A second-story deck needing repairs typically requires eliminating the old deck and starting over. This includes affixing a ledger board to the home with the proper hardware to be sure the deck gets the proper support. Get in touch with the local building authority to begin with to make sure your deck project complies with upgraded construction code and safety requirements.
Contractors or Do-It-Yourself
When you have the necessary building abilities and experience, you won’t have to employ a contractor, since you’re able to complete the project yourself. If you do not have the experience, create a list of three to five possible contractors, since a second-story deck redo is not the job with which to gain DIY abilities. Verify that the contractors possess an active state license by assessing the state’s website for your contractor’s name; also confirm they possess the needed general liability insurance for your project.
Budget and Materials
Create a budget you can work with, and from that, you can determine how much you can spend on the materials for your deck. If the deck is in direct sunlight, take into consideration the material options which add longevity to your deck, like composite decking material, tropical hardwoods or pressure-treated lights materials. Add the hardware, support ledgers, correctly sized posts to your list of materials, and do not forget that the concrete needed for the support posts.
Deck Design
When you are redoing a second-story deck, it’s a good time to soften the deck to update its appearance. Pull your ideas for the deck’s layout on graph paper to scale. You can select from a variety of designs that may include things like curves, curves or numerous levels. If you plan to put in a cover or a pergola, include those ideas on paper at first to determine how well they match the home. If you include a pay or other construction, you may want to get approval from the construction authority and check a professional to ensure structural integrity.
Deck Structure
Even if the preceding deck was on the home when you built it, then you still will need to contact the local building jurisdiction prior to redoing your new deck. You may have to pull out a new license, which usually includes supplying the construction department using a hand-drawn design or blueprint idea. The construction department sends an inspector during construction at particular phases to guarantee compliance with code and safety regulations.
Care and Upkeep
Pick materials that fit the weather conditions that the deck must endure. Wood decks require annual maintenance to make sure they remain safe and protected to use. Seasonally retighten hardware, re-apply stains — about wood decks only — and periodically clean out the deck to make sure its effectiveness and longevity.
