Build your Deck in a Day, for Years of Enjoyment
Are the weeds in your backyard getting too tall? Are you having trouble enjoying the great outdoors at home? If the answer too those questions are “YES”, then it is time for you to – “deck out” your backyard for your-self!
A platform deck can be a great way to enjoy the great outdoors right in your backyard.
And doing it yourself (DIY) can be easier than you think. We know what you are thinking- you don’t have the time. Well, we have some tips and tricks on how you can make your backyard dream into an oasis in a matter of days.
Quick Tips for a Quick DIY build
Day 1:
- Create Your Plan: Design something that fits your lifestyle. You may wonder, does a ground level deck need footings? It does. So be certain to include proper post anchoring as part of your plan. Your local home improvement store may be able to review your plan to ensure your design is sound and to help with the needed materials.
- Follow Local Codes and Regulations: Contact your local building department and homeowner’s association for building requirements and permits. Call the utility company to mark underground lines.
Day 2:
- Gather Your Supplies: Be sure you have all of your building materials and tools ready. Manufacturers of lumber or composite materials offer lists of recommended fasteners and structural hardware. For specialized equipment, like a power auger, just rent it. It’ll save you time and save your back!
- The best time saver? Use expanding foam, instead of concrete for the footing of your deck.
- Prepare Your Area: Level the area as much as possible. Measure and mark your total deck footprint and mark your corner and support posts. Guided by your markings, dig the holes to the required depth.
Day 3:
- Set the Footers: Insert, level and brace the posts in the holes. Now you’re ready to set the footers. With traditional concrete, you’ll need a ton of materials, a lot of energy and some patience. To speed up your project, use an expanding foam like Fast 2KTM Deck Post Anchor. Simply mix the components in the 2-pound bag and pour. The foam pours as a liquid to fully surround the post and fills the hole while penetrating the surrounding soil to provide a solid anchor. It’s set, strong and ready to go in less than 30 minutes!
Day 3&4:
- Complete Construction of the Deck: With posts in place, you can now frame out the deck. Trim the posts. Attach support beams and bracing. Build the floor frame. Add properly secured posts and railings, and finish with the decking. There are many DIY videos on the internet to offer guidance and best practices so your deck will be stable and strong.
Enjoy Your Outdoor Oasis!
Invite guests or sip a cup of java on a quiet Sunday morning. Your deck awaits you!
Still not convinced about the ease and speed of Fast 2K? Check out this link to an article about how Fast 2K has been setting utility poles for years. But as the great saying goes, “You won’t believe it until you try it”- so, get out there and start building today with Fast 2K Deck Post Anchor. You won’t be disappointed. To find out more about how to build a freestanding deck using expanding foam for footings by watching this instructional video. Happy building!