Here are some basic things to remember when building your own deck. Attach the joist hangers 16 inches apart on center to the side rails. Assemble all floor joists and side rails before nailing. Then, nail all at once, using galvanizd nails. Overhang the first floor board by half an inch using galvanized finish nails. If you have an enclosed deck or a screened porch you can use tongue and groove flooring.