Leveling a deck is a crucial step in ensuring your outdoor space is safe, functional, and visually appealing. A well-leveled deck not only enhances your home’s curb appeal but also prevents tripping hazards and water damage. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to level a deck, ensuring your project is both effective and long-lasting.
Before you begin, gather your tools and materials. You’ll need a long level, shims, a rubber mallet, a tape measure, gravel, and, if your deck is significantly out of level, a string line and level. Having the right equipment ensures your project runs smoothly and safely.
Assessing the Problem
Start by assessing the extent of the leveling issue. Walk around your deck, checking for any significant dips or high spots. Use your long level to measure the slope. If the bubble in the level is more than 1/8 inch off center when placed on the deck surface, it’s time to level your deck.
Next, determine the cause of the unevenness. It could be due to settling soil, improper initial construction, or damage from weather or pests. Understanding the cause will help you address the issue effectively.
Preparation: Clearing the Deck
Before you begin leveling, clear the deck of any furniture, plants, or other obstacles. This will give you a clear workspace and prevent any accidents. If your deck is attached to your house, you may also need to temporarily remove any skirting or trim to access the joists.
Once the deck is clear, inspect the joists and support beams. Ensure they’re in good condition and not rotted or damaged. If you find any issues, they’ll need to be addressed before leveling the deck.
Leveling the Joists
The key to leveling a deck is to level the joists that support the decking boards. Start by finding the lowest point of the deck. At this point, you’ll want to add support to raise the deck up to the desired level.
Using a string line and level, create a straight line across the joists at the desired height. Cut 2×4 or 2×6 pressure-treated lumber to this length. Place these blocks under the joists, using shims to fine-tune the level. Tap them into place with a rubber mallet to ensure a secure fit.
Addressing Uneven Ground
If your deck is sitting on uneven ground, you’ll need to address this before leveling the joists. Uneven ground can cause your deck to settle over time, leading to further leveling issues.
To level the ground, you can use gravel or crushed stone. Spread the material evenly under the deck, using a rake to smooth it out. Ensure the ground is sloped slightly away from the house to prevent water from pooling underneath the deck.
Using Landscape Fabric
To prevent the gravel from shifting over time, consider using landscape fabric. This permeable material allows water to drain while preventing the gravel from migrating. Cut the fabric to fit under the deck, overlapping any seams to prevent gravel from escaping.
Spread a layer of gravel over the fabric, using a rake to smooth it out. Ensure the ground is level and slopes away from the house. You can then proceed with leveling the joists as described earlier.
Leveling the Deck Boards
Once the joists are level, it’s time to level the deck boards themselves. Start by checking the level of each board. If a board is high in the middle, you can use a circular saw to cut a slight groove into the board to lower it. Be careful not to cut too deeply, as this can weaken the board.
If a board is low, you can use a jigsaw to cut a slight wedge out of the underside of the board. This will raise the board up to the desired level. Once you’ve leveled all the boards, check the entire deck with your long level to ensure it’s even.
Congratulations, your deck is now level! Regular maintenance, such as checking for level and addressing any issues promptly, will ensure your deck remains safe and functional for years to come. Enjoy your newly leveled outdoor space, and consider hosting a gathering to celebrate your hard work.
