Decking terminology

What goes into building a deck? Let's find out
Anatomy of a deck

Footings

Concrete columns below grade(the ground) that support the posts and, thus, the deck. On sites where the soil freezes and thaws, concrete is poured in an above-grade form and a cylindrical hole. Footing depth requirements vary from area to area.

Posts

Timbers (usually 4in or 6in) set vertically to support the deck framing. Posts are used on all but the shortest decks. The posts can be cut off below the deck surface, or they may rise above the surface to provide support for railing. Posts may rest on top of concrete footings or they can be set plumb in the hole before the concrete is poured.

Post Anchors

Metal framing connectors that attach posts to piers or footings. They raise the base of the posts slightly above the top of the footing, protecting them from water damage.

Girders/ Beams

Boards directly connected to the posts to create a surface for joists as a foundation for the framing.

Ledger

A board (usually 2in stock) attached to the house to support one side of the deck.

Joists

Horizontal framing boards (usually 2in stock) fastened on top of the beam or flush with the ledger to support the decking. Header joists are fastened to the ends of the deck's interior joists. Rim joists or end joists are the outermost joists perpendicular to the ledger.

Joist Hangers

Metal fasteners that allow you to fasten the joists in place without noticing the ends of the board. A joist hanger secures a joist to a ledger or rim joist.

Bridging

Short pieces of lumber between joists that strengthen the framing. They are designed to prevent the joists from twisting.

Treads/ Steps

The horizontal, stepping surfaces of a stairway.

Risers

Boards covering the vertical spaces between stairway treads. Although shown in the drawing, risers are often omitted on decks and other exterior steps.

Stringers

Long, diagonal framing boards (usually 2in x 12in) that support stair treads. The stair steps are attached to and supported by the stringers.

Decking

2 inch or 1 1/4 inch boards attached to the joists to form the deck floor.

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YOUR PREFERRED DECK BUILDER & EXTERIOR RENOVATOR

You can trust 3 Brothers Decking for your decking needs. We proudly serve Western Washington, including the Greater Seattle Area, and Northern Idaho, with deck installations that bring safety, strength, and style to your outdoor living space. Our design and build services combine expertise, experience, and exceptional service at a competitive price.

Looking for other home construction services?

3 Brothers Decking also provides siding and other home exterior services in and around Seattle, Spokane, and Northern Idaho.

MaisyRailing.com sells complete deck railing kits and parts for cable railing, frameless glass railing, and framed glass railing for contractors and DIYers.

Why choose us?

We are a passionate, family-owned business with a proven track record, that is proud to offer our customers in Washington and Northern Idaho an elevated decking experience. This includes expert craftsmanship, friendly customer service, and quality building materials.

Our experienced team has all of the knowledge and skills needed to ensure your satisfaction in every project we do. With us, you don't have to worry about a thing - from the very beginning of the project planning process all the way through to its completion and beyond.

Our Services:

Deck construction & installation

Our team of decking specialists, ranked among the best in Washington state, have planned and constructed hundreds of customized decks to meet the specific needs and desires of our clients. We use only the highest-quality materials and construction techniques, ensuring our decks are durable and add value to your home.

Deck railing systems

Transform your deck into a stylish and secure outdoor oasis with the perfect railing system. At 3 Brothers Decking, we provide a wide range of tailor-made railing choices for decks, all designed to complement the aesthetic of your home and deck. We install many types of railing styles including: cable railing, framed or frameless glass railing, aluminum railing, and natural wood railing.

Deck cover installation

Extending your roof or constructing an awning over your deck provides a sheltered space that is usable in all seasons, particularly the PNW's rainy season.

We build deck coverspergolasgazebos, and more ensuring your deck remains protected from both rain and intense sunlight.

Deck lighting installation

Lighting can help bring your deck to life and enhance the mood of your outdoor space. With the right deck lighting, you'll have an impressive space in which to enjoy and entertain day and night.

Whether you want subtle illumination or a bold effect, our deck lighting experts will work with you to create a stunning outdoor ambiance.

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