09/04/2025
📢 PSA for DIY Deck Builders 🚩
I love seeing folks roll up their sleeves and tackle their own deck projects—it’s awesome when you’ve got the drive to build it yourself. But please, don’t cut corners on safety. A few small mistakes can turn into big problems down the road.
⚠️ Some of the biggest issues I run into:
1. No proper support beam/header.
2. Skipping brackets and joist hangers—nails/screws won’t hold long-term.
3. Railings attached the wrong way—should be inside the rim board, blocked, and through-bolted.
4. Railing spindles spaced more than 4” apart.
👉 Other key points:
• Posts should be 6x6 set in concrete footings below frost line, never just pier blocks.
• Use brackets to tie posts to concrete. Footings should be at least 12” round.
• Framing: minimum 2x8, within span limits.
• Composite decks = 12” on center. Wood = 16” on center.
I’ve rebuilt too many decks after accidents, injuries, and even lawsuits caused by poor construction. A few extra hours and a little more money up front is worth protecting your family, friends, and peace of mind.
One last thing: if you build without a permit or ignore safety standards, insurance won’t cover injuries. That means your assets are on the line if something happens.
Not here to pick on anyone—just want you to build safe and smart. If you’ve got questions, my inbox is open. I’ll never charge for advice, just be patient for a reply.