If you read a lot of DIY blogs, you probably have wondered at some time…
How Not to Build a Deck
Happy almost the weekend. It’s been a long few weeks for me, work is kind of crazy and with classes on top, I’m definitely looking forward to relaxing these next few days and putting together my Halloween mantle.
the backyard makeover we have planned. And I subjected you to terrible photos of our backyard before the redo started.
Thank you for still being my friend after that 🙂
I mentioned how we have, correction, had, this deck off the back door. It was a terribly ugly thing. So in preparation for the new hardscape plan, the deck had to go. Yes!
Real life straight ahead.
Yes that is our for sale sign from 3 years ago and the grill cover and a bunch of other junk that we need to take care of.
This deck was built over existing concrete steps off the back door and thus did not line up with the cement walkway that went to the garage.
So basically when you walked off the steps you were stepping onto grass. And in the winter that was super fun because we were shoveling snow off of grass.
The deck was pretty much ugliness all around. And to top it off, it was not built correctly.
Take the steps for example.
The risers and treads were just nailed together, which is why they started falling apart this summer and we had to brace them with 2x4s just to walk on them.
And all the paint started coming off too. Pretty.
And then there was the 2x4s that made up the railing parts.
I’m no construction manager but I can tell you that is not how you build a deck. Entire pieces were bowed out.
I was never happier to see Mr. Decor Adventures take a hammer and crowbar to anything.
And I dig the bandana look too 🙂
I’m not joking when I say it was about 5 minutes of smacking away and all of the railings were gone.
Talk about it not being secure.
Mr. DA was happy to demonstrate how this was not pressure treated wood. See?
These 4x4s came down with about 3 strikes with the hammer. That is not how you are supposed to build a deck if it comes apart this easily.
Soon enough the deck was on its way out.
Mr. DA ripped up all the boards while I took pictures 🙂
And soon enough the deck was nothing more than a pile of junk on the ground.
We plan to have a bonfire soon 🙂
Next up, ripping out cement!
And if you are curious to know what I have in mind to replace the deck, take a look at my Outdoor Living board on Pinterest. Can you tell what style we’ll be going with?
i want o come to the bonfire and make smores! cheers to it being down before anyone got hurt!
i want o come to the bonfire and make smores! cheers to it being down before anyone got hurt!
I can’t wait to see your project once you are done! I know it will be amazing!
Have a blessed day!
karianne
See now this is why I hate decks! They’re like carpet, the only day they look perfect is the day you install it. Then it’s all down hill from there! Our deck, although larger, looks the same…ugh!! I’m much more of a patio fan. Thanks for stopping by Finding Fabulous the other day!
Jane
Finding Fabulous
Jessica I love your blog is my inspiration
saludos