DIY Deck Checklist

Getting The Job Done

Part of building your dream deck is the prep work – from scoping your backyard to planning where the furniture goes to gathering the right tools. Luckily, Trex® works as easily as timber, with practically all the same tools you use for timber.

All Ready to Go? How To Build a Deck

PLAN YOUR DECK SIZE


1. Decide on the deck’s location:
» Consider whether it's freestanding or attached to the house.

2. Decide on the size of your deck:
» You’ll want to plan the size of your deck around how you’ll use it.
Tip: arrange your patio furniture to determine approximately how much room you’ll need to accommodate it.

3. Now calculate how much decking you’ll need

DOWNLOAD DECKING
CALCULATION PDF

Trex Blueprint Image

Shopping Preparation

When heading to the shop for supplies, it’s best to be prepared with a plan. Have answers prepared for these questions:

What is the area of your deck?
Do some research to calculate the total number of deck boards you’ll need
Are your items in stock, or will you need to place a special order?
Double check any additional tools you’ll need for installation

Tools Checklist

 

  • Carpenter's Level
  • Chalk line
  • Circular saw
  • Circular saw blade
  • Crescent wrench
  • Drills and bits
  • Dust mask
  • Extension cord
  • Framing square
  • Gloves
  • Hoe and hose
  • Pencils
  • Post hole digger
  • Rafter square
  • Safety glasses
  • Shims or spacers
  • Shovel
  • Socket wrench
  • Stakes & batterboards
  • String
  • Tamper
  • Tape measure
  • Tool belt
  • Two-foot level
  • Wheelbarrow

 

Don't Forget

1. Permits
  • Check with your local council for what permits are necessary and any building code requirements
2. Homeowners Association
  • Understand any rules regarding deck size, colour, product type or design
3. What's Underground
  • Check with local utilities companies for the location of any underground cables or wires (a builder often helps with this).