Beams:
Beams are set horizontally parallel to the decking. Deck beams hold the weight of the deck.

Joists:
Joists appear in between the beams. They are usually 1 to 2 inches apart and are used to distribute the weight of the deck.

Decking:
Material that is laid over the joists to create the deck's floor.

Balusters or railings:
Railings are usually 36 to 42 inches tall and their spacing is determined by local building codes.

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Drawing Your Deck
Have a basic idea of your desired deck lay-out? Print out grid paper and draw your rough deck plan. But first...

Helpful hints before you start!
1) Using stakes, mark the corners of your imagined deck in the backyard. Take a piece of string and connect the corners of your "deck." Now, take patio furniture (or your kitchen chairs, a table, etc.) and set it inside your deck area. This is a great way to make sure your deck is spacious enough for you, your family and furniture to comfortably fit and move around.

2) Using a tape measure, gather basic measurements for the deck. When drawing this on your grid paper, be sure to give each square an equal dimension (for example 1 square=1 foot).

3) If your backyard slopes, use multiple levels that follow the natural slope of your backyard. Levels create an interesting look and offer additional deck space.

4) Make the steps wide enough. Forty-eight (48) inches is sufficient to allow more than one person to cross the stairs at once.

Stop by any Hahn Ranch Feed & Supply location to speak with a salesperson who will estimate and price the materials you need based on your sketch.

Click Here to print Out grid paper To draw your dream deck.

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Choose Your Decking Material

Ranging from basic to extraordinary, wood decks give you warmth and traditional beauty for your outdoor living spaces. Factors to consider before choosing the type of wood for your deck are intended purpose, exposure, maintenance needed and wear and tear. Price should not be your only guide, because often the lower-priced products need the most maintenance. When choosing your decking material, be sure to factor in the price of regular preserving, staining and/or painting.   CAB Pressure Treated CAB pressure treated goes beyond traditional pressure treated as it is treated to be non-toxic and child-safe. Less corrosive than ACQ treated lumber. Regular maintenance is necessary. Port Orford Cedar Port Orford Cedar is a wood decking product known for it's use in building docks and in the boat building industry. It can be stained or just let it gray naturally. The grain will not raise as with other types of untreated lumber. Western Red Cedar Western Red Cedar is great for decking applications where natural beauty and lasting charm are desired. Western Red Cedar is naturally decay and rot resistant. Composite Decking Born out of the new technology of combining reclaimed plastics with wood by-products, like sawdust, composite decking are another option for homeowners. Composites are low-maintenance, never need staining unless you wish to and installs just like wood using regular tools. They are also splinter, rot and insect free.   Trex www.trex.com Environmentally friendly! Made from a wood & polymer composite that won't check, split or rot. No sealers needed. No UV or insect damage. Splinter-free. Fiberon www.fiberondecking.com Never needs staining (but can be stained if desired). Great for beach & lakefront homes - its textured surface grips even more when wet. Guaranteed for 10 years not to rot, cup, warp or twist. CorrectDeck www.evergrain.com The beauty of wood with the longevity of plastic. Weathers to a light, natural silver-gray color. Never needs staining. Naturally rot & decay resistant. No splintering or warping. WeatherBest www.weatherbest.com WeatherBest pairs the beauty of wood with the performance of polymer resin for a low maintenance deck that's beautiful too. Accessories Putting the finishing touches on and around your deck makes it finally feel like home. Moynihan Lumber offers quality deck accessories like:   Postcaps & Balusters From basic to unusual, Moynihan Lumber can supply you with the right look for your deck. Choose from many different styles. Composite Rails Composite rail systems won't crack, peel or blister. Never needs painting. Lattice Panels Beautiful and functional, lattice panels can provide privacy for your deck. Available in Red Cedar (shown), Pressure Treated and White Vinyl. Timbers Make beautiful retaining walls for the gardens and pathways surrounding your deck with pressure treated landscape timbers or rustic railroad ties. Wall Block Anchor Windsor Stone blocks in natural or tan color make a good choice for landscape projects with curves or straight walls up to two feet in height. Stockade Fencing Available in 6'x8' sections, stockade fencing can provide maximum privacy for your deck space.