Deck Building Tools

The right tools are a must-have for any do-it-yourselfer building a deck. Tools are required for all the different deck building tasks including installing the deck flooring, laying the foundation, and constructing the stairs. This is one area where it usually doesn't pay to cut corners - a premium hammer will definitely be your best friend on this project!

Here's a rundown of what you'll need:

Hammers and screwdrivers are essential for any project and deck building is no exception.

Spiral-groove or ring-shank nails and long screws will be the most effective but must be the proper length to ensure they are fastening.

Framing squares are an L-shaped ruler that is used to mark and cut a piece or to line up components to be perfectly square.

Levels are used to ensure something is perfectly flat or even. Tape measures are long portable rulers that will enable you to measure long items. Pencils are used to allow you to mark off all measurements before cutting.

Circular saws are used to cut most pieces of wood. Reciprocating saws can make the cutting job go faster for thick posts. Hand-saws can also be used but as they are manual, they can be straining as they require lots of physical effort. Jigsaws are used to cut any complicated or awkward shapes and angles that the circular saw can't.

Drills and bits are used to drive screws into boards or wood and also used to fit fasteners on the concrete landing. Adjustable wrenches are used to fasten bolts and nuts. Regular wrenches or vice grips will also do the trick.

Power augers or posthole diggers are used to dig the holes for the concrete foundation (footings) which will ensure you mount your posts properly. Shovels are used for manual digging small holes and can also be used to mix concrete. Mortar tubs or wheelbarrows are often used to mix the concrete and wheelbarrows can also be used to transport items such as dirt.