How to DIY build a modern deck and pergola using Azek in 15 minutes time-lapse?

I have a 9-5 full time office job like many of you, but it doesn't mean you need to hire someone to transform your backyard into something amazing. Most home improvement projects around the house are DIYable, although some basic skills are required, common sense are far more important. Before you start the project, you need to do enough research, check the bylaws, zoning rules and apply permits (if needed). Most importantly, don't religiously trust all the KZbinrs or Facebook videos.
This video is a time-lapse of what I did in the last 3 years. I am NOT affiliated with any products or companies, my videos for this backyard project are NOT sponsored. I just want to share my experience and made all these videos to help others. There are many tips, trade secrets and technical details I shared with you, hope you find them helpful. Check out the complete list. The backyard project isn't 100% completed, I will continue to upload more in the coming future.
No Permit Needed?
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Yes, if you check out Part 4 and Part 7 in the video (see below), the city's building inspector came after some neighbors had some concerns. The inspector took some photos and did some measurements, several days after that he told me I DID NOT NEED a permit. So, it is very important to study your local bylaws.
Cantilever vs Non-cantilever Deck
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To get around the permit, I intentionally designed and built my deck under 2 feet. But the problem is that, I didn't have enough space to have a beam sitting on the post to build a cantilever deck. I say 95% of the decks out there are cantilever. So, I used joist hangers for every single joist, although cost is higher, but permit issue is gone. Check out Part 4 for details.
Complete List
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Part 1 - Helical Screw Piles with TechnoMetalPost or GoliathTech?
• DIY Deck (Part 1): How...
Part 2 - How to use pressure washer to dig 12" post hole? Homemade Hydro Excavator!
• Video
Part 3 - How to install code approved ROT FREE Ledger Board brick veneer without flashing?
• DIY Deck (Part 3): How...
Part 4 - How to avoid getting a deck building permit even with Pergola?
• DIY Deck (Part 4): How...
Part 5 - How to build paving stone landing for decks in just 1 day?
• DIY Deck (Part 5): How...
Part 6 - 3 ways to notch a 6x6 wood post and how to build a bridge for the decks?
• DIY Deck (Part 6): 3 w...
Part 7 - How to build a pergola on the deck? No additional footings needed!
• DIY Deck (Part 7): How...
Part 8 - How to frame privacy screen for deck? Why Azek PVC over Wolf and Trex?
• DIY Deck (Part 8): How...
Part 9: How to picture framing Azek deck boards and install fascia like a pro?
• DIY Deck (Part 9): How...
Part 10: Why you should avoid Joist Tape on Azek or PVC deck?
• DIY Deck (Part 10): Wh...
Part 11: How to install diagonal decking using #Azek PVC boards like a pro?
• DIY Deck (Part 11): Ho...
Part 12: How to transform a traditional pergola into a modern contemporary backyard?
• DIY Deck (Part 12): Ho...
Part 13: How to build a modern privacy screen and install Shade Sails like a pro?
• DIY Deck (Part 13): Ho...
Part 14: Ikea #Solleron review, assembly and how to protect it from rain and snow?
• DIY Deck (Part 14): Ik...
Part 15: How to drill pilot hole without wood drill bit? and relocate Sillcock Faucet
• DIY Deck (Part 15): Ho...
Part 16: Don't buy Paradise/Sterno WiFi transformer for LED lights until you watch this
• DIY Deck (Part 16): Do...
Part 17: How to upgrade the ugly wooden Gate for $30 as a weekend project?
• DIY Deck (Part 17): Ho...
Part 18: How to build a Fireproof charcoal BBQ grilling station for your deck?
• DIY Deck (Part 18): Ho...
Part 19: Can BBQ Grill Mat protect your Azek/Trex decking from charcoal and flame?
• DIY Deck (Part 19): Ca...
Part 20: How to fix Azek deck with squeaky noise, popping and creaking sound?
• DIY Deck (Part 20): Ho...
Part 21: How to make canopy for Pergola and install #Coolaroo Shade Sail like a Pro?
• DIY Deck (Part 21): Ho...
Part 22-XX: Will be released in Year 2021 on zero grass project, running outdoor pvc conduit, propane fire pit table review, etc.. (more)
Full Play List for all the videos
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• DIY Deck and Backyard ...
Music Credit:
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Song was written by Sappheiros - Lights
/ @sappheiros
/ lights
• ❰Progressive House❱ Sa...

[@auhrvjzihvezjxhhvvsnjxhxhv]

This is not a DYI. This guy is a professional!

[@sheliajohnson4540]

I just look at this video and was how do you know what goes where and all that

[@tk2097]

Yeah but also £1000 worth of tools 😂😂 great job

[@hardtruth607]

You can say that again!

[@TopNotchViking]

A professional😂🤣 it took him 3 years to do! 😅🙈

[@hardtruth607]

@@TopNotchViking you have a neck tattoo... enough said

[@geemx8183]

Me watching this DIY video with a couple of screwdrivers, few nails and one measure tape in my tool box 🤨 ✍🏽✍🏽

[@kjincanada]

lol me too!!!

[@ManuelCastillo-pr6sl]

Yeah this DYI its an inspiration killer

[@davidjiron32]

😂😂😂FR! I have the same set

[@landoversace5824]

🤣

[@minemenice6530]

Same hahaha, this is a million de k

[@ecp711]

Hats off to you for doing this in 15 minutes. This would take me 3 years

[@liesdiebibelbruder420]

He didn't do it in 15 mins

[@13lilfrogslvr]

@@liesdiebibelbruder420 Really? 🤔

[@sobeitone3336]

It took 3 years....they condensed it to 15 min 🤣🤣

[@peterg6953]

@@liesdiebibelbruder420 Did you even see the video?! He clearly did it in 15 min smh

[@clips8991]

R/woooosh

[@sabby1802]

When I saw him start sewing , I knew he was in a league of his own 🙏🏾

[@Kenny-bj2zq]

Haha I was like Oh Lord....

[@nwms8]

Your DIY is more professional than some pros. Holy cow.

[@EndOfIt]

some pros?

[@dee9631]

@@EndOfIt professionals*

[@opportunist9310]

Your skills are amazing. I knew you were the real deal when you were sewing your own shades lol.

[@DIYable]

Thanks!!! Yes, I bought the sewing machine for this.

[@tombomombodombo]

This would take my whole life to do! You have such a wide range of skills

[@myopinion7393]

Absolutely love the level of detail and overall project. I can say that you have many years experience because there is no way that’s the work of a true DIY’er. Phenomenal job either way!

[@MBZS500]

You have some serious skills.

[@713JL]

I know!! 15min!!!! That would literally take me the full 3 years

[@circasurvive9891]

I thought cars could only talk in that one pixar movie

[@davidrl41]

Great video. Pro tip: Take the air filter out of the shop vac when sucking up water.

[@dilpreets7]

I think he used series 7000 which is for used for wet vac

[@Drtyred313]

🤔🤔🤔….Dayum….You don’t know but you just taught a lot of us sumthin with that….🤷🏽‍♂️🤷🏽‍♂️🤷🏽‍♂️

[@DIYable]

I would really reluctant to call it a Pro Tip. it's more comfortable for me to call it a DIY Tip. Well, it worked!!!!

[@danielyusko3147]

This guy makes me look like a total rookie. And he did it all himself?? This would take me at least a summer and a half. Nice work!!

[@Mike__B]

Did you miss the beginning of the video? It took him 3 years.

[@danielyusko3147]

@@Mike__B Wow...What a commitment. Fantastic job.

[@fozpringle1]

I feel your pain working alone, i always help people but when i do something everyone disappears

[@mosart7025]

My husband always drags me into his projects!

[@Trendsetta68]

Me and you are in the same boat ... 😇👍🏼

[@bobloblaw7465]

I love working alone. No one can talk back

[@derekbenjamin8143]

Easy fix: dont return a favor until they return yours.

[@Mike__B]

Why do I get the feeling that more was spent of fasteners than was spent on lumber and decking material?

[@hausofrlateish]

Dude! This is the most amazing diy I've ever seen. Well done! 😊👍🏽💕

[@CertifiedShadetree]

Tip of the cap to you, good sir!! Amazing detail and excellent craftsmanship!!

[@DIYable]

Thank you, hope it helped and give you some inspiration!

[@rebeccacardy6070]

@@DIYable that it did!

[@yjwoo1131]

I am really impressed not just by you built a deck on your own, but how professional you did it! The details are amazing. You really did put a ton of thoughts on it! Respect

[@DIYable]

Thank you!!

[@sharonharris7245]

No way you're not an experienced contractor! DIY if you know what you're doing!

[@bangcao5537]

This DIY looks easy! My wife and I will probably finish this in one weekend!

[@adamstime]

I think you guys can handle in day.

[@levgolosov2245]

DIY… all you need is $20k worth of tools and equipment

[@corporalcrimson3295]

My neighbor built this, it sounds like someone flipping a piece of sheet metal around when it's windy.

[@Dayon09]

Wow....... I gotta find my jaw it hit the floor and rolled away. Well done !

[@michellebaldwin6484]

Wow! Amazing. Watched the whole thing... Wish I had the money and skills. You did such a thorough job... No short cuts there. Ratings!

[@unsortedguy]

Probably the best backyard transformation I've seen! : o

[@ArtGuides]

Something like this would jack up the price of any house, definitely worth doing, it also happens to be fun

[@leroysanders3564]

Damn mannnnn, you should've called me - I would've helped😆😆😆 #Awesome

[@xraydoge5430]

I can’t find the words to describe this work. Thanks for showing us this, we don’t deserve it ❤️

[@icampalways]

The level of detail in this is amazing. Props to u! 👏🏼

[@jacquiericard5190]

You did an amazing job! Great detail. A ton of patience, and a lot of courage to tackle such a big job, alone! 🏆🏆🏆

[@Jearrod]

DIY in a day! All you need is 10 years experience and $30,000 in equipment!

[@Hoodbusiness]

Great job and I appreciate you letting me know NOT to DIY. Looks terrifying after I’ve been deemed the DIY queen. I will not attempt this one

[@thimitri1]

And a year to edit this video.. beautiful!!

[@Marvin-er9nd]

Umm this is amazing! Dude knows how to build anything. Damn I need to get my ass of the couch!

[@KefirTView]

One of the best DIY videos on KZbin. Covered so many different aspects of the build being keen to detail and affording his viewing audience the ability to take those same lessons to a variety of unrelated projects to this video!

[@hellypalli]

In 15 minutes you were able to complete this project, In 15 minutes i watched you complete this project, Im pretty happy with myself, I might go to bed now

[@Jaethewoo]

This is not even professional, it is beyond! I work as a carpenter, this is not just building this man is making art!

[@Singh.RichyRich]

This guy considers himself as a DIYer than a professional and here in Australia i have seen So called professionals with less than 10% of the trade knowledge. I think it’s time for you to give up on that 9-5 Job and get on to the tools mate. You are a bloody legend!👌👌👍👍

[@ALKUKES]

All them tools cost more than the job it self

[@2009bigchief]

One question WHY?. Decks are a real hub for rats why bother the endless maintenance it needs cleaned .a nice bit of stonework put down or something that a deck.never liked decks always a place for rats to make there nests plus anyone I have seen are really slippy as people when put them up never clean them as they should .

[@iAmTCAB]

Simply Amazing!!! You're a Pro!!! Makes me feel like I have Zero skills lol!!

[@DEVLIN1cyt]

Just built 3 of these after watching this no professionals needed DIY job.

[@MCH51287]

Lol cool that he did it himself but yeah gona have to say I value my time more. That aside well done sir

[@tyeshabowen2203]

The only thing “DIY” abt this video was the person doing the recording.

[@DIYable]

I just published a new video related to this project "DIY Deck (Part 23): How to Run 120V Underground Wiring to a Deck for LED string light?". Hope that helps for those who want to do some outdoor electrical work yourself. Of course, DIY!!! kzbin.info/www/bejne/pJabiYKlgbqgm80

[@HongsiquanWingDing]

seems a bit overkill in many areas, but still nice job.

[@daxmojones9025]

"Took me 3 years" ... wait what?!?

[@alexivonne60123]

This guy saved thousands of dollars diy.

[@jonmike316]

Great job! Can I see more of the pergola? I like the simplicity and how you added the shade. We have a stamped concrete patio and also curious how do I know where to put the posts, ie how to check for square?

[@g.d2450]

And here was me all proud it took me every weekend to for 2 months to do a deck and pergola with retractable sail cover..... Just read this mega build took him 3 years so don't feel as bad now lol

[@DoneDifferently]

When he says “Pro quality” he’s not bragging, he’s stating a fact. Looks amazing great job. This is definitely not a DIY I can tackle

[@zancrus9629]

Yeah I was like "oh cool lets check it out" then less than 1 minute in I'm like "Nope no way I'm gonna be able to do this".

[@jcking6785]

Amazing skills and results. (Frustrating to have to stop, rewind to read the subtitles. Also, what are you ashamed of?! Show your face and be proud of the skills you possess)!!!

[@DIYable]

LOL.. showing my face may affect the views and subscribers. Not a good idea LOL

[@kevinbaird7277]

Are you in the witness protection program?.

[@raul6039]

Says no permit needed,pretty sure anything attached to house needs permit

[@robertyeo2329]

Hi you are making too easy you can be my consultant l am too old to undertake this on my own

[@danghita4386]

Dude! I completely understand why you had to blur your face.. you are so good that it's risky to walk freely; people will fight to hire you, probably even kidnap you 😀 Too good, this is not for mere mortals, leave us alone!! 🙃

[@DIYable]

LOL.. exactly.. u got it bro

[@lt9356]

With those skills definitely One person is good enough 👍

[@hectordehesa2118]

It said one guy in 15 minutes…. He wasn’t lying. This is some serious pro work! Amazing.

[@spaceapproval6823]

Im guessing the time to reply maybe over but I am currently using cement blocks shaped like elephant feet, with out fastening to the house as it would require a permit in my region of Ontario. Could I trouble you to show us possibly a video with this kind of setup? As my deck is under two feet as well. If not no worries thank you for this video it's incredible what you've done very inspiring!

[@DIYable]

I don't have that video yet, but I am planning to help my neighbor to use the cement block to build his deck, probably next year. If I remember correctly, for many cities in Ontario, if your deck is lower than 2 feet and you are not fastening to your house (which is what you are using the cement block), you don't need a permit UNLESS your town/city is different. A word of caution, for cement block, please DO NOT build a Pergola like I do, it would be dangerous since you are not anchor to the ground.

[@menelek16bc]

The craftsmanship is superb, hats off to you sir.

[@jameslopez4222]

I have a feeling this guy has done this two, three, a hundred times before. Not even Bob Villa has that many tools.

[@thomasrossi31]

I think he’s in witness protection. Always covering his face. 😆

[@StephenCunliffe]

At 6:53 you show "DO NOT USE" for the joist guard... just wondering why?

[@DIYable]

Check out part 10 of the DIY deck series, it's in the description.

[@Payaso_M13]

Love the ending I do have a 9 to 5 job like many of you if I can do so can you. Great job and skill you have.

[@carloscastillo8496]

Awesome, excellent work, I love the way it looks like so congratulations for your hard work you are a professional

[@Trendsetta68]

Absolutely fantastic craftsmanship !!! 😇👍🏼

[@hardkore360]

amazing job one man army! for the bbq tile I would have added some of those fancy edges on the top portion, OR would have bullnosed the top edges, this way water drips right off instead of seeping into the mortar over time, I know minor critique in a monumental task!

[@kingadamus8820]

I mean does really explain much but that's an awesome freaking deck.

[@DIYable]

Check out the description..

[@rickyedwards5480]

The title of this video is vary misleading!

[@donghan6974]

I guess your office job pay you well :)

[@johnwilson1815]

That is huge and I would have thought there are local LA authority rules on the size/ height you can have something in your garden especially as it dominates other properties.

[@DIYable]

Check out the description for more details on permit related concerns. Indeed, the city building inspector came and also checked zoning, the conclusion is.. no permit was required.

[@peteryeung111]

"If yen can cook, so can you! " You are an inspiration to us diyers. However, your skills are above average if not pro. Fellow Canadian here. Thanks for sharing.

[@DIYable]

Glad that I have inspired you!!! DIY is part of life in Canada!

[@peteryeung111]

We are blessed to learn and buy almost anything to build. If you can do it, so can we, maybe not as nice. 😁🙏🏻 Just Subscribed. Cheers.

[@patsarmiento9546]

I enjoy watching professional working like this! The protocol of following size, and measurement and safety! Well done

[@kyrajai]

Stunning job mate. And a pleasure to watch, thanks for this great upload

[@traviswilliams9506]

Beautiful work but 3 yrs? I would have been divorced 9 months into that one

[@DIYable]

LOL... Even my wife was fine, I guess my neighbors got very annoyed in those years... Oh well..

[@brendanlaird5831]

I was excited until you mentioned it took three years and started pulling out tools I've never seen before.

[@CafeSquirrel]

Why build a deck in such a tiny yard space anyways? Seems like a waste of effort.

[@DIYable]

LOL.. I wish I had a bigger yard, ideally a farm house with couple acres sounds good to me. Unfortunately, I am in a suburb where the city and builder trying to build houses so close to each other..... Having a decent size yard is a luxury. LoL

[@MrRayMac1963]

This guys got serious skills. But I’m equally impressed by his dedication to the filming and editing. He probably added another 50% in time to capture this.

[@01AceAlpha]

Joist hangers are perfect. I had to argue with my contractor because I wanted a lower deck with no railing required. He couldn’t comprehend it. I also insisted on hurricane straps for our covered deck portion. He again stated wind wasn’t a concern because code didn’t require it. We live just off the lake in Niagara. Every time we get a wind storm I’m happy I have those straps or else my roof would end up in OZ!

[@DIYable]

Joist hangers requires a lot more time and money (especially if you use proper structural screws), glad you insisted on hurricane straps!! As our Canadian hero Mike Holmes always said "There is nothing wrong in exceeding code", I totally agree with this line.

[@scottallen606]

pretty amazing finished project! Attention to detail AND wide variety of skills used did not go unnoticed.

[@codeninja1]

This deck is now worth $80k with all that lumber being used lol

[@marcuseldermac]

Amazing work! But....I'm pretty sure people no longer understand the definition of what a DIY project is, because this ain't one of 'em! 😆

[@jebatismamaison]

Merci pour cette vidéo, je pense que ma vidéo qui explique comment construire une pergola bioclimatique en bois pourrait intéresser vos abonnés. A bientôt. Jean-Luc

[@rbdworks4342]

Crazy good work.

[@nicolegodin1057]

What a great worker- I would have watched for another hour ❤️

[@DIYable]

Awesome! Thank for watching!

[@AlexN2022]

a permit will be needed in some, if not most, locations. This is outside - your town assessor will notice it next time he comes around - the town can fine you a pretty bunch of $$. So do talk to your commissioner/inspector first.

[@DIYable]

About the inspector question, I have some details in the description of the video. The building inspector came and told me permit is not needed. Yes, I agree, in some town, it may require a permit.

[@AlexN2022]

@@DIYable yes, I'd read that. You were lucky to live in a town that doesn't require a permit (not so lucky with your neighbors?). In some towns, decks lower than 30" don't need a permit, in others, any work on the frame needs a permit. My point was: do check, and don't just rely on the bylaws (they're a mess of a document) - call the inspector.

[@alexniakanirealestatebroke9988]

Very inspirational video Thank you

[@DIYable]

You are welcome!

[@nightrocker91]

This is impressive af. You absolutely killed it sir. Youve been GOATED

[@MyHappyHome]

A M A Z I N G!!! Turned out beautiful 😍

[@bigdaddyyc]

Awesome videos! how does the shade do in the winter with the snow load?

[@DIYable]

I take it off for winter.. no way it's going to hold for Canadian winter.

[@Cyber4499]

Wonderfully done and explained well 👌

[@nica.rivera]

This is truly amazing. Thanks for sharing.

[@02DCorona]

Incredible talent. Ur gifted. Beautiful project 👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻

[@charlesrocks]

You engineered the fuck out of that deck.

[@DIYable]

LOL... I believe over engineering is better than under...

[@manolo4629]

Genial 👍!!!

[@banzaiib]

DIY... step 1. Buy $20,000 worth of tools... step 2. Draw a circle. step 3. build the rest of the f'ing deck

[@johnhaught2996]

What design software did you use for this?

[@DIYable]

Indeed, that was not a deck design software, It was a 3D rendering software called "Sketchup Free version" it used to owned by google. Make sure download the FREE version. There is a learning curve on how to use it. However, it does give me the visualization of what it should look like. I think Professional Deck builders don't use Sketchup, but for DIY I believe it does the job.

[@Paul-if1jq]

What a tradesman, bloody amazing work

[@johnlennonghost6238]

No Freaking Way!!!!! You are Super-Human…No one (expect You) could ever pull this of well…looking that Fantastic!!! You’re Amazing and I’m tired, just watching a 15 minute Video!!! You must’ve had some Great Training at an early age. GOD Bless!!!

[@philw3953]

That's way over engineered. Took him three years cause he was busy building skyscrapers . DIY lol

[@graystreakofmadness]

Totally impressed with your impeccable building. I’m looking for an angle like you! Except older. I have a tiny house in Northern New England.

[@DIYable]

Thanks.. keep looking..

[@DjdoubleedgeRegg]

Professional DIY 👀 How about I hire you to come build this exact setup for me???

[@gurubhaikhalsa9337]

Carpentry, metal work, electric, landscaping, design....."if I can do it so can you!"?????? Are you kidding me??