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Deck Build Checklist

Everything you need to plan a deck build: materials to estimate, project steps in order, cost tiers, and quick links to material calculators.

Material Calculators for This Project

Use these calculators before you buy. Get exact material counts for decking boards, post-hole concrete, framing lumber, and gravel base.

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Decking Calculator
Estimate boards →
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Post Hole Concrete
Estimate bags →
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Lumber / Studs
Estimate framing →
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Concrete Footing
Estimate footings →
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Gravel Calculator
Estimate gravel →
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Fence Material
Estimate railing →

Project Steps in Order

Deck construction follows a strict structural sequence. Footings must cure before framing, framing must be complete before decking, and inspections happen at specific milestones.

  1. 1
    Planning, design, and permits: Draw your deck layout, get footing depth requirements from your local building department, and pull permits. Most attached decks require a permit and inspections at the footing and framing stages.
  2. 2
    Layout and string lines: Establish deck corners with batter boards and string lines. Mark post locations. Verify square by checking diagonal measurements.
  3. 3
    Dig and pour footings: Dig post holes to the required frost depth. Set tube forms. Pour concrete and set post bases or embed posts directly. Allow 24–48 hours cure time before loading. Use the post hole concrete calculator for bag counts.
  4. 4
    Ledger board attachment (attached decks): Attach the ledger board to the house rim joist with lag bolts or structural screws through the house sheathing into the rim. Install flashing to direct water away from the house.
  5. 5
    Post installation and beam setting: Set posts in post bases or trim embedded posts to height. Install beams on top of posts using post caps. Check level across all beam spans.
  6. 6
    Joist framing: Install rim joists, then interior joists at 16 inches on center (or 12 inches for composite decking or diagonal layouts). Use joist hangers at all connections. Add blocking between joists at 8-foot intervals for decks over 8 feet.
  7. 7
    Framing inspection: Schedule a framing inspection if required before covering any structural work. Most jurisdictions require this before decking is installed.
  8. 8
    Decking installation: Install decking boards perpendicular to joists (or at the specified angle) with consistent spacing. Use composite or hidden fasteners per manufacturer specs. Use the decking calculator for board counts.
  9. 9
    Stairs and railings: Build stair stringers and treads. Install railing posts, rails, and balusters to code spacing (typically 4 inches maximum baluster gap). Railing height is usually 36 to 42 inches depending on deck height.
  10. 10
    Final inspection and finishing: Schedule final inspection. Apply finish or sealant to pressure-treated lumber if desired. Install any lighting, planters, or built-in seating.

Cost Tiers

Deck costs vary significantly by size, material grade, height, and local labor rates. These tiers describe what each level typically includes — not specific dollar amounts, which vary too widely to be useful without local quotes.

Budget / DIY

Small ground-level deck using pressure-treated lumber. DIY labor. Simple rectangular layout, basic railings, no stairs. Permit may not be required at grade.

Mid-Range

200–400 sq ft elevated deck with pressure-treated framing and composite or cedar decking, code-compliant railings, stairs, and professional installation. Permit and inspections included.

High-End

Large deck (400+ sq ft) with premium composite decking, aluminum railings, built-in lighting, multiple levels or stairs, pergola, and full contractor management. Premium materials throughout.

Costs vary significantly by region and scope. Get at least two to three contractor quotes before committing.

Find a Deck Contractor

Get free quotes from local deck builders. Compare reviews, licenses, and estimates before hiring.

Get Free Quotes on Angi →

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a permit to build a deck?
Most municipalities require a permit for attached decks and for any deck over a certain height or size (often 200 square feet or more than 30 inches above grade). Detached ground-level platforms may be exempt, but rules vary. Always check with your local building department before building — unpermitted decks can create issues when you sell the home and may be required to be torn down.
How deep do deck footings need to be?
Deck footings must extend below the frost line to prevent heaving. Frost depth varies by region — from a few inches in the South to 48 inches or more in northern states and Canada. Your local building department will specify the required footing depth. Footings that are too shallow will shift with freeze-thaw cycles and can cause the deck to rack or fail structurally.
What is the difference between pressure-treated lumber and composite decking?
Pressure-treated lumber is wood infused with preservatives to resist rot and insects. It is less expensive upfront but requires periodic sealing and staining and will eventually gray and check if left untreated. Composite decking is made from wood fiber and plastic — it resists rot, does not require sealing, and holds its color longer, but it costs significantly more upfront and can feel hot underfoot in direct sun.
How much decking do I need for a 12 x 20 foot deck?
A 12 by 20 foot deck is 240 square feet. Add 10 to 15 percent waste for end cuts and pattern waste. For standard 5/4 x 6 deck boards laid perpendicular to the joists, you need approximately 264 to 276 square feet of material. Use the decking calculator on this site for an exact board count based on your board width and spacing.
How many bags of concrete do I need for deck post holes?
The concrete needed per post hole depends on hole diameter and depth. A common 10-inch diameter hole at 42 inches deep uses about 1.5 to 2 bags of 80-lb concrete per post. A 12-inch hole at the same depth uses about 2.5 to 3 bags. Use the post hole concrete calculator on this site for an exact count based on your hole dimensions and number of posts.
What spacing should deck joists be on?
Standard deck joist spacing is 16 inches on center for most decking boards. If using composite decking or laying boards at a 45-degree angle, you may need to reduce spacing to 12 inches on center. Always follow the decking manufacturer's recommendation for joist spacing — going wider than specified can cause boards to flex or bounce under foot traffic.
How long does it take to build a deck?
A simple ground-level deck (200 to 300 square feet) can be built in a weekend or two by experienced DIYers. An elevated deck with stairs and railings typically takes one to three weeks for a professional crew, including time for footing concrete to cure. Permit approval can add days to weeks to the schedule depending on your jurisdiction's backlog.
Disclaimer: This checklist provides general planning guidance only. Requirements, permit rules, and costs vary significantly by location and scope. Always consult licensed contractors and your local building department before beginning construction. See all renovation tools.