Your concrete patio had its time to shine, but now you want something different. A new deck is just what your backyard needs to breathe life into your backyard. But how can you install a new deck without destroying your old concrete patio? Here’s how:
Gather the Appropriate Tools
Those who want to install a deck over their patio on their own, they’ll need the appropriate tools to get the job done right. For this project, you will need:
- Level
- Miter/Circular Saw
- Hammer Drill
- Cordless Drill
- Straight Edge
- Chalk Line Reel (Optional)
Choose the Right Material
You have a variety of decking material options, but the most common ones are wood and composite decking. Both materials offer a warm and natural feel of a sophisticated deck. However, traditional wooden decks require more maintenance than composite decking. Wood decks are prone to fading, rotting, and drying over time, while composite decks can last for decades without damages.
Leveling and Layout
Once you’ve decided on a decking material, then it’s time to start building. You start by leveling your current patio. A weathered patio will need to be fixed before laying your sleepers. You can level your patio by pouring a thin coat of self-leveling compound on uneven surfaces. Afterward, start planning the layout of your deck based on the layout of your current patio.
Place and Install Sleepers
Once you’ve decided on a layout, it’s time to install sleepers directly onto your concrete patio. Sleepers can be leveled or sloped, as long as their surface forms a single flat plane. Starting from the highest point of your patio, place your first sleeper in position. Use plastic shims to raise low spots if necessary. Secure them with concrete screws and continue placing sleepers in the same manner.
Install Decking Material
Next, put your decking material boards onto the sleepers. It’s important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for installing the decking material. Generally, decking can be applied starting from the outside of the deck and moving inward. Screw accent boards into place first since they can help guide the addition of field boards.
Install Steps
The last step in installing a deck over your patio is installing steps. Start by installing a ledger board on both sides of the stoop. You are essentially box framing around your patio’s stoop by installing double joints on either side of the stoop and placing a header beam in front of the stoop in between the double joists. You will then fill the area above the stoop with ledger boards and joists running out to the header.
Have it Done by a Professional Deck Builder in Towson
DIY decking projects can be difficult and time-consuming. Let the professionals at North American Deck and Patio install a deck over your patio. We work quickly, efficiently, and meticulously to ensure that your new deck looks and feels the best it can be.
Contact us today to get started.
Thousands of Happy Customers
“ Jim at North American patio and deck's came up with the most ingenious way of utilizing our small very slanted very water drained environment and turned it into a virtual oasis. Making this deck the envy of all our ambitions and gem for the community.”
– C. Cross
30+ Years of Industry
Experience
