The east and center sections are done about as far as I want to take them so it is time to switch to the west section.
6/20 – Started demo by removing the storage box and the railings. Then I removed the skirting board. Next I removed the balusters from the posts by the stairs. At this point, the area was in full sun and 100 degrees so I quit for the day.
6/21 – Today I started removing deck boards. I removed enough to be able to deal with the support issues but without making it impossible for the dogs to go in and out. After I removed enough boards jacked up the deck and then screwed in two screw piers.
6/22 – I started the day by renting a Power Demolition Hammer. Basically a small jack hammer. I used it to break up the old concrete blocks that the deck had been sitting on. Next I fabricated and installed a beam. With the beam in place, I removed the old 4×4 posts and lowered the deck onto the beam.
6/23 – With the beam finished it was time to start framing but before that I dug a trench for the sump pump drain pipe. After that I installed wire mesh along the north side and then added a board for the skirting. After that, I built the skirting frame that sits behind the stairs. I also removed a few more deck boards before I lost the shade.
6/24 – Another hot one. Today I attached the posts on the side where the stairs will be plus all of the structural framing to support them. I also added framing for the accent board that will be put along the edge by the stairs. Then I finished removing deck boards all the way to the door. To facilitate the door door I put down some plywood, temporarily.
6/25 – Cloudy day and not to warm. I was able to build and attach the framing for the skirt boards and then attach the wire mesh. After that I installed the framing that will support the accent board. After that I installed four posts. The only thing left to do before decking is some blocking and the joist tape.
6/26 – Blocking and joist tape finished today. The weather was cool and windy. After putting the tape on I decided to go play Pickleball since the next step is to start decking.
going to be really nice