Latest Discussions : Tools & Workshop

02:45PM | 06/03/02

Member Since: 10/07/01
51 lifetime posts

Proper Deck Slope

I am planning on building a deck (10' X 14') this summer and I want to slope it away from the house so that the water runs off away from the house and so that the water doesn't puddle on the deck boards.

I was thinking of using 1/8" slope per foot of run. Would this be enough or should I increase it?

Mark Hammond

05:50PM | 06/03/02

Member Since: 05/09/01
246 lifetime posts

Hi Paul,
I have had good luck using 1/4"/foot. This would drop the deck 2 1/2" over 10 feet. Not too much I think, but enough to get rid of all the water......Mark Hammond

rpxlpx

05:36AM | 06/04/02

Member Since: 03/13/00
1674 lifetime posts

I read in a deck-building book that 1/8" per foot is the correct slope.

Don't forget to place the boards so they "cup" upward in the center rather than downward. Sometimes this means putting the ugly side of the board up. If you haven't bought the lumber yet, select pieces with this in mind.

Another suggestion: use either screws or spiral nails - not smooth nails. And if you use galvanized, make sure they are "hot dipped" or they'll eventually rust.

[This message has been edited by rpxlpx (edited June 06, 2002).]

Mustang

10:49AM | 06/05/02

Member Since: 01/22/02
101 lifetime posts

I'm assuming your deck will be some kind of planking be it 5/4, 2x4 or 6, if it is you don't really need to slope it at all.

BV015860

11:29AM | 03/06/18

my brother has a big deck on his roof that wasn't sloped properly and water is staying in the middle and not going off the roof. how do i fix the problem to make the water run off the deck.

BV016331

06:57PM | 05/10/18

What would be a proper slope for an 8' deck, with a vinyl flooring product (Weatherdeck).