Squaring Up A Deck Frame

First he tacks a double joist hanger to one end of the ledger and slips a side rim joist into place.

Squaring up a deck frame.

As with all structures a long lasting durable and solid deck depends on a proper foundation. This is a crucial step that must be taken when building a house or when framing a simple deck. Obviously the more square the frame the better. Some guys gals prefer to use the 3 4 5 method or the cross over method i use both.

If they don t push the two corners that are further away the long measurement back together a little and remeasure. Compare the opposite lengths of the perimeter of squares and rectangle forms these lengths should be the same. Then he marks the top of the ledger 3 feet from the corner and the top of the side rim. Measure again before and after your first deck board is installed and every few boards as well to ensure it stays square while building.

A sagging collapsing or crooked deck is not only unsightly but also potentially dangerous. A common mistake with diy ers is to forget to square the frame up or box. It s a good idea to mark joist locations on the ledger and on the front facing rim joist before installation when you can lay the framing members side by side on a pair of sawhorses. If the measurements match your frame is square.

Once installed it acts as a guide for a deck frame that s level and square. The single most important framing member is the ledger board. Speed squares and framing squares are helpful tools for using in construction builders often use them to check the layout. Anyone wants to learn the way to square a deck should know the 3 4 5 method as many builders often use it to make sure they are building a square deck.

3 4 5 rule to ensure square layouts. Using a square and a 4 level will also help verify that your deck form is level. Slight tolerances can be adjusted before the joists are installed to prevent exaggeration.