What deck Construction covers
Deck construction is a structural job with a finish on top. The connection to the building, called the ledger, is where decks most often fail, and it is also where water can get into the wall if it is not flashed correctly.
Deck construction is a structural job with a finish on top. The connection to the building, called the ledger, is where decks most often fail, and it is also where water can get into the wall if it is not flashed correctly.
Building decks with the structure, the ledger connection and the drainage detailed before the boards go on.
Waystar carries out this work on residential and commercial property in Brooklyn and across New York City. Every project starts with a look at the building, and the scope, the materials and the figures are written down before anything begins.
When might you need it?
These are the signs owners usually notice first.
- An existing deck that feels bouncy or moves underfoot
- Rot at the point where a deck meets the house
- Boards splitting, cupping or lifting at the fixings
- A rail that flexes when leaned on
- Unused outdoor space that could be a usable room
What the work involves
- Assessment of use, loading and any permit requirement
- Footings sized and set below the frost line
- Ledger fixed to structure and flashed to shed water
- Frame built with correct joist spacing for the decking
- Decking laid with fixings and drainage gaps
- Rail and stairs built to the required dimensions
How the process works
Establish loading and permits
How the deck will be used, and whether it needs a permit, comes first.
Set the footings
Below frost line, sized for the load, because everything above depends on them.
Fix and flash the ledger
The connection to the building is bolted correctly and flashed to keep water out of the wall.
Frame, deck and rail
Joists at the correct spacing, boards with drainage gaps, then rail and stairs.
What you get
- A ledger connection that carries load and sheds water
- Footings below frost line so the deck does not lift seasonally
- A rail and stair that are solid rather than approximate
What affects the scope
- Deck height above ground and whether a rail is required
- Ground conditions and footing depth
- Decking material and its required joist spacing
- Whether a permit is needed for the size or height
This is a preliminary planning range, not a quote. A property visit is required before any price is confirmed.
Frequently asked questions
Why do decks rot where they meet the house?
Because the ledger traps water against the wall when it is not flashed. It is the single most common deck failure and the most avoidable.
Do I need a permit?
It depends on size, height and location. It is checked and identified before work starts.
Which decking material is best?
Timber, composite and hardwood each trade cost against maintenance. What matters more is that the frame beneath suits the material chosen.
Services often needed alongside this
This service is part of Exterior Improvements.