How NOT To Build A Deck - Ultimate Guide On Every Mistake You Can Make

[@askor9585]

I'm doing a 2nd flip. I've noticed jobs like this are done not by amateurs or ordinary people, but licensed contractors. They take short cuts and the home owner is none the wiser. Amateurs do better work as they spend time doing research and afraid of doing the wrong thing.

[@juzoli]

Yeah, I am that amateur building my deck. It will be good, I already got compliments from my inspector. But I spend like 3x as much time on it than a contractor:D

[@davexb6595]

Yes this is me. I like my DIY. My dad was an engineer and he taught me to over engineer everything. It takes me much longer and I know I use a lot more materials than a contractor would to do the same thing. As you say it is partly because I don't know what short cuts would be OK so I don't take any at all.

[@Dave5843-d9m]

My house was ***ed up by an amateur. Everything - I mean EVERYTHING had to be replaced including the water main from the street stop tap. No expense had been spent on anything.

[@gregorycase5091]

I would like to disagree with you but it's unfortunately true. That said you also get what you paid for with spec home builders and the lowest bids. I make a living that is at least half funded by fixing DIY and homeowners trying to save money and not pay a professional. The other half is renovations and crappy builders.

[@paulrobinson5833]

This is not always true.

[@awoodmann1746]

Everyone's a critic. I built this deck in 1965. I think it held up pretty good!

[@rusticrangebear372]

You did great

[@tribalism_is_toxic1989]

This is hilarious if the homeowner found this video of the contractor talking sh@! about his deck.

[@davidfrank6666]

that is a good long time. i did not see him fall into the floor.

[@jasonthomas2714]

Fuckin masterpiece there i do declare. ✅

[@zackhinson5791]

Contractor looks like a mr. Cool guy asshole anyways. Like wtf is that vest

[@tonybucca5667]

SOMEHOW, advice from someone with backwards baseball caps just don't ring

[@rickershomesteadahobbyfarm3291]

Looks like 99% of the porch’s I’ve stood on.

[@KawikaDeyab]

Drank beer on *

[@CincyPlasmaTech]

The 4x4 on a paver reminds me of our timber frame barn that rests on field stones. The frame has held together for 100 years using only wooden pegs. I am humbled by the skill of 19th century carpenters.

[@baxtronx5972]

Loose rocks in a hole counts as a footing. Maybe backwards hat guy doesn't realize that.

[@dahpizzaboy6149]

If it ain’t broke don’t fix it.

[@Livingsacrifice12]

@@baxtronx5972 post hole digger 6×6 posts and wheel barrow mixed concrete with the stongest psi you can find. Also notch the joists and install a cleat the length of the ledger board or band board, or use good metal brackets with the screw pattern recommended for durability. This deck was clearly built in the 80s by the same coors light drinkin hillbilly we all know lol

[@Livingsacrifice12]

@@baxtronx5972 sand is amazing too just go below frost line

[@garymurawski1476]

Maybe they DID knock that 4X4 over with a sledge on the paver for visual appeal. and granted it has lasted (deteriorated) for 15 years. No better time to do it right. @@dahpizzaboy6149

[@irishmichael81]

Only thing I'd really clarify is stringer spacing. If using 5/4 boards or composite you definitely want them at 12", but if your using 2x's for your treads 16" is plenty and meets code. At least where I live.

[@joshuasmith2814]

It would be fun to hear the guy that comes rebuild 10 years after you... ;)

[@chrisrobertson3467]

"I don't know what the fuck he was on... Probably a young cowboy on some cheap coke"

[@centauro0515]

@@chrisrobertson3467 some cheap coke, hahaha, that’s awesome!

[@william_of_rights9587]

Watch him build other decks and you'll see he does some pretty good work. I just built my first deck in northern Minnesota. Super level right now, I'm anxious to put a level on it next spring.

[@timbo_slice4053]

The deck won't have to be rebuild in 10 years.

[@beyourself1433]

10 years????? that's too much, whoever comes next will only need a few weeks, that's how that kind of business works. " I always be better than you building things"

[@irishmichael81]

That deck definitely had major construction flaws but it does seem to have stood the test of time lol. Those support posts weren't even bad compared to some I've ran across over the last 10 years. Like a deck built over a walkout basement with 4x4 posts buried in the dirt, no quickcrete just buried in dirt.

[@she_sings_delightful_things]

Holy shiiiiit

[@YoutubeHandlesSuckBalls]

I was just about to post that. Notwithstanding the low construction quality, the deck lasted until the top wood rotted.

[@stans5270]

I built a deck in Maine for my FIL that if I did it the POL way, it would have cost $30,000 more in excavating and torn the deck up after the first winter. I attached it to an existing 3-year-old landing that was floating. The site is covered with 5+ ton boulders of granite barely beneath the surface that prevented any type of proper footings being dug. You do the best that you can with the budget that you're given. If the deck builders were told that the homeowner wanted a 16x20 deck with a budget of $4,000, that is what they got.

[@waltk2842]

Next video, How NOT to demolish a deck. The Ultimate guide on how to get injured.

[@THEpremieroutdoor]

I like that idea! You have to admit the pieces of wood flying made for some good entertainment

[@geraldo6205]

i have to agree, even though Premier is doing a Great job with pointing out defects i love the idea of if it's in your hands take it to the Dumpster, i hate carrying things twice or three times.

[@01cissy]

Something you overlooked, or forgot to mention is the fact that a lot of people do not have an un-limited budget to work with. I built my deck (40' x 8' x 2 1/2' tall) on a nothing budget, and used a lot of the shortcuts you have shown. It's looking pretty ugly by now, but my 200lb fat ass can still jump up & down on it and it stays solid after over 20yrs . And was built without any carpenter skills and no internet, using books. Just saying.

[@edac1407]

If you can't afford to do it right, you can't afford to do it. If you had to sell your home, this would nock a lot a money off the price. Someone falls through your deck and you built it wrong, you could get sued. I had one section (20 square feet) of all 3000 square feet of my deck fail after 10 years. It failed only because rats got under it and chewed through the PT beams and joists as well as undercut the pier blocks. By the rats chewing through the PT portion of the beams, the interior rotted out. To give you an idea, the same area has a 6x6 post supporting the roof overhang. I had to flatten the rat tunnels, use a house jack, and raise the 6x6 post and pier block by 4 inches. I am replacing 30 year old deck from previous owners. It has been bouncy the entire 25 years we have been here. Beams scabbed together to form longer beams with no support under the seam. Beams using tree stumps to support them. One section I already replaced did not use flashing over the ledger and connected directly to the bottom log of the house. This mistake cost me another $10K to replace the bottom log.

[@RossMalagarie]

It's good to diy but we should all learn from our and others mistakes.

[@vx-iidu]

@@edac1407most american post i've ever read lol nuff said

[@MrLawnart]

​@edac1407 if you can't afford a brand new perfect condition house don't buy one. Sounds like a god complex comment followed by trying to explain how u bought a shitty house with a shitty deck that u left that way for 25 years and now ur rigging it yourself instead of hiring a contractor but you think it's somehow better if you did it. No amount of code would prevent rats or termite damage. FYI my house had termite damage so we ripped the floors up ripped out the floor joists jacked up the walls removed the ledgers replaced ever entire board without splicing shimming or rigging anything added joist hangers because the house is old and didn't have them put new underlayment down and replaced the floor. So by my standards u didn't properly fix anything just jacked it up and wedged a block in it instead of replacing the 6x6 but my deck is very not to code sooooo do what you will with that. It's my deck we enjoy it I don't have 25k I'm willing to give some other guy so I can sit on my porch when I did it myself for 2k. Is it perfect?? No not even square but I'm pretty sure it would hold my truck and definitely more than the wood framed house it's attached 2.

[@The_Cyberz]

Building codes and inspections exist for a reason. To protect people from shit work.

[@shannonrickman7620]

Every contractor " the guy that built this didn't know what he was doing" lol. Looks like it's been there for awhile to me.

[@darinvee4980]

Exactly. This guy is a jerk. Kicked through the lattice and complained about it? What did he think it was suppose to be structural? The deck was built by a homeowner and maybe not done the best, but like you said, it's been there quite awhile. They got their monies worth out of it.

[@itstheotherwhitemeat]

@@darinvee4980 yet the lattice was still up and not broken at all. the deck looked like it was about 20 years or older. it had a good life.

[@cdreid99999]

Several things he said here are bullshit. I built a deck in an afternoon. 2 years later we deconstructed it (screws), and built a different shape deck with it at my sisters...another afternoon. (Octabon shaped btw). Supports sat on poured concrete. ON not in. Deck attached to house. Literally never maintained. In the woods in temperate rainforest (close to 100% humidity is the norm). 20 years later they demoed the home. Deck was still mostly ok. Except for the parts of the railing a contractor charged a grand to put in. Burying wood in concrete is a recipe for rot

[@michaelmaas5544]

Dudes been doing it for like 10 years and thinks he’s some pro builder😂

[@lesvalernipi9871]

Exactly

[@rainsrabble]

DIY before youtube. There was not always an endless supply of 'experts' to teach people how to do things in the most difficult expensive way possible.

[@markdoumert4840]

I understand a diy person not knowing the absolute intricacies of construction and best attention to detail, but if you cant figure out that a 4x4 propped onto a paver does bot constitute a proper footing, just from common sense, then you have no business building anything other than birdhouses and picture frames.

[@ron7202]

@@markdoumert4840 And what about flashing? WHO DOESN'T USE FLASHING? Apparently a lot of people! I found this problem when I wanted to replace my deck boards. But wait, there's more! One of the joists collapsed when I removed the last deck board, because it rotted at the connection, because there was no flashing! And...if two nails are standard, to secure the deck boards to the joists, three or four must be better, right? Holy Christ!

[@YSLRD]

I build a deck foundation for a shed 15 yrs ago. Treated 2x6's on cinder blocks. It's still there and holding up an easy 800 lbs of storage.

[@homemadehouse1418]

Deck seemed like it needed repairs not destroyed. Typical contractor taking advantage of homeowners.

[@HashBandicoot356]

There has pretty much always been code guidelines Mr. enlightened.

[@morokeiboethia6749]

Sometimes a contractor is faced with a tough decision - Should I buy and install that flashing on the ledger or do I need to re-up on my meth supply?

[@jacob476]

Did this guy just wander into a yard and start tearing the deck out

[@THEpremieroutdoor]

I got lost and found this deck that was in obvious need of demolition so I went to town on it 🤷‍♂️

[@jamesasher4506]

Jacob ....ha...same tired story... make yourself look good at someone’s expense... I’m a carpenter and I guess I made every mistake imaginable... but I had a man tell me when I was just starting that a real-carpenter can take his mistake and make it right ...( words to live by) ...

[@bendouthat6960]

The only thing 2 different carpenters can agree on is .. the 3rd guy is doing it wrong

[@DavidGalan777]

Definitely not built right. But it had enough supports that it wasn't unsafe. Looks like its been there for a while.

[@cutcreator12b]

At 19, not knowing shit about construction, I built the shittiest roof over a porch for my mom. As a carpenter of 20+ years now, I cringe every time I look at it. The things is, though, its still there, and it's never leaked. I wouldn't build it that way again, but we definitely over-build these days.

[@creepybunny255]

Yeah, I stopped listening at "You NEED 12" between stringers (on the stairs)" Dude, I've built so many steps years and years ago, and they're still there, fantastic shape, and they were built nowhere NEAR 12" apart....

[@ron7202]

This is why there are building codes. They're designed to make structures safe, for the intended occupancy. Just because something has been standing for years, doesn't mean it's safe. Building codes are the MINIMUM standard. There is nothing wrong with building something better than minimum standard. Building codes are like cheap suits; they work, but only just...

[@mangotango7284]

@@creepybunny255 people are a lot fatter these days. Use the stringers

[@philipsnyder9126]

@@creepybunny255 yes I believe for 5/4 deck boards the mex spacing is like 18 inches, so 16 should be standard. Here they have 2x6, so , 12 inches would be overkill.

[@shawnd4633]

Somebody was proud of that work at one time. Probably had to show everyone they know.

[@bender49ers]

And it lasted them all that time. Reminds me of some projects my mom would do we used to say that's not gonna last 20 years later I'm waiting to tell her I told you so.

[@csm8245]

Furthermore, I bet this deck lasted 20 years without causing any accident. Even the fence he kicked in was not damaged before. It was probably a good investment over time and did what it was supposed to do.

[@ryanc2927]

@@photon3999 yes and most decks don’t pass inspection first time, most are built by do it yourself owner and is also why most accidents aren’t even reported!

[@samjones1720]

If a "contractor" are whoever showed up kicking things with his hat backwards and life jaket, talking about the last guy you'd get run off.

[@THEpremieroutdoor]

Good thing I can't get run off my own jobs then!

[@richard.breslin]

We just got done with a DIY composite deck in our backyard and im glad we went above and beyond what you mentioned here. :)

[@silverfeathered1]

I just finished a reno on a house a client bought this year. We saw a lot of what I'd call "diy" from the previous owner. No big deal, it was their house to fix up how they wanted. Deck was built at diy level skill so it was completely rotten and falling apart. We got the call originally because a 4x4 "made a loud crack sound" one evening. Cool... The post was days away from snapping like a drawn bow into their back window. Ok. Plot twist. I got to talking to a neighbor while working on the collapsing fence, and it turns out the old lady that lived there did none of the work herself and hired a contractor (company name on the trucks level) to do all the work. The deck that I assumed was built poorly between 5 and 10 years ago? Less than a year old. I get that people hate hearing pro's bagging on other people's work... But if you get paid to do a job correctly you are not entitled to "professional courtesy" if you milk clients that don't know better and put people's lives at stake.

[@williammitchell8247]

The part that pisses me off more than a pro bagging on another pro is those pro's who skip the permit process. Not sure about other states but where I live, an pro is required to get a permit for damn near everything.

[@markdoumert4840]

Absolutely. I wouldn’t expect a homeowner to know the best practice in these situations. The hardware, lumber type, connection details, design etc. But if youre getting paid to do it for someone else you better know your stuff. If you cant do it in a professional manner up to code you have no business doing it for money.

[@tlnn6598]

“Don’t do this, don’t do that....” NOW you tell me! I just finished my deck with ALL the features you said NOT to do. Oh well, back to the drawing board. LOL!!!......(Nice video)

[@THEpremieroutdoor]

Hahah it’ll be finnneeee don’t even worry about it

[@jameswasson4471]

Talking about unsafe ,if I ever seen one of my crew Talking apart handrails with a sledgehammer or kicking it like an idiot i would fire them instantly.

[@winterfar2814]

There are very few contractors out there that do a good job every time. Thats why DIY is becoming more and more a thing. I think there should be more requirements put on contractors to qualify their skills and integrity.

[@justcommenting4981]

Probably solved by making sure they get the permits right?

[@thomasgibbons353]

I think you need to do more homework.

[@bmo5082]

I noticed that a lot of people are really cheap. I ran a GC business and most of the time, a job done right, with insurance and licensing to back it up is going to cost a lot more. I did well when I stopped working for DIY folks that were poor and started working for upper middle class folks.

[@thunderballz74]

These contractors are trying to make a living! Putting more crap on them will only get you less of a good job because they have to get it done quickly and move to the next just to break even because of all these rules you would want put on them .. but just know that you will be putting out twice as much money now.. great isn't that just smart. By the way contractors try their best to do a good job.. because if they don't it gets spread around and they do not get the jobs that they bid on!!!!

[@thunderballz74]

@@bmo5082 poor people are just the worst huh? I'd rather be poor than a better than though prick!!! I am poor and we poor trash have to watch our money and budget well.. so when you do a job for someone and they want cheaper material.. ITS ALL THEY CAN AFFORD!! DON'T BE A PRICK ABOUT IT JUST BUILD WHAT THEY CAN PURCHASE. YES GOING TO BUILD FOR WELL OFF PEOPLE MAKES YOU MORE MONEY BUT YOU GET YOUR MONEY IF YOU BUILD CHEAPER BUILDS EITHER WAY SO DO YOU JUST NOT LIKE FOLKS BECAUSE OF THEIR STATUS OR IS IT YOU JUST MAKE BETTER MONEY IN UPPER CLASS AND ITS NOT A CLASS THING?

[@lorettaanderson8216]

You think that's bad you should see how mine was built, I didn't do it but now I have to do it over, they friggin did the siding around the deck so the board that rotted off left a huge hole for big critters to get in. No joke

[@jtompkins1277]

Chad's helpers wear earbud so they don't have to hear him.

[@ajgsxr]

What inspection?

[@mhn6547]

Awesome that you can you do this with your busy schedule running Cobra Kai. Just bugging. Thanks for the tips!👍

[@THEpremieroutdoor]

It’s definitely a struggle 🤣🤣

[@robertjones5501]

I am planning to redo our deck for much of the same reasons. Mine looks just as bad. Thanks for the pro tips. Keep up the inspiring deck work!

[@maceyloubrown]

Lol this made my day. I’ve been stressing about my back deck needing replaced, but you made me laugh. Thanks so much 😂

[@goonie8774]

This dude is doing his best to pick apart this deck but struggling mighty

[@talay2005]

You know, if you turned your hat around the right way, you wouldn't need sunglasses on

[@bruceeverett5372]

Nice video. You rarely see such a complete collection of shortcuts and buffoonery, it's got to be shared! I looked under my deck and thankfully found no matches. PLAY ON!

[@majorjaffa]

This was clearly a DIY job, and furthermore it looks like it has lasted at least 10 years

[@scrapmanindustries]

I've seen "professionally" built steel decks built in 1968 make it to 2020 with missing welds and everything. kinda strange what lasts and what doesn't.

[@andie3448]

@@scrapmanindustries when measurements are correct and even throughout theres less room for janky

[@zebra00024]

One of the commentator saying he built in 1965, lol 😂

[@1965Grit]

While I agree with most of what he is saying, one thing he needs to keep in mind is, what we're the codes, the typical deck designs and the the amount the customer was willing to pay at the time of the build, I've been in the trade about as long as he has been alive, and I can tell you, that trying to build a deck back when I started, using today's standards, you would have priced yourself right out of the job, or lost money on the job. My point is, anyone can critique a job that was done decades before the new technology came along, everything needs to be put into perspective. Other than that, yes, he is correct about alot of the things he points out.

[@GetItDonewithGunn]

Even the birds moved out. Dang! Lol

[@THEpremieroutdoor]

hahah can't believe how many things they did wrong but at least it made for some great content lol

[@Ffn23]

Must have shares in timber company Stringers every 12 inches 😂

[@anthonywillis7634]

It looked like it lasted awhile! 😂

[@bobbg9041]

Footing depth depends on where the property is located, the key is frost line. But this deck isn't 10' in the air, at most it 3'8" meaning its not life threatening if you fall off it.

[@billmckinzie]

in the humid south, beware of fungus. If the deck is low and cannot get circulation, fungus will eat it even if it is treated wood. Fungus just needs food, moisture, and heat. Wood is food (even treated wood). Moisture is any water that does not dry completely out. And heat is summer. I have seen decks fail within 3 years.

[@THEpremieroutdoor]

Good point!

[@4vinylsound]

So how much does it cost to have a deck like that built today in 2022 correctly according to codes?

[@21gonza21]

When you need to use shims what do you use?

[@davexb6595]

I'm no builder but I believe this is the wrong question. The piers should all be at the correct height. If they are not - then that is an issue that needs to be corrected. Shims will not stay in place. You should only shim a joist to prop it up for a few weeks until you can get around to fixing the pier. If you can't replace the pier, consider a gal steel support bracket. However to answer your question, you need a damp course between the pier and the joist. If there is potential for termites, the damp course also needs a metal cap. That way the joist is isolated from ground water and pests. Thus if you need a few more mm then add another layer of damp course. In the video, it was not just that there were shims but also it was wood directly on a concrete pier. The concrete pier acts like straw for water to rise up and rot the joist. The wooden shims make it even worse by sucking up the water, trapping water/dirt underneath the joist and moving around.

[@juliancannone432]

pt shims with copper green

[@cdreid99999]

@@davexb6595 lmfao jesus no

[@jessedukelacrosse6470]

This guy, with the crappy materials they sell now , i wonder if his project will last more than 8 years , this stood the test of time for sure whether he likes it or not solid deck no matter how much he criticized the craftsmanship

[@spencervance5920]

I love this breaker board idea. Just so you can cut your boards to a board. Only to have that grow a gap instead. Little confusing lol

[@neilarmour4497]

The shrinkage occurs along the length of the board so if your breaker board is 90 degrees to your deck board it should minimise the shrinkage.

[@tatsumaru12345]

Looks better than some decks I've seen. And it looks like it's been up for a long time. Sure there's a good bit I'd do differently, this deck was definitely not that bad

[@MrTonyPiscatelle]

Yea but he's SUPER strong and can fix it ...LOL

[@she_sings_delightful_things]

Right!

[@strongholds12]

He almost impaled his leg when kicking throughout the skirt board.. who else was reminded of the meme "skumbag steve" when looking at this guy?

[@breezyblossom8120]

"I am super strong" 😂😂 Humility at its finest right there!

[@THEpremieroutdoor]

Obviously!

[@mouanhojable]

Almost didn’t make it through the video with all the that “BRO-ness”. I was literally waiting for you to shotgun a monster energy and elbow drop the deck from the roof. To immature for me.

[@THEpremieroutdoor]

That's hilarious, will I have to pay royalties if I use those ideas in my next video 😂😂

[@mouanhojable]

Premier Outdoor Living no royalties needed.. please do tag me in the next video if you decide to do it. You will have a subscriber for life if you do.

[@THEpremieroutdoor]

Might do it at lunch on Instagram 🤣🤣 @premieroutdoor

[@truqualitypaintingtv7814]

Too immature....lol. At least he knows what he’s talking about....i can look past the “BROness”. Lol.

[@mikemartin9113]

My jaw is dropping right now at the rudeness of some people! WHY. THE. HECK does it matter HOW he presents HIS video?! I'm pretty sure this isn't some PROFESSIONAL Pfizer-esque medical documentary!! Holy cow...I just can't right now - this is what's wrong with America. Unbelievable.

[@treefarm3288]

We don't have frost in North Queensland but we do have tropical cyclones which exert tremendous lifting forces, so you must have bolts through your posts, connected to your bearers and the joists should be attached with 3 direction framing anchors, not nails. Hardwood is normally specified if there is no roof, like yours. Thanks for the video.

[@michiel9810]

He's probably right on all accounts, but that was once a project somebody put a lot of effort in (with some decent results). No need to be so disrespectful

[@DeadEye428]

Comparably, this would be top of the line work in New Mexico. Just put a new roof on out here, they literally just built the houses extension by nailing through the original finished roof.

[@jamesanthonysrlopez3116]

First time viewer and I have to say is. Great job finally someone who cares like Mike from Canada. Anyways..smh on all those scrappy decks out there, just to make a buck. No worry on the world if it fall..but here you come to the rescue. Good Job Fellas

[@THEpremieroutdoor]

Thank you my friend!!

[@jamesanthonysrlopez3116]

I'll be watching and either asking fire advice from you or maybe having you come to Cali

[@jefflinnell8492]

Flashing tape is newer than that deck. And the framing looked right they just had a hard time with footings and at the bottom of the stairs it only needs a 4 inch thick pad that the bottom of the stringers land on. Most people pour a pad.

[@aprilmiller6767]

The house I purchased has the ultimate in deck stupidity. They took a cinder block foundation and, instead of running the blocks under the house then building the deck out from there, they placed the blocks AROUND the deck so that anytime it rains, the water goes through the slats and literally under the house. The inside of my front wall is almost destroyed from the moisture. They also put crappy wood paneling on the inside front wall with no insulation or dry wall. It all has to be torn out and redone.

[@THEpremieroutdoor]

Yikes, I wish people would just put in the work to do it right the first time

[@jefflovinfishin621]

Maybe don’t buy a house like that.

[@wtfbbqbye]

Those stairs looked super strong, support every 12 inches sounds silly....

[@zammyc6414]

Hey, "super strong" guy", I loved to know what you charged them to replace the deck that had probably been standing 15 years or longer. Just sayin'....

[@rachaelt3294]

I think the same person who built this deck built our porch....

[@huejanus5505]

I still don't agree with attaching a deck of that height to the house. A few more posts and it would be independent of the house. The siding could go all the way with zero chance of water infiltration.

[@THEpremieroutdoor]

That’s also a good way to build it!

[@rupe53]

Hue Janus ... you could build it that way (free standing) but it may eventually "walk away" as the ground shifts. Probably best to attach the deck to the house even if it has enough of it's own support, because moving it back in 10 years is a royal pain, even if it's only an inch or so.

[@frederf3227]

@@rupe53 They make spacers so you can attach the deck to the house but not be tight to it. Also you can tie the foundation but not the frame

[@rupe53]

@@frederf3227 .... yes, they have been making those spacer for some time. My point was a deck needs to be fastened to the main structure, even if that's not doing the support.

[@alegator7249]

Even though he's been out of high school for 20+ years he still wears his cap backwards, so he must know what he's talking about.

[@THEpremieroutdoor]

Hey man, I had only been out of high school for 12 years at this point!!

[@alegator7249]

@@THEpremieroutdoor Yea, but you graduated when you were 23.

[@THEpremieroutdoor]

I don't think so!

[@Bowling_Planet]

him: You can't have riser boards with more than a 3/8 inch difference me: *looks at my 10 inch riser board and my 7 inch riser board* *UH OH*

[@cdreid99999]

This is the one thing he is semi right on. Stairs are a big deal and you dont want bubba designing them or people will hurt themselves and theyll be miserable to use. Each riser should be equally high and the stairs equally wide. And certain ratios are comfortable while others are horrible

[@tristanwiebe151]

Should've torn apart my deck 😂 wouldve had a heart attack

[@cheerry777]

This deck isn't as bad as he said. Could have been easily fixed and save a ton of money.

[@milagrossmith4891]

And there in lies the problem. People with no professional skills in the field doing it themselves just to save a couple of $$$. Being a home owner for over 25 yrs I've learned that some repairs and /or installations you hire a professional for.

[@whathappened2230]

Free standing decks do not water your house. Just say'n.

[@LHAGYALO258]

When other contractor sees your job they will find the some complains.

[@THEpremieroutdoor]

Never!

[@Wanda_Jannette]

Not if he does his job as he should professionally and applies proper math as he should per specs iso half ass as many subcontractors do then there shouldn't be a problem. Many call themselves home improvement contractors or licensed per X specialty subcontractor truth is many do cut corners. Truth is we need people educated so bad contractors out there don't bullshit people and yes there is a shitload of bad contractors out there who will 'Micky Mouse a job and get paid on a so called completed job' so yes people need to get educated in construction so thank you KZbin for the good people out there who like to do things right and educate people. And yes there is always an arse who want to shit on the previous contractor but when a job is done right a real man admits ang give credit where is due- earth movement shifts and crack surfaces and the environment damages damages surfaces if an owner does not keep up the maintenance of a service but a well job done still show after x amount of years. I appreciate the education and details from this contractor. Liked and subscribed!!!

[@michaeldepow6663]

I've worked in the trades for 20yrs and owned 4 homes. I gutted the 2nd and 3rd. What I didn't already know I looked up and asked the building department what code was. Only had a problem on one house. I forgot the fire blocking and they made me cut the drywall and add it. With the internet you can do it all but you better have some pro experience or it will take you forever. P. S. Sub out drywall finishing

[@nickfelicione6300]

Stringers 12" apart? Where is this? I've never heard that one before

[@paulrobinson5833]

Yeah theres no need for that,at least go with what your deck joist spacing is, depends on decking material as well.

[@MrZootalores]

16" on center is standard.unless special situations,12" on center is overkill..

[@jeffbguarino]

Where I am , you only need pads about 4 inches thick and then put posts on them and your beams on top , You can shim or do what you like. If you put piles down 23 inches or whatever, they would just shift and leave a mess and just be terrible. I just adjust mine ever couple of years to level the deck. I build my deck up against the house but it is free standing. I use a car jack to jack up the deck and then adjust the posts with shims. My deck is 26 years old and still good. I only have problems with the paint which never lasts and I am going to strip it off now and just stain it so never paint , never use deck paint.

[@patrickyates2486]

Wow, get a load of this weirdo. That's all . DO YOURSELVES A FAVOR ,ALWAYS DO YOUR RESEARCH,AND SAFETY FIRST.

[@jeffbguarino]

@@patrickyates2486 When I jack up the deck, the posts are still in place and if the jack failed the deck would just drop down 1/2 inch or so and I am not underneath the deck for it to fall on me, I am off to the side. There is no safety hazard. How you build your deck foundation depends a lot on the soil. I built a flower garden with a wall built out of stones and did exactly what they suggested in the instructions, digging a trench down a foot or so and then using crushed rock and tamping etc. The thing sank in 2 years and was a waste of effort. It is easier to make a very shallow foundation and live with the fact that it is going to shift. Here the soil is all clay and impermeable to water. If the weather is dry , the ground dries out and water that could be trapped down a few feet will evaporate and the ground will sink a foot or so. This also happens with lots of basements because the builders dug out the ground when there was water and just filled in with the water trapped. Now they build most houses on piles under the basements.

[@gregorsamsa1364]

Yes, sir. This is how it's done

[@honestlyna]

I see so much building material I could recycle!

[@donnash5813]

I always liked to selvage material. Saved a bunch of old growth cedar deck flooring. Used a table saw to ripe cut the outer edges. Beautiful wood underneath. Used it for few small projects. Still have a bunch of it.

[@vipkarl]

And yet, the deck is still standing. How long did you eant it to last?

[@baconking9648]

The one I am working on is much worse. They set the 4x4's 12" down with just a brick under the post. Then continued to fill the hole with clay. It's no wonder the deck skirts pulled the nails out of the 2x6's..

[@THEpremieroutdoor]

Scary stuff out there 😬

[@The_Brew_Dog]

There is tons of that wood that could be repurposed for all types of things. Put an ad up for free used deck wood and you will get hundreds of calls. Ridiculous to be so wasteful.

[@THEpremieroutdoor]

Can’t argue with you here it is pretty wasteful

[@johndough1966]

How do we know the original homeowners didn't build that deck and were extremely proud of it. Kudos to them for efforts! Being a carpenter and custom home builder of 35+ years, one thing I will never do is "trash" another person's work, we cannot and should not ever compare professional work with that of a homeowner trying their best. That's too easy, and can actually make you, the supposed professional, look simple.

[@pedagogyhome7181]

I have a patent for a hidden fastener. Would you be interested in testing it. I couldn’t find a website to message you. Thanks

[@Littlelamb2023]

This deck lasted 20 plus years and still looked (from a none pro eye) good enough for a bbq! so if its diy id be happy with it haha

[@mikeschiavoni5973]

Still, if your going to diy look at code and tge reasonong for it. Flashing, bolts, all very important.

[@Whohoohoo]

Someone had to feel it wobble

[@williammitchell8247]

I did a DIY deck on a buddies house, I over engineered it to say the least but the damn thing didn't so much as shimmy when three 200+ pound men jumped on it. It will be there for decades as long as it is treated properly.

[@matthewbattershell6352]

How old is this deck ? when was it built ??

[@moneymakingmikeg.9555]

Holy sh!t!!! Those steps would be as spongy as a freakin trampoline man!!! You had me crakin up this entire video Bud!! Dirty Jersey out!!!

[@THEpremieroutdoor]

bro, I couldnbt believe how far apart them stringers were!

[@majystm7415]

@@THEpremieroutdoor and yet you still walked up and down them just fine after they had been like that for at least a decade. What a whiny dick.

[@jonathanpuerto4867]

This deck was built before KZbin didn’t exist.

[@bolerdweller]

How do you price your deck builds? Square footage prices with small adjustments depending on joist size, decking and how many footings you need?

[@M1_Maple]

The correct way is to do take-offs plus man hours times mark-up equal sale price. You can ball park square based off surface square footage and railing linear feet. I wouldn't contract using that as the calculation tho.

[@scottpierson7495]

Have mountain property up in Sierras near desolation wilderness. Like to build a platform for a Wall tent. What to build a 16x12 off the ground about 16”. Any suggestions. I will use concrete blocks for peers. This will be my first build with out pops around. Any suggestions would be appreciated?? Thank you i

[@huckelberricampbell4616]

Just looked under my deck on the house my wife and I bought 2 years ago. I lost hair no joke. I'm tempted to call you guys even tho I'm in PA.

[@THEpremieroutdoor]

Hahah sounds scary

[@pauly3473]

You definitely don't need stringers every 12 in.

[@jeybird6276]

I built this deck...thanks for totally bursting my bubble

[@MrDjmurdock]

Jey Bird lol

[@cliftonite100]

Didn't we work on it together? This guy just threw us under the bus.

[@evans7085]

It was a good deck, for a 9 year old.

[@billiejeanbaccus159]

😂😂Lmaooo.

[@billiejeanbaccus159]

Even if you did do this work years ago. Every year they have something New. As far as projects they did in 50's and 70's. What ever we do now 2020. Its may be something better in 2030. See so we only know whats available. And do a good job doing it.

[@phoenix21studios]

code inspectors? what places have code for residential decks?

[@johnwalenski1555]

Why The People's Republic of Massachusetts of course!!!

[@Flamingorr]

1:53 I am super strong ! Hahaha 😂 get outta here, you seem to be a cool guy to work with. I can see your guys enjoying what they’re doing!!

[@THEpremieroutdoor]

Hahah we try to have a good time while we’re out there!

[@Flamingorr]

I can see that ! I do construction as well and I really love it every day . I couldn’t have a better job! Good luck to you man!! I’ll keep watching your videos ! 👍👍 .

[@davidbooher5559]

A little baby did just kick that lattice in...😂😅

[@jonathanleslie9100]

had that lattice on my deck when I moved into my house. 30 years later that same lattice was still exactly the same when I sold the house. This guy is a cry baby. Oh, and the deck was 15 years old when I bought the house.

[@TheHiddenleaf03]

Loved this video, you made me laugh the whole time. Now I'm going to watch your video on how to construct a deck.

[@atomicorang]

The owners did the best they knew how without “ professional “ contractors.

[@anotherjoe5675]

There is so much sun where we live that almost any kind of structure or appendage like a patio, deck, gazebo or fence built out of wood and painted or stained is bound to failure in the long run. Times have changed and almost any building, exterior doors, facia, etc. built from exposed wood is something to look for and avoid when thinking about making a real estate investment. Unless of course you like and are prepared for the maintenance.

[@JHimWoodworking]

This is actually exactly how I built my deck 🤷🏻‍♂️

[@THEpremieroutdoor]

Sturdy enough to crush some natty lights! 🤣

[@Jenuin]

Same.

[@BeckVMH]

Did you use the book written by the builders of this deck? Haha Hard to tell if this was constructed by a lazy amateur or a corrupt contractor.

[@geomcc39]

I seen decks built on dirt and they never dug any hole's for the post the idiots just poured cement around the post ! you get what you pay for !!

[@kenmoore957]

The people that lived there probably had the best times on that deck it did its job

[@toolsntruck941]

oh i have seen worse .actually did a bid on one that had collapesed

[@Mike-gy3ko]

That deck was built stronger than a lot of houses. Can't say as I have ever seen stringers at 12 inches apart.

[@michaelmarion2742]

He mentioned at the beginning it's a deckorators deck (composite) which has a standard 12" O.C. for all joists and stringers. Trex and other composites are the same, they will flex more than wood especially on a really hot day, so it's a good standard to follow with composite decking.

[@2coolhipdude]

He said a Deckorators deck "going in". The deck he's tearing out is solid wood. Depending on the thickness, 5/4 or 2x, the code is 16" to 24" OC. Yes, the video stringers were too wide.

[@christopherrto]

@@michaelmarion2742 He definitely should have clarified but that makes sense. I too was going to say "WTF... 12"? Certainly not 32" like this one but 12?!"

[@Pepe-dq2ib]

@@christopherrto i do 12" because mine are ceder and not hardwood.

[@christopherrto]

@@Pepe-dq2ib I've never seen a hardwood deck. Treated SPF or Cedar is the only thing you see where I'm at

[@patrickpatterns]

Dude, you're funny. "I am super strong, but probably even a little baby could kick through that." made me lol

[@SunandSnowGardening]

But he seems a little serious when he says this stuff. Not sure we're laughing with him, exactly.

[@Taylormade2350]

You guys need some recip saws for that demo.

[@ravenstarver1360]

Circ saw is so much faster and easier for 95% of that demo. I only use a reciprocating saw if I have to.

[@Taylormade2350]

Raven Starver if that’s what you like doing then that’s all that matters. Me, I use a recip for demo and get the job done plenty fast.

[@lees5097]

HAHAHA so true

[@wooge3199]

Chainsaws..watch for nails...get it

[@markafloretta3455]

My deck was built when my house was built 27 years ago. It was not built correctly by the builder. And, it has been a pain to maintain; this year I discovered that the support posts are rotting badly. Also, the footings were not poured correctly. I'm in the process of having professional plans drawn up to meet all city and county code requirements. I must have new footings poured, as well as additional footings to ensure the deck is properly supported and up to code. I am also having a 4-12 pitched roof installed over the entire deck.

[@jefflovinfishin621]

You are meeting “all city and county codes”???? Dumbest thing I ever heard 😂😂😂. Just build your deck bud.

[@Dogpool]

It’s a bummer , it really wouldn’t have been any more money or work to do it a bit better and last longer. I can say though, when that deck was built there probably wasn’t KZbin videos on how to build decks. Things have changed.

[@jpl57210]

let me check your work when completed.

[@terryferan9028]

I can't get beyond the hats on backwards and the condescending attitudes.

[@THEpremieroutdoor]

Was it each individually that you couldn’t get past or was it the convergence of both that really got you all jammed up 🤔

[@terryferan9028]

Very few people intentionally do so called inferior work. Subject your own work to scrutiny and don't approach demolition like they do on those half-assed HGTV shows.

[@williammitchell8247]

@@terryferan9028 If those people who don't intentionally do inferior work would contact their local permit office they would never subject themselves to such conditions.

[@BrianTurnbo]

I'm pretty sure that most everyone mad at someone who is pointing out inferior work also do inferior work. I mean if you saw someone driving the wrong way down a one way street you'd presumably talk some shit about how dumb the driver was, you can't believe they made that kind of mistake, and how they potentially endangered people.

[@nickcrane8329]

@@terryferan9028 Shit work is shit work. There's no need for complacency, the work was sub par and all he did was point it out.

[@atFullStrength]

Which state and county are you in that requires "12 o.c. outdoor deck stringers? The deck looked to be no more than "44 off the grade.

[@alexmotpan3374]

And you doing a demo around an ac unit like that ! Not at my house

[@THEpremieroutdoor]

Good thing we didn’t come to your house by accident! Sounds like you wouldn’t be happy 😞

[@alexmotpan3374]

Premier Outdoor Living not doing demo like that! I’m a general contractor and that bullshit ain’t gonna fly with me !

[@JK-ne4xy]

I’m with Alex, you’d never be invited to my crib. Unsafe

[@unpopularopinion149]

It didn’t get damaged did it? If it did I’m sure he’d fix it. He doesn’t want that to happen any less than you don’t want it to happen.

[@ubergenie6041]

Wow …informative video. I thought auto repair video comments were the worst. I know this is the internet but even so there seems to be an inordinate number of self-proclaimed “experts” commenting😮 Built decks in college then built high-end custom homes and later built commercially. These decks are extremely well-built. They are over-engineered and I’m sure are pricy but the customer is getting what they paid for every time😊

[@jeffreybrooks4061]

Looks like a pretty good deck to me it's called working with what u got looks like the guy who built it got her done son i didn't see any weak spots or anyone falling through the floor it's probably been there a Iong time is there a better way sure but if someone notba contractor built it I'd say they done a pretty good job