Building a modular deck

If you have always wanted a nice looking deck but don't have time or money to build as large a one as you would like? Well, here is an easy solution to your problem. The only tools you need are a hammer, a saw, and 2 1/2 to 2 3/4 inch nails.

You can choose pressure treated lumber, cedar, redwood, or whatever your lumber yard recommends that fits your wants and budget. You can let your deck age gracefully to a nice shade of grey, saterproof it, stain it, or paint it a rainbow of colors for a unique artistic look.

The modules are made one at a time in 3 ft to 6 1/2 ft lengths. For the 3 ft module you will need to cut six 2 x 6" boards into 3 ft (36")lenghts and two 2 x 6" boards into 38" lengths. Lay out your cut 2 x 6's evenly leaving 1/2' between the boards. Put the two 38" boards in the opposite direction, 4 to 5 inches in from the edges, make sure these are straight on both ends and meet the ends of the opposing 6 boards and nail 2 nails into each junction. I nailed the first junction and then the last one to prevent slippage and then nailed the other 38" board the same way after checking to be sure they were straight. Then making sure the other 4 boards are still evenly spaced, nail these at their junctions. I prefer nailing them in the reverse position with the top of the deck against the ground to prevent scarring the wood with hammer marks. All my mistakes and misstrikes will be hidden once the module is in its correct position.

Congratulations! You have just completed your first module. Did I mention these are also stackable and will fit into storerooms and garages if you like? Easy? You bet!

If you want variation you can make a longer version. You will need six 2 x 6's cut 6' 5" long (77") and two cut 6 ft 2 1/2" (74 1/2"). The reason we cut 6'5" is to allow two of your 3' x 38" modules to butt against them at right angles and come out even. If your are a perfectionist, lay out your boards and match up to your 3 ft modules before you nail them together. For myself, I just leave a larger or smaller gap when I set them out.

Any variation to size can be adjusted mathmatically with a simple calculator. 4 ft modules would take six 4 ft boards and 2 4 ft x 2 1/2" boards. If you don't want the 1/2" gaps between slats, deduct the 2 2/1" from the support boards. I prefer the gaps for water runoff and easy cleaning.

You can do neat things like allowing a 3 x 3 square around your favorite tree, incorporating it into your scene, or use the space for potted plants, statues or wherever your imagination leads.

For apartment dwellers, hey, you can take these with you when you move! Great, huh?