How To Build A Deck | #2 Framing [Beam/Joists/Ledger]

If you want to help support Shannon to produce more videos like this, visit www.house-impr...
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Visit www.house-impr... for help with your deck build. In this video, Shannon shows you how to build a deck, including attaching the ledger board, joists, beam, etc.
If you have questions about your deck or other home improvement projects, stop by the forum on our website, where Shannon will answer your questions in detail for free.
Website: www.house-impr...
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Twitter: / house_improve
Video © 2015 SKS Media. Videos produced by SKS Media (House-Improvements.com) are provided for informational purposes only. The information contained in the videos is intended to give general guidance to simplify DIY (do it yourself) projects. Because tools, products, materials, equipment, techniques, building codes and local regulations are constantly changing, SKS Media cannot and does not assume any responsibility or liability for the accuracy of the information contained therein. Further, SKS Media will not accept any claim for liability related to, but not limited to, omissions, errors, injury, damage or the outcome of any project. It is the responsibility of the viewer to ensure compliance with all applicable laws, rules, codes and regulations for a project. The viewer must always take proper safety precautions and exercise caution when taking on any project. If there are any questions or doubt in regards to the element of a project, please consult with a licensed professional. SKS Media conducts all matters in accordance with the laws of Saskatchewan, Canada.

[@HouseImprovements]

Here is a link to the"Pylex" adjustable deck supports: www.amazon.ca/Pylex-12098-Support-Extendable-Black/dp/B0753NYS3R/ref=sr_1_8?crid=361U3H4OH2N5F&keywords=pylex+post+base&qid=1584890716&sprefix=pyrex%2Caps%2C178&sr=8-8

[@josephbodnar9822]

Thank you information and you quick response. But it is not the same as in the video, why?

[@THOMASDRELICH]

Look like part number 12103 and not 12098? Yours didn’t have the bolts to adjust width? Couldn’t you fill the tube with epoxy in areas where wind is a concern. I know you loose adjustability. The company would be smart to thread the base then use the nut to lock into to position creating an actual connection to the ground. Nice idea but don’t know how it meets code

[@STEPHENCURRYGREATESTSHOOTER]

From the beam how many inch is the over hang. Thanks

[@mauricesize12]

HouseImprovements Would I need an xrtra brace if my deck span is 16 feet? Or can I use 2x10x16 for the floor joist.

[@gianfmm]

¹aq

[@done-ManJustLivingLife]

I'm building a deck and find your videos really helpful. Thank you!

[@steviegibson5847]

I know this is 5 years ago but I need to tell you that your video is one of the clearest and concise videos about decking, and i've watched a lot! Nice to see a few wee mistakes too - I think that stuff only happens to me! 😆 Many, many thanx for your marvelous video.

[@TheNealzarka]

No fake smile nor drama, simple and efficient, no cut on mistakes and a decent video. get my like and comment you random youtuber.

[@paulmayerpiano]

That's Saskatchewan for ya. Most humble and hardest working people I've ever met.

[@fifthamendment1]

Three important mistakes: 1. The flashing where it meets up at the butt joint on the ledger needs to be caulked. Water will penetrate at the butt joint and eventually rot out. 2. He tore the tar paper near the downspout. That should have been repaired. 3 Finally and most critically, the concrete patio is probably no more than than 3-1/2 “ thick. My jurisdiction would have required the patio cut out and a footing installed.

[@neme4sat]

​@@fifthamendment1 th fact that he hit rebar when drilling leads me to think the concrete is thicer than you are saying

[@michaelarthur6271]

What! A nail in a joist to hang the nailgun on? BRILLIANT! Thank you, Shannon & Co., your videos are Top Notch.🤗

[@ongta1265]

45:30 I love the honesty, love this guy, learned a lot from him when I remodeled my shower. 👏 👍 🙏

[@JSTX9216]

One of the best tradesmen on KZbin. I love his channel and videos.

[@davidbooher5559]

I’m subscribing just because of this.☝️ He keeps it real. Plain and simple.👍

[@thecountrycarpenter1816]

I was simply watching this for my entertainment.i greatly enjoy the technique you used to put that together and there are some very smart methods thrown into it. Great work man!

[@thebird135]

I’m actually glad to see you kept in the mistake and had to redo it. It’s good to see somebody on KZbin not edit that out. Shows even a pro makes mistakes. Softens the blow for the diyer

[@JohnAranita]

You need to eat tacos!!!

[@ipal1407]

I really appreciate the integrity and the honesty that you have recorded in your video your expert professionalism is unquestionable but anyone could have edited out the era of the crown being down rather than up. I am very impressed and anybody watching out there should be I have subscribed based on that just alone thanks for all your help. JEAN.

[@HouseImprovements]

You will notice in our videos when I make a mistake ,that does not hit the editing room floor. I'm human also.

[@laser31415]

I like that you didn't edit out the rim flip. "been there done that"

[@HouseImprovements]

Thanks

[@winip9261]

You have the best construction videos I've come across. Thank you so much

[@TheSkinnysmith]

I love how you showed yourself making a mistake (45:30)!This is very important for us “do it yourselfers”. This is definitely a confidence builder. Thank you! Your videos are extremely informative. The best I’ve seen yet.

[@jshepard152]

If he made one mistake, just imagine how many I'll make.

[@mickeybowmeister1944]

Nice work, a other option if you don't want to shag around fixing a ledger board to side of house is to run bearers and piles parallel and offset by 6" or so to wall, that way there's no physical connection to the house or any water proofing issues.

[@HouseImprovements]

yes absolutely , but cost goes up.

[@dadgad68]

I'm a builder and i got to say you do a fine job in your presentation. Great tips and very informative for the viewer. Great job.

[@screamingchickenshoppingne2390]

i agree

[@chrismagnum2710]

I had to go buy a Metabo cordless framing gun for the short cycle time between trigger pulls. Awesome ,awesome,awesome !!

[@gsh319]

You do a great job at teaching Shannon. I've built my share of decks but I'm watching your video anyway looking for any new info/materials, and tricks. GREAT job madman. Regular guy doing solid work, hats off to ya!

[@ZenLillyPhoto]

Thank you so much. So simple and organized. You covered all my questions.

[@kylelove927]

*Before you hammer your wedge bolts into the concrete!* Put them through the bracket and add the nuts so they don't fall off and *THEN* put them into the holes and hammer them into place. You won't have to bother with popping them sideways to fit by doing this. ❤🇺🇸🦅🔥

[@terrycarter1061]

Best videos on KZbin by far. Thanks man 🍺🍺

[@johnlamarre7330]

From bathroom toilet install to my deck expansion, your videos are like gold to me. Appreciate the clear instruction. I'm a big fan. Keep them coming.

[@alessandropepe1381]

True professional! Thanks for the video and knowledge.

[@GeniusIdiot287]

Glad to see you make mistakes. Teaches us all that even the best can goof up sometimes and to pay attention to detail. Appreciate the authenticity. Keep it up.

[@michaelgilman2691]

Thanks for your time man. Nice job

[@cwhussey5432]

what do you mean "hope you" stayed until the end.... Couldn't take my eye off the screen.... I really do like your videos and use the Knowledge you share regularly.... thanks for all you do....

[@Reneivan]

I was searching for roll roofing videos and ended up watching the entire video. Shannon you're awesome!!!👍

[@patrickknowling1796]

Check out these great woodworking plans here: HootWood. com

[@Factory928AC]

When he said that I was like. I stayed ....lol ... his glasses tho. When he forgot to put them on I was waiting or the camera guy to whisper " your glasses".

[@diyroger9648]

Excellent video!! So many tips cannot be found in other videos or "text books". Thank you Shannon, Mr of knowing everything! I have subscribed channel.

[@HouseImprovements]

Thanks for subscribing!

[@Noahsoak]

I love these videos. Shannon you're well spoken and concise. Great instructional videos!

[@Silent-G]

You’re a really good teacher

[@rcytb]

I just re-watched this video on ledgers - and several others. You're still the best! Thanks for all the education.

[@tomaspesliii4618]

😂😂😮🎉😊

[@Oldmanseenalot]

suggestion ,,,,,, if swedes don't fit through the metal, put them through from the bottom and set the assembly into the concrete.

[@riverraisin1]

I like that you don't edit out your mistakes. Chances are we will make the same mistakes when building our projects and we were able to see how you corrected them. BTW...what do you take to go in "Speedy Gonzales" mode? I'd like some of that too :)

[@gregoryosborn2228]

Thank you for the video! Awesome job!

[@on-targetpropertiesllc4841]

1/4" out of sq. before adjustment? Very nice! Excellent video, thank you for putting it together and posting.

[@rufuseverette5378]

Thank You, Thank You, Thank You for doing these awesome videos.....2 down, 4 to go....

[@robertesposito9871]

I feel like I can build a house after watching his videos, he's very thorough

[@HouseImprovements]

Thanks Robert

[@marjonaguila1112]

Hi Shaun can i get tip to do frame deck 12×10 and 2feet high ftom the ground

[@davidbooher5559]

Me too. Almost

[@YuvakTuladhar]

Very clear instructions! Thank you!

[@jamedonovan3555]

This HOWTO is so well put together. Thank you for making and posting it.

[@patrickknowling1796]

Check out these great woodworking plans here: HootWood. com

[@magdantallis7513]

Jame Donovan oi

[@L3x4Pr0ne]

The detail in this video was excellent. New sub

[@HouseImprovements]

Thanks for the sub!

[@jimmylove713]

I like this guy, I learned a lot from him, he explains things step by step, he is a professional, 👍🏻🙏💪🏻👍🏻

[@davidjohnson4198]

I would have use a membrane behind the ledger and a bottom drip piece on the ledger. There is potential that method could rot out the sill board the ends of the ledger wasn't done correctly. I use 3 strips of membrane and drip on top and bottom. Also cut relief strips on back of ledger for drainage. Everyone has their way.

[@chrisarksey]

Every time you film a video and you think damn this is taking a long time...remember how much time you're saving every viewer by not making mistakes and being able to plan properly.

[@jasonschofield37]

he shows how to fix mistakes which invaluable.

[@_Moto215]

Awesome video! But why did the homeowner pour a brand new concrete pad only to put a deck on top?

[@EraBoyz]

Shannon your awesome I watch a lot of your videos. I recently purchased my first home, and do all the work myself with the help of your videos. Im interested in redoing my deck so these videos are key.

[@HouseImprovements]

***** Thanks Alex! Glad to be of help. Please feel free to use our forum as a helpful DIY tool as well. Please spread the word of our helpful information. www.house-improvements.com/forums/

[@solangemorissette2786]

Alex Flores and hybrid b

[@southernlifeforme]

Alex Flores I

[@fergaldaly6567]

excellent presentation

[@kingaarons]

I'm only 34 minutes in and usually I rip through these to catch the broad strokes... I've watched every minute of what this guy has presented. Excellent and comprehensive video, easy to follow and thoroughly illustrated. Thank you for taking the time to share your craft Sir!

[@dirkdiggler5525]

For the brackets. Use one bolt at a time to save ya from adjusting after and hoping all 4 fit perfectly

[@red03golf]

I like everything you do except for the lack of pre-drilling. I feel, in a situation such as this, even though a manufacturer may say it's not necessary, the importance of mitigating stress within the board outweighs the convenience and speed of driving them straight in with no pilot hole, especially in drier dimensional lumber. As you're well aware, lumber loses much of it's strength as soon as it develops a crack or split. As for the flashing, perhaps a bead of construction adhesive on the top edge of the ledger board would be effective to hold the flashing in place so the main sections don't move and the splice doesn't slide laterally from its location. Great job with your explanations; I really appreciate your ability to convey key information to the layman - a true teacher.

[@johnvcougar]

Agreed! What's with tradies and their antagonism towards pilot holes and pre-drilling? There are VERY SOUND Engineering principles to warrant drilling, so that the damn things last a whole lot longer ... wait ... there's a clue, right there. Hmmmm.

[@peterfrasca5586]

Where I live you would want at least 4.5" step down onto the deck for snow buildup!

[@Elon_Trump]

This channel is saving me tons of money. I learn here instead of paying to go to trade school. Thanks, Shannon!

[@gatekeeper65]

Then I hope you donate at least a part of what you're saving to his Patreon account ;O)

[@donf3739]

25:30 I'll bet you could attach some hurricane strapping to those anchor bolts somehow, and up over the beams.

[@SultanofSpey]

The best instructors are always even tempered, deliberate and purposeful. Never a wasted word or movement. Thanks!

[@cliffordyawn2696]

Great video man. Thanks👍

[@deborahwood694]

Love how you explain WHY ... being a very visual learner and not even close to memory oriented LOL why is critical to me. Great videos!!!

[@ElonMuskX]

Question on deck board height at the door plate. Do you not want about a 2" step up or height difference for the purpose of snow and ice build up. This way melting ice or rain water does not work in under the door frame and rot the sub floor????

[@joemadrid8331]

This is one of the best renovation channels out there. I'm about to build a 30'x8' deck for a customer. Videos like this one here are a gold mine! From Norway, thanks a ton Shannon! You are appreciated man!

[@ryansouthard]

This is fantastic. Thanks so much for putting this together and sharing!

[@nailzandscrewz3606]

I changed from the FM Lags to the Simpson SDWS -no predrill, smooth flat washered head that don’t limit where I place my joists. Check em out. Cool vid 😎

[@myuellchew1487]

thank you so most for tip Simpson lag screws is the best and quicker

[@borthewolf3376]

What is keeping those adjustable supports down other than the weight of the deck?

[@HouseImprovements]

+Bor the Wolf The bottom is bolted down but the threaded rod part can still move. If you live in a tornado or hurricane area theses will not be able to be used.

[@ronlaverdiere]

With all the videos I have watched for building a deck, you are probably the only one that actually mentions treating the cut ends on every piece of wood. Thank you for this!

[@HouseImprovements]

Glad it was helpful!

[@skuzmanovic3227]

Great job dude but I am wondering why do you need a deck build above perfect concrete slab? You could just build a set of stairs and that would be a sufficient for nice backyard like yours.

[@HouseImprovements]

Its what the client wanted.

[@ewad623]

Shannon knows everything. Any time I'm looking to learn ANYTHING, I look for Shannon's videos.

[@HouseImprovements]

Thanks!

[@hking4059]

Absolutely! He is Great

[@chuckstith838]

Why would anyone build a wooden deck over a beautiful cement patio?

[@GridIndustries]

Knowing how much concrete costs after paying for it, I wouldn't cover it either. Lol

[@MilosStevanovic1]

I literally build everything in and around my house by watching your videos sir. From bathroom, to doors and windows, to shed and now deck. Thank you.

[@HouseImprovements]

That is awesome!

[@bobpower5545]

I love your videos but you never once used a level to make sure the joists were all level and plumb. Is there a reason why? I was redoing a deck with an existing sloped ledger and thus was a real pain for me. Would love to hear why you didn't use a level. Keep up the great work. Love it.

[@HouseImprovements]

The ledger and beam heights where levelled using a laser level to start with.

[@andyprairiedog]

This is a great series. You're great at presenting this information, reasoning and demonstration. My first deck project (24x36) is a bit more than I could chew. Attended more "KZbin University" and am learning more amd more. End result, I over killed some areas. Thank you for showing this, Shannon. You and the Crew rock at this information.

[@GoodwillCriminalsOfDallas]

Well look at it this way, it is always better to do more than less. I use brushed-on Titebond glue on all exposed joint ends.

[@wendywu2199]

Wow, impressive video. I have stayed till the very end of it after several night shift work from hospital! I want to build a 12x16 deck like this too. I am wondering how much will be the cost?Shannon , do you work near Ottawa? Thank you so much for your videos! They are all well made.

[@hawkesworth1712]

Did I miss some essential ingredient in snapping a stringline before he cut the joists to length?? The stringline was straight but how did he know it was parallel to the other end of the joists. Theoretically, you could snap a stringline that would be straight but the deck could end up a triangle.

[@skinnygumbo2700]

I was thinking about the same thing. Probably he has a very good eye.

[@stephenbanks8754]

hawkesworth1712 556

[@catdash4390]

A 1/8 of an inch out of square? 😣😂😂 Like me, you are a perfectionist! Great video!

[@ou812huh]

My measurements are tight as a frog hair split four ways..🐸

[@Samibz]

Hate to be one of those people but those joist hangers are designed to have longer screws/nails in the 4 diagonal holes. That is so the screw/nail penetrates the joist as well as the framing member the joist is being hung on, in this case the ledger board.

[@xl000]

whatever

[@larrys5733]

He’s right though. 2.5 inch nails in the diagonals, 1.5 into the face

[@Neo-bq6vt]

Good point. Thanks for pointing that out!

[@A-bone]

xl f u he’s correct

[@chrishawkins5808]

Do any of you have any manufacturing spec to share Where I am we have joist hanger nails. (Heavy duty galvanized. But short) They have a number on back 10 for 2x10. 8 for 2x8 and so on. I'm sure you all know what I'm talking about. But if you don't have the right number and one in every whole Will not pass inspection! They don't accept any other fastener!

[@ExtremeRecluse]

The wall I am attaching my ledger to has many reveals, therefore my ledger will be in 6 pieces ranging between 2 and 7 feet in length. Now I know why the previous owners decided not to build a deck in the 14 years they lived there. Where do you get the vinyl flashing? I can't find anything but aluminum. 1.5 inch Z-Flashing. Nice laser level.

[@HouseImprovements]

Use either a membrane flashing or vinyl siding window and door cap (Z flashing)

[@TheLkvoice]

One of the best Home Improvement channels out there. Well explained as you go along step by step, in terms all can understand and discusses the simple issues you may come across as you attempt the same project. Nice one Shannon.

[@martyjosephson4937]

Can you show how carrier beams are installed, the beams that run in the center along the entire length of the deck?

[@IBEWelectronut]

Made it to the end. Very thorough video. My Dad was a carpenter; I am an electrician. lol. I wish I'd have paid more attention to my Dad's craftsmanship back when he was alive. But thank you for your instructive videos; they really helped me hone up on some forgotten knowledge I had. I have a new house that I will be installing a 10' x 20' deck on with a handicap ramp for my mother-in-law and brother-in-law. Thank you and God bless.

[@snoopydogg796]

Also flashing should be under the tarpaper

[@GreganDunn]

The flashing being jammed behind the joists isn't an issue? Isn't that going to funnel water between the joists and the ledger board?

[@jerrodbridgef1417]

These contractor is a real Professional,he breaks things down throughly everybody is different as long as your going by code, and he those Lol he's name should be Code lol,that's how good he is

[@krishnaram8932]

Nice work bro

[@wilsocn]

I bet Canadians love that one day a year that it is warm enough to wear shorts. I kid, I kid. Nice video.

[@JeffTheFarmer365]

We have pretty warm summers here usually. 21ish Celsius every day.

[@wilsocn]

+Randy Bobandy That would be around 70 degrees in F which is just about the perfect weather. I live in the southeastern part of the US where you never know what kind of weather to expect. It was nearly 70 in late December this past year and 13 inches of snow on the ground a month later.

[@JeffTheFarmer365]

+wilsocn it was 15° on Friday and -15° today and 2" of snow. unbelievable

[@jeffalley4417]

bruh, it's December 29th in Louisiana and I've been wearing shorts since April

[@chrisverville6327]

I believe this was on a Wednesday!

[@rubbersole79]

If you set the joists 1" or so higher than the ledger, you give the water and dirt a place to drain out.

[@douglasssnook8664]

Would this be a good time to consider adding electric power. When I did my last deck I didn't run power and regretted it later. If you know you will be using outdoor lighting, or other electric you may want to consider rough wiring at this point.

[@cycle007]

I just finished a deck and went with solar lighting....real easy setup too.

[@nelsonkn]

Very informative. Thanks

[@tdogg2288]

Just remember people every country has different codes this wouldn't pass in New Zealand

[@PaulLadendorf]

A minor correction. Those aren't lag bolts. They're lag screws. I mention this because if you ask for lag bolts at your home supply you'll end up with the wrong fasteners and they will probably ask you if you want nuts for the bolts.

[@HouseImprovements]

ok thanks

[@dareisnogod5711]

nuts & washers.

[@yousircantknow8987]

They are lag bolts for sure. The hardware that came with my lumber has a box of 5/8" lag bolts for the ledger.

[@smellywetdogturd]

Correct they're screws, and you need some time out doing something other than scrutinizing deck fasteners

[@cuckoldawife]

Looks like a 6 inch ledger lok

[@robertknapp6746]

Would you cut out t 111 to fasten ledger also ?

[@LarryDoolittle]

Great work. I would sure want you to build my deck. I am sure you are proud of your skills and work ethic. First class!

[@jim77004]

Shannon... don't know if you'll see this but the 45 degree joist hanger screws should be 2&1/2 inch... not the 1&1/2 inch (#9). Still... great video.

[@lonniewalsh6056]

This guy is as good as I have been, in the past. I'm now 75 yrs. old, and enjoyed my earlier years very much.

[@keithtse6834]

Houseimprovements....any long term durability issue with that Pylex post support only being powder coated? Any height adjustable alternatives that are galvanized?

[@SEBTECHDIY]

Greats tips, im building my first deck ( 10x14 ) in one month, i can't wait, will be a fun project!!! Thanks you 😆

[@jimg7318]

Love your videos. Here in Illinois we get several inches of snow so we usually build the deck down the height of a normal step( about 6 3/4 inches. I do this because I have yet to find a fool proof way to keep snow from weeping under the door. Flashings doesn’t work under the door sill. Do you have any ideas. Thank you. Your work is excellent.

[@highflyinpilot1]

amazing video my friend, lots of great info

[@kingofrandomjunk]

you make really great vids! no one hand vids!

[@fergusonto-2032]

I’m having trouble finding the vinyl window & door cap that you use for the ledger , can you send me some information on that , I’m sure Lowes has it but I can’t find it online & I’d rather not go in the store , with the covid-19 thing going on , Thankyou for your videos & May God Bless

[@HouseImprovements]

Usually if you just search siding it is easier to find that way.www.lowes.ca/product/vinyl-siding-trim/1-14-in-drip-cap-330614805

[@giaanchow7417]

You are a great teacher! Your instruction makes everything easy to understand. I feel so confident to tackle our project now! Thank You!

[@HouseImprovements]

You are so welcome!

[@skycap100]

There is nothing wrong doing it this way, but it’s unnecessary to..... just add a few more post against the house, without having to make holes on the home.... I give the homeowners both options with freestanding being the smart option.... Where home surgery is not necessary..... Great video though

[@aforeffort747]

Great video! One thing, joist hangers need longer screws or nails in the angled holes! 2-1/2" minimum according to Simpson strong tie! Most common mistake everywhere! Almost all pros make this mistake!

[@brewsterly2927]

There are two different types (and 2 different trains of thought), one bracket accommodates angled screws, the other screws in at 90.

[@drivewayhero]

Is that paper vapor barrier enough for the ledger?

[@kamekazi1123]

this guy is no Larry Haun hahaha

[@briannabaillie6760]

lady Jonah

[@patrickknowling1796]

Check out these great woodworking plans here: HootWood. com

[@phillipmccarter7471]

No hes not but he is a good skilled carpenter and is very thorough.

[@neiltroppmann7773]

When hammering in anchors double nut the end you are hitting so you hit the nut not the bolt, you will never damage the threads this way.

[@willroberson1578]

where are your bags????!!!

[@robgracia509]

great video thank u for sharing

[@geraci89]

Hi there. Im in the Toronto area with hot summers and cold winters. Is this method ok to do on top of a concrete slab like this and affix to the house? Or would I have to worry about heaving issues if I do that?

[@HouseImprovements]

This is Saskatchewan ,so we have even larger swings in seasonal temps. You will most likely get minor up and downs with seasonal lifting but should not be too severe . With the use of those adjustable stands I used you could adjust it if you ever had to .In the case of this one in the video it has not needed an adjustment yet and we are on clay soil here as well.

[@geraci89]

@@HouseImprovements That's great news! So I shouldn't be too concerned with anchoring to the house as well I guess. Thanks Shannon. Great videos by the way. I'm moving to a house that has a concrete pad but very much prefer the deck feel. I built my first based off your videos. Shed too. Very helpful

[@Thebrickrobloxcat]

And whats the nail gauge you're using for your nail gun?