comparison to guide your choice.