Redi-Footing

Easy Deck and Shed Footings

deck planning

Essential Tools and Equipment for Building a Deck or Shed

With the right gear, you can work efficiently, ensure accurate results, and avoid unnecessary setbacks.

Building a deck or shed can be an exciting DIY project that adds value to your home and creates functional outdoor space. But before you begin construction, having the right tools and equipment is crucial for ensuring the project goes smoothly. With the right gear, you can work efficiently, ensure accurate results, and avoid unnecessary setbacks. Whether you’re a seasoned DIYer or a first-time builder, this guide will walk you through the essential tools and equipment you need to get the job done right.

1. Measuring and Layout Tools

Accurate measurements are the foundation of any construction project. Before any wood is cut or holes are dug, ensure you have these essential measuring and layout tools:

  • Tape Measure: A high-quality 25-50 foot tape measure will be your best friend during the project. It’s essential for measuring lumber, setting post distances, and ensuring all dimensions are correct.
  • Speed Square: For marking straight lines, making precise angles, and ensuring square corners, a speed square is an invaluable tool.
  • Chalk Line: A chalk line helps mark long straight lines on large surfaces, ensuring accurate board placement and cutting.
  • Level: A four-foot level is perfect for making sure your posts, boards, and framing are perfectly level and plumb. Smaller torpedo levels can help with tighter spaces.
  • Laser Level: If you want to take your measurements to the next level, a laser level will project level lines over longer distances, ensuring everything stays aligned throughout the project.

2. Cutting Tools

Once everything is measured and laid out, you’ll need cutting tools to prepare the materials.

  • Circular Saw: A circular saw is an absolute must for cutting lumber to length. With its versatility and power, this tool can handle most of the cutting needs during deck or shed construction.
  • Miter Saw: For precise angled cuts, such as for framing or decking boards, a miter saw is an excellent addition to your toolkit.
  • Jigsaw: If your project includes curves or custom shapes, a jigsaw will give you the precision you need for more intricate cuts.
  • Hand Saw: While power tools do the heavy lifting, having a sharp hand saw on hand for quick cuts or finishing up a job can be incredibly useful.

3. Digging and Foundation Tools

A solid foundation is key to ensuring the longevity of your deck or shed. Here’s what you’ll need to get the foundation in place:

  • Post Hole Digger: Whether you’re building on concrete footings or using post supports, you’ll need a post hole digger or auger to dig deep holes for your foundation.
  • Shovel: Even with a post hole digger, a sturdy shovel will help with clearing dirt and leveling the ground where your deck or shed will be built.
  • Tamper: To ensure the ground is level and compact, a tamper can compress the soil and create a sturdy base for your footings.
  • Concrete Tools: If you’re pouring concrete footings, you’ll need a wheelbarrow, a mixing tool or drill, and a trowel to spread and level the concrete.

4. Fastening and Assembly Tools

You’ll need to secure your materials together, so make sure you have the following fastening tools:

  • Drill/Driver: A powerful cordless drill or impact driver is crucial for drilling pilot holes, driving screws, and attaching hardware. Make sure you have a variety of drill bits and driver bits to accommodate different screw sizes.
  • Hammer: A sturdy hammer is essential for driving nails and other fasteners into place.
  • Nail Gun: If you’re working on a larger deck or shed, a framing nailer or finish nailer can make the process of nailing boards much faster and easier.
  • Screws and Nails: You’ll need plenty of outdoor-grade screws and nails, especially galvanized or stainless steel to prevent rusting. Be sure to have a variety of sizes for different tasks.

5. Safety Equipment

Don’t overlook safety gear when working on a construction project. Proper protection can prevent injuries and help you work with peace of mind.

  • Safety Glasses: When cutting wood, using power tools, or working with fasteners, always wear safety glasses to protect your eyes from flying debris.
  • Hearing Protection: Power tools can get loud. Protect your hearing with earplugs or earmuffs, especially during prolonged use of saws and drills.
  • Gloves: Work gloves will protect your hands from splinters, cuts, and other injuries while handling materials.
  • Dust Mask or Respirator: When cutting wood or working with concrete, wearing a dust mask or respirator will help protect your lungs from inhaling harmful dust particles.

6. Finishing Tools

Once the deck or shed is assembled, finishing tools will help you put the final touches on the project.

  • Sanders: A power sander can smooth rough edges on wood and prepare the surface for painting or staining. An orbital sander is often preferred for large areas, while a detail sander can work on tight spaces.
  • Paint Brushes and Rollers: If you’re painting or staining your deck or shed, having a variety of brushes and rollers on hand will help you achieve a smooth, even finish.
  • Caulking Gun: A caulking gun can help seal any gaps between boards, joints, or around windows and doors in a shed, preventing water from seeping in.

7. Specialty Equipment

Depending on the specific deck or shed you’re building, you may also need some specialty tools or equipment.

  • Pry Bar: A pry bar is useful for demolition work or adjusting and removing boards during installation.
  • Clamps: When assembling frames or aligning boards, having a few clamps on hand can help hold everything securely in place while you work.
  • Ladder: If you’re building a raised deck or constructing a tall shed, a sturdy ladder will allow you to reach higher areas safely.

Conclusion

Building a deck or shed requires the right combination of planning, skill, and tools. Having these essential tools and equipment on hand will not only help you complete the project efficiently but also ensure it’s built to last. While some tools may be more specialized, the investment is worthwhile, as they can be reused for future projects. Before starting your build, take inventory of your tools, gather everything you need, and prioritize safety at every step. With the right preparation, your deck or shed will be a success that enhances your outdoor space for years to come.

How to Build a Deck or Shed on a Budget Cost-Saving Tips and Tricks

Cost-Saving Tips and Tricks

Building a deck or shed can be a rewarding project, but it can also put a strain on your wallet if you’re not careful. However, with some strategic planning and smart choices, it’s entirely possible to build your dream outdoor structure without breaking the bank. Here are some essential tips and tricks for keeping costs down without sacrificing quality.

1. Plan and Budget Carefully

The first step to any successful project is proper planning. Before you start building, take the time to sketch out your design and create a detailed budget. This will help you determine exactly how much material you’ll need, what tools are required, and where you can cut costs without compromising the integrity of the build.

Use online calculators and free design tools to visualize your deck or shed and determine the size and scope of the project. Keeping your design simple and straightforward will save on materials and labor. A well-thought-out plan also minimizes the risk of costly mistakes and rework down the line.

2. Choose Affordable Materials Without Sacrificing Durability

When building on a budget, it’s essential to find a balance between cost and durability. Pressure-treated lumber is a great option for deck framing and shed construction, as it’s relatively inexpensive and resistant to rot and insects. Composite materials, while more expensive initially, offer long-term savings due to their durability and low maintenance.

For sheds, consider using plywood or oriented strand board (OSB) for walls and roofing. These materials are less expensive than traditional lumber but still provide strong, reliable protection from the elements. You can also save by opting for simple gravel or concrete pavers as a foundation for your shed instead of pouring a full concrete slab.

3. Save on Footings with RediFooting

One of the most labor-intensive and costly aspects of building a deck or shed is setting the footings. Traditional concrete footings require a significant investment of both time and money. Each footing hole can require up to five bags of cement, totaling around 350 pounds of concrete per hole. Not only does this add up quickly in material costs (around $50-$60 per hole), but it also means heavy lifting and hours of labor mixing and pouring concrete.

Then, after pouring the concrete, your project is on hold for two to three days while you wait for it to cure, assuming the weather cooperates. And if you’re a professional builder, you already know your valuable time would be better spent elsewhere.

4. Reuse and Recycle Materials

Another great way to save money is by reusing materials you may already have on hand or sourcing recycled materials from other projects. Check local salvage yards, Craigslist, or Facebook Marketplace for leftover decking boards, framing lumber, or even windows and doors for your shed. Reclaimed wood can also add a rustic, charming aesthetic to your deck or shed at a fraction of the cost of new materials.

Reusing materials not only cuts costs but also reduces waste, making your project more eco-friendly. Just be sure to inspect any used materials carefully to ensure they are still in good condition and suitable for use in your build.

5. Do It Yourself, but Know When to Call in a Pro

One of the most significant cost-saving strategies when building a deck or shed is doing the work yourself. Labor costs can account for a large portion of the total project budget, so taking on the job as a DIY project can save you hundreds or even thousands of dollars.

However, it’s essential to know your limitations. If the project requires complex tasks like electrical work, advanced carpentry, or plumbing, it may be worth hiring a professional to handle those aspects of the build. Mistakes in these areas can lead to expensive repairs and safety hazards down the line, so it’s better to invest in a pro when needed.

6. Buy Materials in Bulk

If your deck or shed project requires a large amount of lumber, screws, or other building materials, consider buying in bulk to save money. Many suppliers offer discounts for bulk purchases, and buying everything at once can reduce trips to the store, saving both time and gas money.

You can also check for sales at your local home improvement store or even online suppliers. Seasonal sales, end-of-line products, and bulk packages can all offer significant savings if you plan your project accordingly.

7. Opt for Simple Designs

The more elaborate the design, the more it will cost in both materials and labor. While it’s tempting to include features like multiple levels, built-in seating, or fancy railings, keeping your design simple will keep costs down. A straightforward rectangular deck or shed can still be beautiful and functional, especially with the right choice of materials and finishes.

If you’re set on incorporating custom features, consider adding them later when your budget allows. Building in stages can spread out costs and make the project more affordable in the long run.

8. Finish It Yourself

Once the main construction is complete, there’s no need to hire a professional to finish your deck or shed. Staining, painting, and sealing are tasks that are easy to do on your own with a little patience. By handling the finishing touches yourself, you can save on labor costs and put your personal stamp on the project.

Be sure to choose high-quality finishes that will protect your deck or shed from the elements and prolong the life of the structure. While premium finishes might cost more upfront, they will save you money over time by reducing the need for frequent maintenance and repairs.

Conclusion

Building a deck or shed on a budget is entirely possible with the right strategies in place. By planning carefully, choosing affordable materials, saving time and money with innovative products like RediFooting, and doing as much of the work yourself as possible, you can create a durable, attractive outdoor space without breaking the bank. Focus on quality where it matters most, and you’ll enjoy the results of your labor for years to come.

Keys to Building a Safer Deck – Part 1

When built the right way, a deck should last at least fifteen years before requiring repair or updates. Of course, this depends on the materials you’ve chosen to use to build your deck. And that’s why it’s so important to understand each product you use in your deck’s construction, from the wood or composite decking to the railings, footings, and fasteners.

However, when your deck is NOT built right because someone has cut corners or there’s a lack of knowledge, you will not only have a deck with a limited lifespan, but you (or your contractor) will be putting yourself, your family, and guests in danger.

Follow the Proper Approval Requirements in Your City or Town and Schedule a Safety Inspection

As mentioned in another article, the planning of your deck building project is just as important as the actual construction. The fact is, the building of a deck can be completed in a week or two, and sometimes less. But you should take at least that much time for the planning of the construction. 

The planning should include not only researching the building codes and understanding what is required to build your deck the right way, but also utilizing the knowledge and expertise of your local building inspector.

Your local building department is responsible for the regulation and communication of deck building requirements, from the soil at the bottom of your footing to the width of your railings.

You should always submit your deck plans as accurately and with as much information as possible. This will allow your building inspector to provide feedback on your initial plans before a single footing is set, ensuring you are building to safety codes before the building process has begun.

If, by chance, your deck is not planned to code, you will receive instruction on what changes need to be made.

Once your plans are approved and you pay the permit fee, your inspector will either schedule site visits, or ask that you call at various phases, so the deck may be inspected. These site visits will often put your project on hold, depending on the inspectors availability, but are critical to ensuring your deck is built the right way from the start.

Don’t Cut Corners

Often, especially when a deck is being built on a budget, corners are often cut to not only save time, but to save money. When you start to add up the costs of all the required materials and it appears it’s going to cost more than expected, a do-it-yourselfer may look for ways to cut costs. This can include using less fasteners or brackets, framing with smaller pieces of lumber than is required (for example, purchasing a 2×6 joist vs a 2×8 that’s required), or not digging a footing to frost depth to save on the cost of concrete. (Note, the best way to save on the costs and labor is to use RediFooting deck footings, of course!)

Cutting corners to save time and money might seem like a good idea in the short term, but by doing so, you’ll be cutting the lifespan of your deck, and increasing the likelihood of a dangerous accident that can harm you and others using your deck.

Set Footings Below the Frost Line

The frost line in the depth at which the soil freezes in the ground. When footings aren’t set deep enough, especially in certain soils simply don’t drain well, they are susceptible to frost heave, running the risk of the footing being pushed up from the ground, increasing the risk of structural damage to a deck.

That’s why it’s essential the hole for a footing is dug below the frost line, so the bottom of a footing rests on soil that never freezes and helps avoid the problems that can occur when the frozen soil pushes up the footing.

Soil with excessive clay content tends to be more susceptible to frost heave, whereas more sandy, well-drained soils aren’t as prone to freezing to a point where the soil expands.

This is why it’s critical that holes for deck footings extend below the frost line. 

Choose Proper Fasteners

One of the more common issues with poorly built decks is the use of nails instead of screws. Of course, the ease of hammering nails into wood compared to the often tedious labor involved in driving hundreds of screws is obvious. But that doesn’t make it the right choice.

You would think nails would be fine for framing or when attaching deck boards. Afterall, nails are used in house framing, and have been used for hundreds of years.

But the fact is, the framing of a house is not exposed to water and moisture. (At least it’s not supposed to be.) A deck, on the other hand, is exposed to all elements of weather 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. That means the wood swells and shrinks, changing form from day-to-day, and from season to season. As these changes to the wood occur, the nails loosens and water is allowed into the holes. This causes the overall structure of the deck to weaken.

The fact is, nails are an inferior fastener compared to other available options, including screws that “bite” into the wood to create an everlasting hold.

But even if you choose to use screws over nails, keep in mind that all screws are not created equal. That’s why you’ll find so many options when it comes to buying fasteners. When building with today’s pressure treated lumber, the copper content in the wood can quickly corrode metals used to manufacture some available fasteners that at one time could be depended on to be corrosion-resistant. 

It’s important to only use fasteners proven effective against corrosion. Using the wrong fastener for your deck building project can cause safety issues over time.

Should You Use Composite Decking When You Build Your Deck?

Decking made from alternative materials such as composite lumber and PVC has been a large part of the deck building market for many decades, with composites being constantly improved to a point where composite are well worth considering for any deck building project.

In addition to the various styles and colors available, composite decking offers warranties in some cases going beyond even twenty-to-thirty years, or even for the life of your home. Although the cost of composite decking materials typically cost more upfront than your standard PT lumber, a warranty that gives you carefree ownership for as long as you live in your home will often make a lot of sense in the long run, even when the initial investment may be a little higher.

Composite decking often utilizes post-consumer waste in the manufacturing process, utilizing a blend of recycled materials and wood-pulp fibers. The plastic material used is what makes composites both rot and insect resistant without harsh chemicals and treatments often required to make wood products equally rot and insect resistant.

When composites were first introduced to the professional and DIY building market, the options were limited and, frankly, not very appealing. And without a proven track record outside of the manufacturer’s promises, there was no way to know, first-hand, of how long composites could actually last without taking the company’s word for it.

But after many decades in the marketplace, many composite decking materials have proven to be long-lasting and, in many cases, better alternatives to wood decking.

Some of the pros of using composite decking include the ease of which they can be installed. Cutting and drilling is often easier, and many now come with their own installation and fastening kits to simplify installation even further. Plus, there is rarely (if ever) any finishing, sanding, or staining required.

Composite decking is undoubtedly a low-maintenance option. 

Popular composite decking manufacturers

TREX® https://www.trex.com/

As one of the leaders and original manufacturers in composite deck and building materials, Trex® was actually formed as a company through the buyout of a division within the Mobil Corporation back in 1996.

According to their website, they were the first company to use recycled plastics, such as bags, combined with scrap wood. TREX® created the first generation of composite decking. Today, TREX® decking is made with ninety-five percent recycled materials. (And they claim on their website that since they started the company, they have not cut down a single tree.)

In 2010 TREX® released their TRANSCEND® line of composite building materials with a twenty-five year guarantee against both fading and staining. And since 2010, TREX® has released numerous lines of building options, including materials for railings, pergola construction, outdoor lighting, and even recently introduced steel framing that will never rot, sag, or warp like wood.

TimberTech® (An AZEK® company) https://www.timbertech.com/

Timbertech® is AZEK’s® composite decking line of composite building materials and, like TREX, one of the original manufacturers of composite decking.

TimberTech® deck boards are manufactured to mimic the natural color, grain, and shape of real wood using environmentally-friendly engineering.

By capping the composite decking with polymer material, these protective caps wrap around the composite material to not only allow an exceptional wood-look, but provides thorough protection from mold, mildew, and moisture to avoid damage that occurs with real wood.

According to the TimberTech® website, their decking products utilize a range of 54-80% recycled materials (depending on the specific product line). They claim to have diverted roughly 290 million pounds of waste and scrap from ending up in landfills in 2019. 

CALI Bamboo BamDeck® https://www.calibamboo.com/composite-decking.html

Cali Bamboo™ is a direct-to-consumer flooring and decking company that manufactures two different decking products.

BamDeck® is their original decking product made of 60% recycled bamboo fibers and 40% recycled High-density polyethylene plastic. 

And because bamboo is an extremely durable building material, it’s the bamboo fibers used in the composite that provides the strength and density to make BamDeck decking stronger.

According to the Cali Bamboo™ website, third-party tests in accordance with ASTM (formerly known as American Society for Testing and Materials) regulations have found BamDeck® to be at least 3.6 times as strong as other composites made from plastic deck material.

BamDeck 4G® (their latest line as of 2020) is manufactured to have a more modern, matte finish and comes in both wide & standard widths.

TruOrganics® Composite Decking

TruOrganics® Composite Decking is manufactured with rich colors and authentic hardwood texturing. What the company describes as a “next generation composition and 3G core” that is strong and resilient. The composite is wrapped on all four sides (many composites leave the bottom exposed) with distinct rays and knots while guarding against stains, scratches, snow, and sun damage. 

The composite decking is geared toward the DIY homeowner, with a simple-to-install, secure fastener system hidden underneath the decking during installation.

TruOrganics® is made of one-hundred-percent recycled materials (60% recycled wood fibers, and 40% high density plastics).

There are dozens of other composite and non-wood decking manufacturers out there, and it’s worth exploring your options when deciding what materials to use to build your deck. You should consider the costs, durability, style, and colors available in addition to the installation, sustainability, and available warranty when considering all of your options. 

Three Tips for Building a Better Deck

(c) Can Stock Photo / kittichai

Building a deck can be a lot of fun and, when compared to other home improvement projects, is relatively easy to accomplish with a little research to improve your overall building skills.

But as someone who has been involved in deck building for over twenty-five years, there are certain things homeowners and contractors do that improve the entire process overall. These steps not only make building easier, but will give you peace of mind knowing your deck will last a long time.

Tip Number One: Give Yourself Enough time to Thoroughly Research Materials

When it comes to the materials you can use to build your deck, the options are, for the most part, limitless. On one end, you have real wood such as pressure treated lumber and cedar. On the other you have man-made materials such as composites and PVC and more man-mades coming on the market all the time.

The difference in all the available materials is not only the wide range of costs and how the deck will look once it’s complete, but also in how it’s built. For example, the number of joists needed for exotic hardwoods vs a flexible composite piece of decking can vary. That means, in some cases, certain composites may require additional lumber built into the frame.

Different woods may also require different protective treatments, and some may need to be treated more often than others. Composites and PVC decking often require less maintenance, but the cost of the actual materials plus the hardware required for installation can significantly increase the cost of your deck, overall.

That’s why it’s important to narrow down your options as much as possible during the planning stage and have a good understanding of the pros and cons of each material option you’re considering.

Tip Number Two: Take the Steps Up Front to Prevent Water Damage Later

One of the keys to preventing water damage to your deck or house is to use proper spacing to ensure water will not become trapped between two or more pieces of wood. Using proper spacing between your deck boards, your ledger and the material (on your house) you’re attaching it to, and your deck posts is critical to preventing future water damage. Water will always find a way to escape, whether it evaporates or finds its way into the wood against a home. 

If you are indeed attaching your deck to the ledger board on your house, without both flashing and proper spacing between your deck and the ledger board you’ll attach to your house, the water will become trapped. And once it becomes trapped, the only way water will find its way out will be through the house, eventually rotting the wood and weakening the construction of your deck and your home.

There are different types of flashing for different applications. Spacing devices can be purchased, or you can make them yourself from a material that will not rot or decay (PVC, for example).

No matter what you decide, spacing and flashing are critical to preventing water damage.

The same case can be made for your deck posts and allowing them to come in contact with a concrete footing. There must be enough space to prevent water from being trapped between the wood and your footing, especially if you use concrete, which can often hold water that can eventually weaken both the post and the footing. Of course, we recommend you skip the concrete entirely and use RediFooting deck footings, high-strength plastic footings that are actually stronger than concrete.

Tip Number Three: Use (or Make) a Jig for Proper Spacing When You’re Building Your Deck

Spacing on your deck is critical. From the joists to the decking to the railings, keeping your spacing consistent every time will make a big difference not only on the quality of your construction, but to the way your deck looks once it’s complete.

Most of the measurements used on a deck will seem repetitive. That’s why a good tip is to either purchase or make your own spacers or jigs for everything from baluster spacing to decks and even for aligning the joists you’ll install (typically) sixteen inches on-center.

Some of the spacing is more important than others. Once example of this is the space you leave between your decking boards. Because when installing decking, you need to ensure there’s enough space for water to drain from the top of the deck. If the board are too tight, water will sit on the deck and try to find it’s way into your deck or home. But you also don’t want to leave too much space between the decking boards. Because if your spacing is too wide, chair legs and even the thin point of a high heel could get stuck and cause a fall, especially over time as boards shrink and spacing tends to open up. That’s where a deck spacing jig like this one for around $7 on Amazon comes in handy.

A decking spacer is recommended, which can be purchased or you can make one yourself by simply cutting a wedge out of scrap lumber. In fact most of the spacers and jigs you’ll want to use to build your deck can be made out of scrap wood.

These three tips are just a few of the simple basics that can make a big difference as you’re building your deck and for the generations ahead you’ll expect to enjoy your construction project.