The real force of deck framing comes from the framing, no of the boards, the railing or the lights Many folks focus only on how their new deck looks, but the framework below is what keeps everything together. Deck framing is the spine of every well built deck, whether you do a little platform or big outdoor living space.

The framework of any deck is made up of four main parts: the posts, the beams, the joists and the deck boards. Do the base first, before work on the top part. If the base is not correctly done, you will have problmes with everything else later.

Deck Framing Basics: Parts, Materials and How to Build

Pressure-treated pine is widely the best and practical choice for deck framing in most climates and budgets. Redwood can be useful in limited situations, but it usually is not as good for the framing. If you use untreated wood, the framing will start to rot after some years.

If you recycle old framing, every part must be pressure treated.

Steel framing is another option. One steel deck framing system is three times coated; first galvanized, then a primer, then a powder coat, and it offers a 25-year warranty that the framing will stay stable. Another system uses interlocking joists and ledger setup, which allows you to build sturdy and safe decks with less effort.

If you know how to work with wood, you can use steel, even for curves. A TimberTech aluminum frame gives a nice, very flat deck, that will last many years.

When you lay the framing, if the diagonal does not measure 10 feet, you must move the string of the outside edge one way or other until it measures correctly. Do small moves and check the measure often. When everything is correctly measured, the side of the framing stands in a 90-degree angle to the house.

Picture framing is a popular technique. Adding a different colored edge gives a unique look. One way is to lay one board through the whole length of every side, and then lay the standard boards perpendicular to the joists.

For boards that run parallel to the joists, you can use blocks between them for support. Joist tape is another layer of protection to stop rot. The picture frame you can do only around the outside perimeter, skipping the side that touches the house.

The Prescriptive Residential Wood Deck Construction Guide gives rules about the spacing of joists, beams, posts, ledger attachment and loads. Most builders follow those rules when they choose the size of beams and joists. Beams are usually deeper than joists, and the ledger board must be at least 2×10. Double all top bearing beams and set them to the posts by notching and through-bolts.