How to Install Wood Deck Boards: A Step-by-Step Guide
Choosing the Right Wood Deck Boards
Wood deck boards are an affordable and durable flooring option for outdoor decks. Pressure-treated deck boards are insect-resistant and highly durable, making them a good choice for most decks. Dimensional lumber deck boards, available at most home centers and lumberyards, are among the least expensive options.
When choosing wood deck boards, consider the following factors:
- Thickness: Two-by-six or 5/4 x 6 boards are common thicknesses for deck boards. Thicker boards are more durable and less likely to warp, but they are also more expensive.
- Edge profile: Rounded edges minimize splintering, while square edges are more traditional.
- Length: Longer boards, up to 16 feet, reduce the number of seams and butt joints, which are potential sources of water damage.
Installing Wood Deck Boards
Materials and Tools
- Wood deck boards (33 for a 15-foot by 15-foot deck)
- Decking screws (1,000 3-inch or 2-1/2-inch screws)
- Hidden fasteners (optional, 500)
- Circular saw
- Electric drill
- Tape measure
- Chalk snap line
- Drill bit set
- Star-head drill driver
- Deck board spacing tool
Safety Precautions
- Wear safety glasses and gloves when using power tools.
- Observe the manufacturer’s safety instructions for using power tools.
- If the deck is elevated, take precautions to avoid falls.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Check and Fix Structural Elements
Ensure that the deck’s structure, including joists, beams, rim joists, and blocks, is in good condition. Repair any damaged or weakened components.
2. Plan the Decking Layout
For a 15-foot by 15-foot deck, you will need 31 full-length 16-foot deck boards. Plan to lay the deck boards parallel to the house.
3. Install the First Deck Board Row
Start at the end of the deck that is opposite the house. Lay the first deck board with a full overhang at the end. The board adjacent to the house can be ripped down if necessary.
4. Space the Wood Deck Boards
Proper deck board spacing is 1/4-inch to 3/8-inch. Use a deck board spacing tool to ensure proper spacing.
5. Attach Wood Deck Boards (Face Fastening)
Drive two screws per support point into each deck board using an electric drill. Countersink the screws so that they are flush with the deck surface.
6. Attach Wood Deck Boards (Hidden Fasteners)
Use hidden fasteners to attach the deck boards with two fasteners per support point. Clamp the jig over the board, centered over the support point, and drive one fastener on each side of the board.
Optional Steps
- Butt Wood Deck Boards: For decks that extend beyond the length of the boards, butt the boards together end-to-end on a joist.
- Stagger Wood Deck Boards: Stagger butt joints in adjacent rows of deck boards so that they do not rest on the same joist.
- Pre-Cut Last Deck Board: For decks that are 16 feet wide on top, do not cut the last deck board. Otherwise, pre-cut the board nearest to the house before attaching it.
- Trim Excess Decking: If necessary, trim the ends of the deck boards to length using a circular saw.
When to Call a Professional
For decks with complicated features like staircases, railings, or multiple levels, it is recommended to hire a professional deck contractor or general contractor. Professional deck builders are experienced at building decks to code, ensuring that the deck will be safe and solid.
