How do you expand a deck without damaging it?
Aug 29, 2018 · HGTV designer Brian Patrick Flynn wanted to make the most of unusable, rough outdoor terrain—so he extended his deck to add extra space and valuable room for...
How do you build an extension on an existing deck?
In order to do this, you will need to install new beams and footings to support the addition. Some deck builders choose to sister the new joists back over the existing beam and install a new beam in front of the existing deck. The sistered joists are nailed into the sides of the existing joists and extend past the beam at least 6".
How do you build a step up on a deck?
How to extend a deck. One of the great joys of decking is its flexibility. As your needs change, you might start thinking your initial deck is too small and feel that you want to extend it. This is simply a matter of adding on another sub-frame. If your extension runs over a downward slope, you can accommodate the change of level by adjusting the length of the joist support posts - and …
Can you add to an existing deck?
Follow your plans to install your deck addition, pouring concrete supports, installing posts on them, and topping them with a beam of doubled or tripled lumber, typically 2-by-10s.
Can you expand an existing deck?
How do I enlarge my deck?
How do I make a small deck bigger?
How do you add onto an existing deck?
How much does it cost to expand a deck?
How can I make my deck post taller?
- Place a deck post mount over the top end of the deck post. ...
- Insert one end of the 4-by-4-by-16-inch post into the deck post mount.
How do I extend my porch?
Can a deck extend past the side of the house?
How do you connect two decks?
Can you build a sunroom on an existing deck?
Can you add a pergola to an existing deck?
When building a pergola atop your deck you will need high-quality hardware, including post bases that are designed to be seen, timber bolts to connect wood to wood for your top frame, and post-to-beam support, preferably that's been hot-dipped galvanized.Jan 22, 2020
Can you tear out a deck?
If your house came with a deck that's simply not big enough to accommodate your gatherings, you have two choices: You can tear out the old one and build a new structure or you can attach an extension. Here we address attaching an extension, which is the simpler solution of the two.
Can you build a deck extension?
A deck extension is not difficult to build. Essentially it is an added section supported by part of the existing structure. The new section can either be a step up or a step down. Another possibility is to restyle a slab patio as a deck.
What to do before widening a deck?
Before widening or lengthening your deck, it's vital to ensure that the original deck is structurally sound: Check the framing for any signs of rotting, cracking or other degradation. If the deck is attached to the house (not freestanding), make sure the ledger board is properly secured to the side of the house.
Why do you put a deck on a different level?
By putting the new deck on a different level, it makes the transition less jarring and unsightly. The new level also doesn't have to be separated by a whole flight of stairs -- one or two steps will be enough. A multi-leveled deck is also great for entertaining because it offers multiple intimate spaces.
What is cantilevering on a deck?
Cantilevering refers to a beam that extends beyond a support post or a joist that extends beyond a beam. The further it extends, the less safe it will be.
What is the best deck material?
One big consideration is deck material. You could go with cedar decking, which looks great at first, but won't take long to look weathered. Pressure-treated wood will stand the test of time if it's high quality and regularly treated. Composite decking won't require expensive maintenance, and it won't warp or splinter, but doesn't look as good as wood and will retain nicks and scratches.
What are the safety considerations for deck extension?
If the deck extension is far from the ground, safety considerations also include railing posts and balusters (vertical support pillars between posts). And if you want access to the lawn, you'll also need to think about stairs. Codes may dictate the requirements for proper rise (height) and run (depth) of each step.
What is a deck?
A deck is one of the most pleasant ways to expand a living space. As an extension from your house, it's a way to relish the beautiful outdoors while still enjoying the convenience of being just a step away from your home. It's also one of the most popular ways to entertain a big party: A deck not only increases the available space, ...
How much does it cost to build a patio?
Overall, the project will take several days (or several weekends) of tough, meticulous work, and costs can reach upwards of $5,000. But in the end, you'll have a lovely outdoor entertaining and living space that could last decades.
What is a deck extension made of?
Decks can be made from pressure treated lumber, redwood, cedar, and plastic, wood composites such as Trex. If you don’t know what material you have, it’s best to unscrew a piece and bring it into the hardware store with you.
Why is a deck important?
A deck is an important part of any home, follow this guide to extending a deck to help add space and value to your house. Most people are quick to say that they need more space. Whether you are having a party or simply grilling out for dinner, a small deck can be a hassle.
How long do composite decks last?
But pressure treated lumber will eventually start to look weathered and require annual maintenance. Composites will last forever, but don’t look at natural and are susceptible to dings and damage.
How to extend a deck up a slope?
To extend your deck up a slope, you can start the new sub-frame on top of the last. The most straightforward way to enlarge the area of your deck is by extending the sub-frame and boards at the same level. You might need to remove a section of balustrade first to do this.
How to extend a subframe?
To enlarge the sub-frame, you'll need to put up additional joist support posts and fix three sub-frame joists to them. These will define the area you want to extend.
How to cut a joist in a subframe?
Step 1. Use a straightedge or long spirit level to mark the angle across the outer and inner joists with a pencil. Then cut the joists along the line you've made. Step 2. Measure a length of joist, and cut its ends in line with the next joists of the sub-frame.
How to design a deck extension?
Make several copies to allow you to tweak your designs. Work with deck-planning software, available free online, to design a complete replacement.
How to check if a deck is sound?
Inspect the substructure of the deck -- the posts, beams and joists -- looking for splits in the wood, or sagging or leaning members that indicates insufficient engineering and support in the original construction, which may not have been to code. If you find problems, your best avenue is to remove both the deck boards and the substructure and start over. If the substructure is sound, you can keep it in place and add a new section or sections to it.
Layout
Choose the side of the deck you want to expand from. Work along one long side for large expansions, or add on to the end if you just need a few more feet.
Outside Frame
Cut your posts to length a little taller than you need them, using a circular saw, and stand one post in each hole. Fill the bottom of each hole with a half bag of dry concrete.
Finishing
Install a joist running across the open frame of the extension, perpendicular to the existing deck flooring, every 16 inches. Attach the joists using metal joist hanger brackets. Fasten the brackets with 1 5/8-inch treated deck screws and a cordless drill.
How far can a cantilever extend?
The rule, at least here in the US, is a cantilever can extend no more than 1/3 the supported length (so, you could go ~3 feet further). Personally, I try to keep cantilevers no more than 2 feet, regardless of total supported length: while it might be OK structurally, it will likely sag the further you go, and can feel bouncy.
Do composites hold up well?
The composites I have used do not hold up well for a cantilever they sag quite a bit. If a hand rail is needed this weight is added to the load.
How far in along a joist to support a 4' cantilever?
Cantilever needs to be designed to carry the load. For a 4' cantilever you may need to go 8' in along an existing joist for support. You then need to re-inforce the exisiting deck due to up-lift from the cantilever. In some cases you need to go with a larger joist size based on the cantilever.
Can you put a hot tub on a deck?
Do not install a hot tub on that deck, the way it is. Do not attempt to attach a cantilever area either for a hot tub.
Reasons to Extent A Deck
Types of Materials
- You will want to match the material of your deck extension to your existing deck. Decks can be made from pressure treated lumber, redwood, cedar, and plastic, wood composites such as Trex. If you don’t know what material you have, it’s best to unscrew a piece and bring it into the hardware store with you. Natural wood decks won’t last nearly as long as pressure treated lumb…
Extending The Sub-Frame
- This guide to extending a deck is simple to follow because it relies on extending the sub-frame of the deck. See the section below for the definition of a sub-frame. First remove the short boards that extend to the edge of your deck. This will expose the sub-frame. Next, you’ll need to place additional deck posts. You’ll need to dig a hole for the ...
Terms to Know
- If you plan on following this guide to extending a deck, you’ll need to know these terms before you head to the store. Ledger:No, it’s not an accounting document. A ledger is the long board that attaches your deck to the side of the house. This is important if you are using this guide to extend a deck to extend your deck along your house. Posts:The posts are square pieces of wood that e…
Conclusion
- This is a basic guide to extending a deck. With this information, you should be able to understand how extending a deck works. Deck extension costs vary depending on the material used, but the process is much cheaper if you are able to do it yourself. When you arrive at your local hardware store, the employees will be able to help you find every screw and joint needed for your deck ext…