How to Build an 8 x10 Deck for Beginners

Introduction

This tutorial will guide you through the process of building an 8 x 10 treated lumber deck. Designed for beginners, it covers essential steps from layout to finishing touches, ensuring you can create a sturdy and attractive outdoor space.

Step 1: Prepare the Site and Layout

• Use a string line to mark the outside frame of the deck.
• Measure and mark:
  • Length along the house: 9 feet 9 inches
  • Depth from the house: 8 feet
• For each post location, spray a 10 to 12-inch circle around the center line.
• To ensure the layout is square, measure diagonally between corners; the measurements should be equal.

Step 2: Dig the Post Holes

• Dig holes that are:
  • 10 to 12 inches in diameter
  • 42 to 48 inches deep (depth depends on frost level in your area)
• Use a steel digging bar to break up hard ground and post hole diggers to remove loose dirt.
• Cover the holes with ¾ inch plywood for safety.

Step 3: Pour Concrete Footers

• Pour half of an 80-pound bag of concrete into each hole dry.
• Add water and mix with a post hole digger until the mixture is consistent.
• Wait for the concrete to cure overnight.

Step 4: Build the Frame

• Cut a 2x8 board to 9 feet 7 inches for the back band.
• Cut and secure three 4x4 posts using nails and lag screws.
• Place the assembly into the back holes, ensuring the back band is level and the posts are plumb.
• Fill the post holes with the excavated dirt, tamping it down as you fill.

Step 5: Attach Side Bands and Front Band

• Nail the side bands to the back band using four nails.
• Level the front posts and secure them in place.
• Cut the front band to 9 feet 10 inches, and attach it flush to the outside side bands using a four nail pattern.
• Ensure all posts are plumb and check for square by measuring diagonally.

Step 6: Set Middle Post and Fill Holes

• Place the front middle post 39 inches from one end post for stair space.
• Fill the three front post holes with dirt, ensuring they are packed down.

Step 7: Install Joists

• Cut seven 2x8 joists to 7 feet 9 inches.
• Space the joists evenly across the 10-foot span at 15 inches on center.
• Install joist hangers on the back and front bands to support the joists.

Step 8: Build Steps

• Cut stringers using a 2x10 board for the stairs, ensuring a rise of 8 inches and a run of 10 inches.
• Dig two holes for the stair posts, ensuring they are well below frost level.
• Attach the stair stringers to the posts and fill the holes with dirt.

Step 9: Install Deck Boards

• Cut the deck boards (1 inch by 5.5 inches) to size, allowing for a 3/4 inch overhang on each end.
• Use a 3/16 inch drill bit to pre-drill holes to prevent splitting.
• Install the boards tightly with no spacing.

Step 10: Add Railings

• Fit two 2x4s between the posts for the top and bottom rails.
• Cut balusters to 30 inches, chamfer one end, and pre-drill for screws.
• Space balusters evenly and secure them with screws.
• Use a 2x6 for the top cap, rounding edges with a router for a finished look.

Conclusion

Congratulations on building your 8 x 10 deck! Follow these steps for a solid structure that enhances your outdoor space. If you have further questions or need assistance, feel free to reach out. Enjoy your new deck!