A step-up deck refers more to a design feature—a deck that has multiple levels, with one section being slightly higher than another. It might still be at ground level or low elevation, but with steps to a higher tier (like stepping up from a dining area to a lounge area). It adds visual interest and function but doesn’t necessarily mean the deck is high off the ground.
How You Can Enhance Your Step-Up Deck and the Step-by-Step Breakdown
Category
Details
Deck Materials
Pressure-treated Wood – Made from Douglas fir or southern yellow pine, bug- and rot-resistant.
Cedar – Naturally resistant to insects and rot, soft and easy to cut.
Composite Decking – Combination of wood waste and plastic, low maintenance, 25-50 year warranty.
Redwood – Like cedar, resists insects, requires regular cleaning and refinishing.
Ipe – Hard, dense wood that resists rot and insects but is difficult to work with.
PVC – Made from polyvinyl chloride, doesn’t rot, limited color selection.
Remove enough soil to level sloped sites or sod and organic soil for flat sites.
Improve drainage and prevent weeds with landscape fabric later.
Step 2: Set the Footings
Measure and mark where to dig using spray paint.
Use a posthole digger or auger for depth.
Insert cardboard forms and fill with concrete after leveling.
Install brackets after concrete hardens.
Consider helical piers as an alternative.
Step 3: Attach the Ledger Board
Determine finished deck height and draw a level line.
Anchor the ledger board using structural screws.
Install flashing and tape to prevent water issues.
Step 4: Install Support Posts
Measure post length from top of bracket to top of ledger.
Plumb the posts and fasten into brackets.
Step 5: Install the Beams
Set the beam on top of posts and ensure level contact.
Connect beams to posts using brackets or structural screws.
Step 6: Attach the Upper-Level Deck Joists
Screw angle brackets to joists for flush installation.
Install joist hangers as per manufacturer instructions.
Step 7: Install Blocking and Nailers
Add blocking between joists to prevent twisting.
Install additional blocking around the perimeter.
Step 8: Frame the Lower-Level Deck
Frame the lower level by attaching it to the upper level structure.
Note lower level beams are typically directly on footings.
Step 9: Install the Railing Posts
Install railing posts at least to two structural members.
Use clamps to hold posts and install them at correct heights.
Avoid notching posts that will support safety rails.
Step 10: Install the Deck Boards
Use butyl tape on joists and beams for protection.
Install boards, keeping a uniform gap, and cut to length later.
Use polymer-coated screws and consider renting an auto-feed screw gun.
Step 11: Build Transition Box Steps to the Lower Level
Create a box step for height split between decks.
Attach using structural screws and brackets prior to installing boards.
How to Build a Raised Deck
Step/Item
Details
Raised Deck Overview
Perfect space for outdoor entertaining and relaxing.
Higher than specified inches and attached to the house.
Requires railing and building permit.
Includes the use of a ledger board in design.
Planning and Preparation
Check local building codes.
Call 811 before digging for utilities marking.
Consider type of deck boards (composite or pressure-treated wood).
Bring design ideas to local Home Depot for detailed drawing.
Setting the Ledger Board
Attach ledger to rim joist of the house.
Remove siding in attachment area.
Install self-adhering flashing.
Code-approved fasteners for attachment.
Laying Out Footings
Use batter boards and mason’s strings for layout.
Mark locations for piers and footings with spray paint.
Check for square corners using 3-4-5 method.
Difficulties with Digging
Dig holes below frost line.
Use concrete tubing forms to level holes.
Pour concrete mix into tubing forms.
Place post anchor bolts before cement hardens.
Setting the Posts
Set posts in post bases.
Brace posts plumb with 2x4s.
Cut tops of posts according to design.
Building the Beam
Construct beam from doubled 2x boards.
Align ends of beam with ledger ends.
Installing Joists
Layout joist spacing on rim joists.
Install joist hangers and secure joists.
Add blocking pieces between joists.
Decking Installation
Align first deck board parallel to the house.
Space boards for drainage and airflow.
Drive two fasteners through each board into joists.
Structuring Stair Landing
Layout landing footings using batter boards and mason’s line.
Frame landing with 2x4s and fill with gravel and concrete.
Stair Construction
Lay out stringers per design specifications.
Attach stringers to framing.
Build the upper and lower runs in place.
Installing Railings
Install structural railing posts.
Follow layout indicated on drawings.
Ensure posts are plumb in both directions.
Final Inspections
The building inspector checks various stages of the build.
Complete any remaining safety measures and checks.
Conclusion
In this piece, you learned what a step-up deck is, how to enhance it, and a detailed step-by-step guide to building one. You also explored how to build a raised deck, including preparation, construction, and finishing touches. For more informative guides, stay connected to Buildersviller.
