Dictionary of Terms: (See Illustration 07)

• Joist - Boards that act as bottom support of top, visible planks
• End Joist - Boards that are on far ends of deck
• Beam - Boards that sit on foundation supports
• Ledger Board - Front board for finishing attachment to lateral joists
• Stringer - End pieces that hold stair steps together
• Tread - Stepping portion of stair steps
• Railing Post - Vertical upright lumber that hold rails
• Guardrail - Lower horizontal board between railing posts
• Top Rail - Upper horizontal board between railing posts
• Cap Rail - Top of all posts and pickets running around deck
• 4x4 Post - Block lumber piece holding beam into concrete footing
• Concrete Footing - Buried below frost line, varies from 24" to 48"

The following is the basic information for building and attaching a deck to an exterior wall of a house. It is only basic information and is not a full outline of every step required. It does not include the actual attachment to the house so be sure to seek professional advice regarding your house's exterior finish and its placement on your land. Some sizing and cutting of lumber will be required.

It is recommended you acquire complete building plans if you are not familiar with construction, and especially if this is your first major lumber project.

Sutherlands Lumber and Home Improvement Center is available to answer your building questions. See our Sutherlands Locations page for the store nearest you or e-mail your questions.

Deck Building instruction books are also available for sale at Sutherlands.