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Considering Size
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The following is a summary of factors to consider when selecting the size of your deck. The circle represents a 4 ft. table on the rectangular deck. Here you can get an idea about how much space you want. Sizes are offered in 2-ft increments since the lumber is sold that way. |
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| Don't worry, your deck will not look like a black rectangle. This is simplified to arrive at a rough concept and a price. Introducing angles* and combining basic shapes makes your deck unique. | |||
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*Decks with cut-off corners are priced as rectangles for square footage purposes to cover the added labor that accompanies this feature.
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| 10 ft decks |
Notes
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10 x 10
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Depth x Length
In Minnesota, your footings to support the deck are critical. And because of the expense, its a good idea to get the most square feet that you can for each footing and post you install. Of course, you need at least two posts. It is rarely worth it to build anything smaller than 10 feet by 10 feet unless its for a catwalk. Limiting the length to under 16 feet allows for the unseamed straight installation of the decking. But diagonal decking is stronger, and there is no added waste when you plan it correctly. |
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10 x 12 | ||
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10 x 14 | ||
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10 x16 | ||
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10 x 18 |
If your deck exceeds 15.5 feet, you will have seams in the decking unless you go diagonal with it, and remain with in 10 feet for depth. I do not recommend diamond or other intricate patterns. Still, if you stay 10 or less from the house, you can get diagonal decking in, seamlessly, at no extra cost. Longer decks can be split into two levels for a very small cost. |
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10 x 20 | ||
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10 x22 | ||
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10 x 24 | ||
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10 x 26 | ||
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10 x 28 | ||
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10 x 30 | ||
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| 12 foot decks |
Notes
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12 x 12
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Depth x Length
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12 x14 | ||
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12 x 16 | ||
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12 x 18 |
Since the decking must be seamed once you go longer than 16 feet, if you are going to go 18 feet, you might as well go 20. This puts the lower posts 10 feet apart and maximizing their support potential.
Longer decks can easily be split into two levels at a very small cost. |
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12 x 20 | ||
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12 x 22 | ||
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12 x 24 | ||
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12 x 26 | ||
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12 x 28 | ||
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12
x 30
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| 14 foot decks |
Notes
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14 x 14
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Depth x Length
14 foot decks use the total length of the joist available for 16 inch spacing, and give you the most square feet for your dollar. If you go farther than 14 feet, you must add another row of posts or move the joists closer together. The most efficient size is the 14 x16, which uses the full length of the available lumber and can be built on one row of footings/posts. However, to go 14 feet out, the joists must be cantilevered over the top of a beam. This puts the posts back about 2 feet from the far edge of the deck and complicates any future 3- or 4-season porch plans* you may have for this deck down the line. Longer Decks can be split into two levels at a very small cost.
*as always, porches require larger footings than the deck, so be sure to consider this before footings are poured.
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14 x16 | ||
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14 x 18 | ||
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14 x 20 | ||
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14 x 22 | ||
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14 x 24 | ||
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14 x 26 | ||
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14 x 28 | ||
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14 x 30 | ||
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Notes
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| Since
most cities restrict the maximum span of a 2x10 joist to 14 ft, most
often have another row of footings is required midway between the house
and the end of the deck. Many times at this size the deck is more logically evaluated in sections for price, and offers the option of creating another level as well. |
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