How do you build a deck?

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Footing: Decks are similar to other building projects and always start with a solid foundation / footing. When excavating deck footings the depth depends on the frost line and will be dictated by a New Jersey local building code. The frost line is the depth at which the moisture present in the soil may freeze in extreme winter weather.  Once your footings are buried below the frost line the ground will act as a barrier to insulate the soil below the footing from the freeze thaw cycle.

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Framing: Exterior decks are most often framed with pressure treated southern yellow pine lumber. The treating process makes the structural framing members such as beams, floor joists and posts immune to both the rotting of the wood and insect infestation.  With G&C as your deck contractor you can be assured that all of your exterior fasteners such as bolts, screws, nails and other hardware will be galvanized or stainless steel. Low maintenance composite decking is also available. It is offered in a wide variety of colors, profiles textures and in many cases is manufactured from all or partially recycled materials. This is an excellent product selection for homeowners wanting to contribute to the green movement and sustainable housing.  Most composite decking products are covered by extensive warranties.

  

Decking: The walking surface of your deck is where the creative fun starts. Many homeowners choose to stick with the treated yellow pine decking. This offers them the option of letting the wood weather naturally to a silver grey or altering the appearance to their taste with a solid or semi transparent stain. Cedar and mahogany are also excellent choices for exterior applications when real wood is the preferred decking material.

 

Railing and Balusters: Deck Rails provide the perfect opportunity to express some style and personality in your deck design. Over the last 20 years a variety of new railing options have been developed. With maintenance free PVC railing available in many profiles and several color options, it is quickly becoming the industry standard. Homeowners can personalize and enhance the architectural look and feel of their deck in unlimited ways. G&C has installed many of the top national brands and is able to offer knowledgeable input and design services as needed.

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Stairs: Stair and step building is the most complicated process for any deck building contractor. Gerry Smith of G&C is a master craftsman with years of stair building experience. He is familiar with and adheres to the extensive New Jersey building codes covering stairways such as those described below. When building stairs for New Jersey homeowners the IRC building requirements are the usual code standard. The minimum width for stairs is 36”, but 48” is recommended wherever possible. The maximum riser height is 7-3/4” and the minimum recommended rise is 4”. The minimum stair tread depth should be measured at no less than 10”. Open risers are permitted by code with a catch because they may not be large enough to permit the passage of a 4” sphere the same as rail infill rules.  In most cases it looks nicer and is just plain easier to close the risers. You must maintain a minimum 6'-8" headroom clearance and provide stairway illumination at the top landing. Stair stringers should be cut from 2×12 pressure treated lumber and spaced no greater than 16" O.C.

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Deck / Patio Lighting: Your deck can be the setting for many relaxing evenings. The key is to add lighting that casts a nice glow over sitting areas, highlights features and illuminates steps and walks.  Low voltage lighting systems do this well and come in a great variety of sizes, shapes and styles.  The low voltage transformer that powers most deck lighting systems is save and very energy effecient.  Solar powered deck lighting products are also available. To decide on which light fixtures to use G&C Home Improvements will draw a rough plan of your deck noting the following key lighting areas: stairs, sitting and congregating areas, railings and traffic paths.

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Deck Design Service: G&C Home Improvements works one on one with clients to create professional deck design and deck plans to your specifications. This is a great service for homeowners who want to be involved in the custom design of their deck. You will receive a, permit ready framing plan and a footing layout plan. We also have 3D renderings available upon request. This unique service offers you a glimpse of the finished project before construction begins.