H10 - Build Deck System

Question 1

What is a basic purpose of a deckk?

Answer 1

To provide a level outdoor living space.

They may also be part of a roof system, constructed on carports or garage with a flat roof and use that area as a deck as well.

Question 2

When are railings needed?

Answer 2

Railing are required when the deck is greater than 600 mm above adjacent surfaces. (2 ft)

Question 3

What are the structural components need to build a deck?

Answer 3

Foundation, posts, beams and floor joists.

Joists are sheathed with decking or a subfloor topped with water proof finish material.

Question 4

How much lower are decks constructed than the floor level they serve?

Answer 4

150 mm. usually. preventing water seepage into the interior living space due to ice damming on the deck surface.

Question 5

What are foundations for deckings usually made of?

Answer 5

Typically: Concrete pilings, pads, bocks or strip footings. The means of anchoring the deck posts to the foundation is important, especially for high level decks ( due to possible uplift )

Question 6

What kind dimensional lumber is the substructure of a deck commonly made from?

Answer 6

Dimensional framing set on 140 mm x 140 mm posts.

Poles, pilings and timbers may sometimes be used as well.

Question 7

What size round concrete columns and steel posts may be used to a support a deck?

Answer 7

230 mm diameter round concrete columns or 73 mm diameter steel posts are sometimes used in wooden supports.

Question 8

The rules of construction regarding spans, spacing and foundation work all apply to decks: true or false?

Answer 8

True

Question 9

What is the difference between a deck and a porch?

Answer 9

A porch is roofed and is usually part of entrance

Question 10

Why must decks be sturdily constructed?

Answer 10

Support snow load and large groups of people

Question 11

Decking over garages and living spaces need to be?

Answer 11

Water proof

Question 12

What are four basic structural parts of a deck?

Answer 12

Foundation, posts, beams and joists.

Question 13

Why is anchorage important for high-level decks?

Answer 13

Because of possible wind lift.

Question 14

What is the purpose for cantilevering beams and joists?

Answer 14

Reduces the clear span and makes layout and construction easier.

Question 15

List 3 ways the connections for decks, joists and beams can be made?

Answer 15

Fasteners, connecting brackets and hangers.

Question 16

What is the concern when using a ledger without spacers against the house wall?

Answer 16

Trapped moisture leading to rot (unless protected from moisture using flashing)

Question 17

Why shouldn’t a deck be supported off a cantilevered floor rim joist?

Answer 17

The rim joist would not be connected to the house well enough to support the deck.

Question 18

The distance between spaced decking boards is???

Answer 18

3 to 6 mm spacings.

Question 19

What happens when you deeply countersink nails or screws into the decking?

Answer 19

It will allow water to pool and can lead to rot.

Question 20

What are deck surfaces commonly made of?

Answer 20

Dimensional lumber such as 4 /5” radius edge treated lumber or 2 by 4 cedar.

Usually not T &G lumber for exposed decks as it swells and shrinks with exposure to water and can trap water in the joints which causes rot.

Question 21

What are the benefits of Wood Plastic Composite (WPC)?

Answer 21

It won’t twist, check, crack, splinter or rot and it’s scratch and stain resistant. Less labour - sanding, painting, staining, etc.

Question 22

What do decks around swimming pools require?

Answer 22

Non-skid surfaces.

Question 23

Supporting a deck from a rainscreen wall of a building requires what?

Answer 23

The method must meet the approval of the home warranty provider.

Question 24

How deep is a deck foundation required to be?

Answer 24

It must be as deep as required for the building it serves unless it meets the requirements.

1) Not more than 55 m2 (592 ft2) in area.
2) Not supporting a roof
3) Distance from grade to the underside is not more than 600 mm and when attached to a structure the differential movement of the deck will not adversely affect the structure

Question 25

At the deck will intersection, how high must the flashing extend up the wall and why?

Answer 25

150 mm because of ice damming

Question 26

Will zoning regulations normally let decks extend into side yard setbacks?

Answer 26

In many cases but not all cases.