How to Build an Octagonal Deck

Step 3: Level the support board.

Locate the highest corner Dek-Block® pier. Position a 2"x6" support board in or above this first block to your desired height. If the entire deck will be elevated, you will need to have a 4"x4" post in the first block.

If the entire deck is elevated you will need to find the height of the first 4"x4" post to determine your starting point. First determine your reference point for the top of the deck surface. This may be the threshold of a door or a point on the siding. Mark a line level with this point that will extend near the first block. From this line, hold a level out over the block and measure from the bottom of the level to the pocket of the block. From this measurement, subtract the thickness of the surface board and the thickness of the support board (1 1/2" + 5 1/2" = 7"). Cut the first 4"x4" post at this measurement and continue with the directions.

Next, place a 2"x6" support board in the slot of the Dek-Block® pier or on the 4"x4" post, and extend over the second corner Dek-Block® pier. Using a level on top of the 2"x6" support board, measure the distance from the bottom of the 2"x6" support board to the bottom of the pocket in the Dek-Block® pier. Cut a 4"x4" post to length and position the 2"x6" support board on top. Verify that the 2"x6" support board is level, don't attach the 2"x6" support board to the 4"x4" post yet.

Deckman's Tip

If the deck is placed next to a door, the deck should be between 1/2" and 1" below the door's threshold. Or if you want a step up to the door, the deck should be between 6-7 inches below the door. You don't want anything between 1-6 inches; this will create a trip hazard.

Printable Step by Step Instructions

The printable version of our instructions are in Adobe PDF format.

You must have Adobe Acrobat to be able to view and print the plans. The Acrobat Reader is free from Adobe.

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