This is the best diagram illustrating the different parts of a deck. Actually it's a series of illustrations including the deck, railing, stairs and deck foundation. Fully illustrated from multiple angles. Ultimate deck blueprint.
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I love decks. I used to love watching Paul Lafrance’s Decked Out TV show. That guy is a deck master.
Because I’m so passionate about decks, I asked our graphics team to go all out on creating the ultimate “parts of a deck” anatomy diagram.
They delivered big time.
In fact, as you’ll see below, our graphic sets out the different parts for each aspect of building a deck. This is a super helpful diagram if you’re planning on building a deck or designing a deck.
Parts of a deck diagram
List of the various parts
Deck Foundation
- Deck posts: Main posts to which the deck attaches.
- Intermediate joists: supporting joists in the middle of the deck.
- Noggins: Spacers for intermediate joists (keeps them straight and true).
- Support beams: beams under joists for additional support.
- Deck board: The deck surface.
The deck
- Clips: Secures and steadies the joists.
See 17 different types of decking materials and styles here.
Deck stairs
- Riser: The height of each step (part of the riser). See our parts of a staircase diagram here for more staircase information.
- Tread run: Where the steps sit (part of the riser).
- Concrete foundation: Slab on which the risers sit for solid foundation.
Deck railing
- Top / cap rail: The top railing beam (handrail).
- Balustrade: Vertical boards that make up the railing. Can be spaced or have gaps. Most decks have gaps.
- Bottom rail: The bottom horizontal support beam of the railing.
- Newel: Railing support posts.
Click here for 16 different types of deck railings.