My max allowable height of my deck is 14" as I have some basement windows that I only want to cover halfway.

That suggests that with using 2x6s and the height of the piers that most should fit snuggly into the deck piers.

However, I have about and 8" slope over the length of the deck in my backyard.

Should I shim under each joist? Only issue I see is there might be a 2" gap on some and 8" on others? I can use cedar shingles for the small spaces, but what would I use for a 4" gap - a 4x4 cut to 4"?

Should I cut 4x4 posts 6-18" in length and bolt the joists to the side of the 4x4s versus resting on top?

Should I raise each deck block to allow for cedar shims only?

Oh yeah...one more...traditional beam/joist plans call for joist hangers to attach rim joists to floor joists...the principles seem the same here but do you need joist hangers?

Almost ready to build but would appreciate answers to these 2

Decking in Toronto

Paul

Since your in Toronto it is difficult to give accurate advice. I am not sure about the building codes in Canada. Although they are very similar to the codes of the U.S. I am sure there are some subtle differences. Since you are in Canada you will need to print out the plans and and get them approved by you local building department. If you were in the the U.S. Here is what I would tell you. Cut all the 4x4 lumber to length for the posts. Don't bolt the Posts to the side of the deck frame. Rest the deck on top of the posts as shown in the plans. You can use hangers if you would like but they really are not necessary. They can make the support boards easier to put on closest to the house.

Deckman

Not sure I am understanding...my issue is that there may only be 1-2" between the beam and the concrete piers.

Are you suggesting I still use a 4x4 post but just cut it to these small gaps? Do I use cedar shake shims when it is say less than 1"? How do you connect the beams to these small shims or 4x4 posts?

In Canada, I don't need permits for decks not attached, less than 24" or less than 600 sqft. so I think I am ok.

Thanks for your help.


Paul

Hi Paul,

I'm in Calgary. Yep, just cut the 4x4 posts to be the size you need (1"-2"). A sliding mitre (chop) saw will really help here. I'm not sure what the minimum size a 4x4 post can be cut to before it falls apart, probably 1/2"?

Use 4x4 blocks - Even when they are thin. If you are around 1/2 - 3/4" you don't need to attach the blocks to the frame. You should use all the same material to hold the deck up. So everything should be 4x4 treated lumber.

Deckman

Thanks both...that helps.

I think I have also figured out that I can probably make a joist around the windows to allow light to come in but surround the "hole" with a planter so people don't fall in...that way I can make all the posts 6-8" if needed.

One last question...I will be placing the bloks on an existing patio made with 2' x 3' patio stones sitting on limestone screening. It has been there for over 6 years and is fairly packed and sturdy.

There are a few stones, however, that I would suggest are not flat and would need re-levelling. I also want to expand my deck 4 feet past this patio on length and width onto the grass.

So...

1. Should I lay the bloks on the patio stones directly?
2. For the patio stones that are not flat, any suggestions? Remove them and lay the bloks on the screening or try to level the patio stone and place the blok on the patio stone?
3. For the areas past the patio stones, is it ok to place the bloks on the grass or do I need to lay limestone and patio stones to make the base all the same? Any issues with uneven heaving by doing this - some deks on grass and some on patio stones?

Thanks again.

Paul