Deck Drafting Design Checklist 

Understanding Client preferences 

  • Discuss desired deck style (Picture frame, diagonal, pairing)

    • Clarify the purpose of the deck 

    • Entertainment, dining, relaxation 

    • special features ( Built in sitting, lighting, planters)

  • Material Preferences 

    • Confirmed the type deck material (wood, metal)

    • Discuss texture, and color option

    • Consider maintenance requirement and long term durability 

Site analysis 

  • Measurement 

    • Verify all size dimensions (width, height, dimensions)

    • Measure exisiting that the deck will connect to ( House,railingsand etcs) 

    • document slope and grade of the land 


  • Site Conditions

    • Soil conditions, details for new footings 

    • check for drainage issues 

    • Identify obstacles that could effect the design ( Such as connections) 

Design Layout 

  • Deck shape & Size

    • Outline the overall size of the deck 

    • Confirm dimensions of the deck 

    • Identify mark and multilevel section

  • Layout Style

    • Specify decking layout style

    • picture frame diagonal or straight 

    • include the detailed showing drawing the orientation board 

      Note:

      Standard decking 3/4 inches x 5.5 inches

      Common decking size board  6  8 12 18 footers

  • Structural Design 

    • Details size of beam, post and etc

    • Confirm spacing of joist 12 inch 16 inch or 24 inch center 

    •  Include design for railing type , post, guard ,  top guard rail, will electrical guard have lights on it 

Code compliance

  •  Buiding codes 

    • Verify all designs meet all meetings codes 

    • insure proper spacing and height requirement are met

  • Load Requirements 

    • Ensure the design accounts for local bearing requirements (e.g., furniture, heavy loads, people).

    • Calculate the live load if applicable.

Aesthetics detail

  • Finishing detail 

    • Confirm edge treatment: picture frame border or edge.

    • Plan for skirting or fascia boards.

    • Specify the location and style of any decorative items.

  • Color and Stain Options:

    • Confirm color and stain choice with the client.

    • Provide samples and mock-ups if possible.

Additional features 

  • ligthning

    • Deck lighting

    • Stair lights

    • Post lights.

    • Confirm electrical requirements and placement.

  • Built-In Features:

    • Detail any built-in seating or storage, including measurements.

  • Utilities:

    • Plan for any required plumbing or electrical work (e.g., outdoor kitchen, hot tub, fireplace).

Review and Approval

  • Client Review

    • Present final design for approval.

    • Confirm layout, style, and features as agreed upon

  • Final Adjustments:

    • Make final adjustments based on client feedback.

    • Update drawings to meet specification changes.

  • Obtain Signed Approval

    • Client approval sign-off form.