Basic, Important Considerations in Planning a Deck Attachment to House

Envision the size you would like and that fits your family's needs. Then measure the house wall on which you plan to attach the deck.

Determine the sun, shade, and wind that will affect deck's placement and make plans for any additional enhancements, i.e., latticed cover.

Sketch a plan of the deck with dimensions.

Check with your local building department to verify that the design meets all local building codes and requirements. If OK'd, you may pay a fee for a building permit with a time limit. An inspector may visit to examine your construction. This varies from community to community.

You may want to review your design with an architect.

Experienced, informed, and helpful Sutherlands personnel will gladly answer any questions. Check our Locations page for store nearest you.

Determine railing choices. Railings are mandatory on all decks over two feet high and also recommended on lower decks.

Before excavating, call local utilities for underground electric, water, and sewer line locations as well as any dry wells, cesspools, or septic tanks.

Clean away all trees, shrubs, grass, big rocks, and all debris from decksite before you order any material.

Even if deck is redwood or cedar, the ground-contact posts are better with pressure-treated lumber.

Contact National Weather Service for frost line depth in your area.

Use galvanized connectors and nails.

Protect your eyes while hammering or using any saws. Wear a dust mask when cutting lumber.

Wash hands after handling pressure-treated lumber. Do not burn treated lumber.

Observe all safety precautions.