Now that the footings and support issues have been resolved I can move onto the next phase which is framing.
During this phase I needed to do all of the carpentry work on the framework. This includes adding structures to attach the skirt boards, mount the posts of the railings, add/modify joists for how the deck boards will be mounted and add any additional structure before I start putting down decking.
5/10 – The first step was to mark out where the posts will go. I did this using blue tape. Knowing where the posts go is important because it determines where the skirting frames get mounted. Next I built and attached the framework that I will eventually attach skirt boards to.
5/11 – Today I attached hardware cloth to the inside of the skirt frames and back filled with rock. The idea is to keep the rodents out from under the deck, which in turn will keep the dogs from digging.
5/13 – Today I started the framing modifications. The deck boards will be installed using a method called picture framing which has accent boards placed around the perimeter plus a couple that separate areas of the deck. The purpose of the separator boards is to eliminate any butt joints between deck boards. Butt joints are where deck boards would typically rot. In the gallery below, you can see the before and after framing.
5/15 – Framed for the west accent divider and along the east edge.
5/17-18 – Started adding the posts for the railings. Each post has to be positioned with the ultimate baluster spacing in mind and then braced so that it will not move. The deck has multiple 45 degree corners which require special bracing. We also tweaked the design a bit and changed where the stairs off the east side exit the deck.
5/22 – Finished up framing today starting with additional framing for under the accent boards. The framing is required to support the ends of the boards on the angled portions. After that, I added blocks of wood, known as blocking, between the joists. This adds stiffness. The last step was to put joist tape on the top of all framing members. This weatherproof tape protects the framing from water and rot.
Next step, deck boards.
