How is a deck constructed?
Typically, a deck is constructed using the following. See Typical Deck Details (PDF): • The deck top is usually 2X4 or 2X6—wood members placed flat and perpendicular to the joists. • The deck top is usually placed on joists, which are 2X6 or larger wood members that are perpendicular to the deck top and are spaced typically no more than 24 inches apart. The size of the joists required is based on the distance or span from support to support. • The joists typically are attached to the house at one end by metal joist hangers attached to a ledger board, which is attached to the house frame. The connection detail must be shown on the drawings. The other end of the joist is usually supported by a beam which is typically a 4X6 or larger (or two 2X6s or larger nailed together). The size of the beam is based on how long the joists are that it supports, and how far apart the posts are that support the beam. • The beam is usually supported by 4X4 or larger posts, which are placed on concrete foo
