Getting Ready for a Fab Fall BBQ with a DIY Platform Deck

As summer gradually fades away, the cozy charm of fall draws us in to enjoy cooler temps in our outdoor spaces again. And what better way to do that than by having a BBQ in our very own backyard? Preparing an outdoor space for a memorable gathering with family and friends becomes even more inviting when you have a great foundation, like a DIY platform deck. Today I’m sharing the steps I took to get our backyard ready for the perfect fall BBQ.

We used our Ryobi cordless battery leaf blower and our Ryobi edger to clear the area of dirt, yard debris and weeds. We removed any rocks, roots or plants that needed to be transplanted and leveled the ground as much as possible. This helped to provide a stable foundation for our deck to ensure it lasts for years to come.

We followed our design and began building the deck frame. We created a sturdy substructure using pressure-treated two-by-four's as sleepers to rest on the concrete slab, to ensure that the height of the deck works well with the height of the step from the house.

We used galvanized corner braces to join the two-by-four's at the corners for even more support. Then we measured corner to corner to ensure that the frame was square. We then raised it up on concrete deck blocks to lift the frame off of the ground.

We then joined the 2x4x10 (sleepers) with galvanized tie plates and screws to make up for the length of the deck.

We placed the sleepers on “spacers” which were actually pieces of PVC 1-by-2's cut into blocks. These are used to help avoid rot, by keeping the sleepers off of the concrete and it also helps to facilitate better drainage.

After completing the frame, we securely attached the sleepers to the rim joists using galvanized fence rail brackets, spacing them 12 inches on center. While Trex recommended a 16 inch spacing for the sleepers, we took into consideration various sources that suggested a 12 inch spacing for added stability when using composite decking, so we opted for this cautious approach.

To ensure even more support, we also incorporated blocking between the joists. This additional step further enhances the deck's structural integrity.

Lastly, it was time to install the Trex. For a more polished appearance, I decided to create a picture frame trim by mitering the corners. To do this, I cut the ends of the picture frame boards at a 45-degree angle, ensuring they fit together seamlessly at the corners. I placed the first mitered board down on the edge of the deck and the other along the house and then started placing the inner deck boards up against the first frame board on one corner of the deck. Using Trex hideaway fasteners, we secured them to each sleeper, ensuring a seamless and hidden installation.

Trex hideaway fasteners are designed to create a clean and smooth surface without visible screws or nails, giving the deck a polished look. These fasteners also provide the proper spacing between the deck boards, ensuring consistent gaps for expansion and drainage. We continued laying the Trex boards down until we got to the opposite end.

For the last border board, we cut the end at a 45 degree angle and then snapped a chalk line to mark where to cut the edges off of the inner boards.

We used an extra Trex board as a guard for the circular saw and then using a circular saw, we cut the excess off of the inner boards leaving space for the final mitered trim board.

With the deck complete, it was time to set the stage for a fall BBQ. We arranged this Kendall patio set to create a cozy area where guests can relax and enjoy the ambiance. Fall, to me, always means texture, so I incorporated some textured pillows and a nubby plaid fall blanket to warm up with on cool nights.

Finally, we set up our new Weber Spirit grill to grill up some of our family favorites.

With the DIY platform deck ready and the backyard transformed into an inviting oasis, we’re able to enjoy the crisp air, the sound of laughter and the joy of making cherished memories together. Happy fall BBQ season!