This home improvement project not only adds value to your property but also brings a sense of accomplishment and personal satisfaction. Imagine transforming a neglected, shady corner of your backyard into a charming, circular deck a sanctuary perfect for morning coffees or evening quiet time. This isn’t just any deck, though. It’s an eco-friendly masterpiece crafted from recycled lumber, making your project both stylish and sustainable.
DIY Freestanding Round Deck Project
Materials Required
- 3×3 hardwood timbers, 8 feet long
- 2×6 lumber, 8 feet long (including some treated ones for the base)
- 5/8″ irrigation tubing
- Cedar fence pickets (6′ and 10″ wide ones)
- Decking screws (1 5/8″ long)
- Behr transparent cedar tone waterproofing (or similar protective finish)
Tools Needed
- Power miter saw
- Saber saw
- Screwdriver
- Level
- Yardstick or a similar measuring tool
- Clamps
Step-by-Step Guide to Building Your Deck
Step 1: Erecting the Base
Construct two box frames from the treated 2x12s and 2x6s—one being the outer box, size 8 feet per side, and one inner box, positioned higher near the tree trunk. Level the boxes, secure them temporarily with clamps, and introduce four 2×6 “joists” at cardinal points on each box to divide your round deck platform into four quadrants.
Step 2: Crafting the Inner Circle Guide
Create a guide for your deck’s inner circle using the 5/8″ irrigation tubing, shaping it into a circle with an outside diameter of 42″. Fasten the ends with an irrigation plug, and secure this makeshift hula hoop using wood scraps screwed onto the four initial joists, marking your deck’s core.
Step 3: Joist Layout
Shape the structure by cutting the 2×6 lumber for joists to just below 48”. Starting with splitting the first quadrant into a half quadrant, continue halving until you achieve eight sections, making sure all joists are equally distanced and anchored against the irrigation tubed center circle.
Step 4: Decking Assembly
Begin with the outermost deck circle using 10″ wide cedar fence pickets, attaching them at an angle for a snug fit. Transition to the inner circles with 6″ wide pickets, maintaining an expansion gap of about 1/8″ between each board. Vary the gap to accommodate width differences among pickets, ensuring the deck feels solid and secure underfoot.
Step 5: Creating an Outer Circle Guide
To achieve a neatly trimmed deck edge, fashion another circle guide from the 5/8″ irrigation tubing, dictating the final deck diameter. Hold it in place temporarily with nails before the final cut.
Step 6: Trimming the Deck
Outline the deck’s perimeter by tracing along the outside of the tubing guide. Use a saber saw to meticulously cut along the marked line, ensuring the deck edge extends at least an inch beyond any joist tip for a clean finish.
Step 7: Step Construction
Tailor your steps using recycled 3×3 hardwood timbers to provide access to your deck. This step is customizable based on your specific deck height and design preferences.
Step 8: Staining
Protect and enhance your deck’s beauty with a coat of Behr transparent cedar tone waterproofing or a finish of your choosing. This not only adds to the longevity of the structure but also elevates its aesthetic appeal.
Step 9: Relaxation and Enjoyment
With the project complete, it’s time to bask in the glory of your handiwork. Arrange your favorite outdoor chairs, add some planters, and enjoy the unique ambiance of your round deck.
By following these steps, your backyard will boast a stunning round deck, marrying functionality with environmental consciousness. This project exemplifies how recycled materials can be given a second life, resulting in a beautiful, sustainable addition to your home.
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