ToolTechTipsForDecksEDIT.qxp_Layout 1 9/27/20 10:32 PM Page 16
TOOL TECH
TOOL TIPS FOR DECK WORK
s Resize the boards for disposal by cross-cutting them between two joists.
By Matt Weber
The HIR staff has worked on many decks over many years. We have a few favorite tools for a few different tasks and wanted to share our recommendations with you.
DECK DEMOLITION When tearing down an elevated deck, leave the guardrail intact as a safety precaution until most of the work is complete. For low-elevation
decks, however, it makes sense to begin by disassembling the rail first to gain easy access to the decking. A reciprocating saw can speed up the job by cutting through nail-embedded joints. To remove deck boards, begin from the rim or the center of the deck and work toward any surrounding walls. An ideal scenario is to have a crew of helpers pry up the boards fully intact and haul them to the curb for roadside pickup and disposal. When this is not an option, a good strategy for a lone DIY’er is to cut the boards just long enough to fit into a truck, trailer or
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Home Improvement and Repair | The Deck, Patio & Landscape Issue
