Plans for the Multi-Level Backyard Deck
The extensive new deck will have multiple levels and various sections. General contractor Tim Berky digs holes for the footings before setting them in concrete.
The extensive new deck will have multiple levels and various sections. General contractor Tim Berky digs holes for the footings before setting them in concrete.
General contractor Tim Berky installs the white oak, tongue-and-groove floor. Since the flooring will be nailed over the hyrdronic heat system, it is critical to avoid puncturing any tubes. Berky installs the flooring perpendicular to the tubing, so he can always see the tubes and avoid nailing into them.
John Martin (from WarmZone) is on-hand to show Bob how the medium density fiberboard (MDF) faced with reflective aluminum shielding, and precut channels for the hot-water tubing, comes together to create a layout for the in-floor radiant heat system.
Steve Powers (from Trikeenan Tileworks) explains the manufacture of their unique artisanal tiles, and the homeowner lays out her design vision. David Cloutman (from DC Tile) performs the installation.
General contractor Tim Berky and his crew remove existing cladding in order to fit the ledger board for the deck tight against the house, with an ice and water barrier to protect against water penetration.
Rick Kleiner (from the Southern Forest Products Association) joins Bob to talk about using pressure-treated deck members. Such lumber resists fungal growth, termites, and decay, and is capable of supporting a strong and stable deck for decades.
General contractor Tim Berky is completing trim on the oriel window that faces onto the deck. He begins by covering the underboard with MDO (medium density overlay). Then, he adds an ice and water barrier, and copper flashing, before finishing.
Ryan Pirro (from RestorationWindows.com) discusses refurbishing old windows with solid-bronze sash chains, new parting beads, and spring-bronze weather stripping for energy-efficient, easy-operation windows at one-fourth the cost of replacements.
Rich Melo of Newton Roofing Company joins Bob for the installation of the copper roof on the Rowley addition. The Dutch cleat system has a crimped edge and a receiver on each panel for an interlocking design.
Bob reviews the structure for the new deck. Paul Mackie (of the Western Red Cedar Lumber Association) joins to discuss the benefits of building with western red cedar, a sustainable product. The wood is naturally stable– it will not warp, crack, check, or chip– and it’s insect-resistant. General contractor Tim Berky is busy nailing down the decking planks.