Thread: Timber Deck attached to house

Hi Pete,

I built a similar-sized (and height) deck a few years back, and mainly through-bolted it to the brick foundations. I was advised that through-bolts were better as I had older bricks and the dynabolts could just (potentially) crack them and so not provide a solid hold. So I only dyna-bolted in one section where I couldn't access the back of the wall.

I guess it also prevents the deck working loose through movemebnt or cracking in the bricks over time. I went back in after a couple of months and re-tightened the bolts but they seemed fine.

Between the bolts and the posts concreted in every 1.8 or less metres it's rock solid.

You can get a book on building decks and pergolas at Bunnings (some libraries have it too) which is Australian and has lots of useful info if you haven't built a deck before...it answered all my questions.

Regards,
Darren

Hi Darren!

Super quick reply!

I gather that you're talking about the Allan Staines Deck and Pergola book from bunnings? Ive got that and its fantastic!

Its good to hear from someone that has done exactly the same as me!

Im starting to like the idea of through bolts. They are some pretty solid reasons you gave then. I read all of the threads discouraging people from attaching their decks to their house, but from what I can gather, that is mainly to do with brick veneer.

Appreciate the help!

Pete

That's the book. Glad I could help. It was my first 'big' project in the house and included a few learning steps (and new tools ).

Spend time on the structure, get it all straight and rock-solid and the top should be a breeze. I used merbau and just pre-drilled and nailed it down, but should have gone for screws as some have raised up a little as the wood shrinks, but not enough to worry about.

The lnly hint is to plan railings so that the posts can be incorporated into the support structure, much easier than attaching them later (as I did in one section).

Good luck, and enjoy the project (and the finished deck!).

Regards,
Darren

Dont you love getting new tools!

This is my first 'big' project too, and I was planning on taking my time and getting everything right. Im doing merbau aswell, with a pine frame. I have already incorporated the handrail posts into the frame, so should be all good there.

Thanks again,
Pete