Providing the Framework for Fun: Residential Building and Deck Construction
When most people think of homes, outbuildings, and decks, they envision the finished structures. But there’s quite literally a great deal riding on the frames of these buildings and features of the homeowner’s domain. Today, we’ll examine what goes into any such task. While we provide expert residential framing services, this particular article will focus on the needs and requirements of excellent deck construction.
The Proper Start
Basement framing and other types of residential framing, such as building outbuildings or constructing a decking platform, share common features with certain types of commercial structures—namely, they are geared to the needs and uses of humans, rather than heavy industrial processes. However, the codes and safety rules that regulate private projects are slightly less rigorous, since they aren’t intended to withstand or accommodate daily business influxes.
Deck contractors, like other professionals in this field, understand the importance of providing the proper foundation and structure for residential decks. By the time an individual reaches the position of lead contractor, they’ve completed both years of on the job apprentice training and classroom education, an experience capped by certification. These professionals lead teams of experienced workers and also provide training for rising framers.
Some of the most basic duties of these individuals are also the most crucial to success on any job site. Framing professionals are responsible for selecting the proper materials for each task. They then cut and arrange them according to blueprint designs to ensure the perfect finished structure.
Why Not DIY?
While there are many projects that can provide a satisfactory weekend experience for the DIY warrior, decks benefit from professional construction. Safety and structural integrity are primary concerns of contracting teams. But there’s another consideration that many homeowners might overlook. While the codes and laws regulating structures on private property are a great deal less complex and rigorous than those for commercial construction, they still exist and must be followed.
One of the areas many homeowners might overlook in deck construction is the use of proper material precisely cut to follow detailed plans. Good enough is not a term any contracting team ever uses. Once they’ve cut the supporting planks and ensured that foundation posts are correctly installed, these experts also use code-approved fasteners. Many safety violations that unknowing homeowners commit often appear innocuous, such as using improper nails and screws or joists rated for different applications.
The ledger is the guiding board for the rest of the deck frame. Since it is attached directly to the structure of the house, lag bolts are advised, rather than nails or screws. It and the foundation footings are the two most important aspects of an enduring frame. With footings, most expert contractors prefer concrete reinforced with steel, rather than pressure-treated wood stabilized in concrete.
Once the homeowner recognizes how vital these considerations are to building a safe and enduring structure, it makes sense to consult experienced professionals. The finishing touches are an excellent way for DIY enthusiasts to take part in a decking project, but they should delegate structural considerations and adherence to both local and more general building codes to experienced deck contractors. Contact us today at (801) 971-6631 for a free quote.