How to Build a Stylish Deck with Durable Hog Panel Railings

Welcome back to Base Camp WNC!

It’s been a bit since our last update, as life’s responsibilities often grow with age. Today, we're revisiting a project from last summer when I tackled building a deck on this cabin. Despite the current chilly 19° weather, memories of that sweltering build still linger. It’s been a few months—two or three since my last post—but let’s dive back into the details of that project.

For this build, we opted for hog panel railings to ensure an unobstructed view while seated. We're even considering adding Mountain Laurel accents to the steps for a natural touch. Today’s focus, however, is on replacing the homemade double barn doors with a standard 36-inch house entrance door to expand the kitchen area slightly and improve insulation against pests.

I’ve already removed the barn doors and started framing the opening for the new door, which will feature glass panels and better align with the existing siding for a seamless appearance. Installation of the new door required precise cutting and fitting, especially to accommodate the siding and trim.

Though I didn’t film every step of the process, I managed to secure the header and set the foundation for the door installation. The construction started with a header mounted on the wall, secured with lag bolts, providing a stable base to support the structure. We ensured everything was perfectly square using the 3-4-5 triangle method, essential for the layout of the deck.

Next, we installed the floor joists, maintaining a straight alignment without the need to measure each one individually. I used pre-cut space blocks to ensure consistent spacing of 16 inches on center, simplifying the process. The joists were attached using ceramic-coated screws suitable for treated lumber, guaranteeing durability and ease of installation.

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Join us as we continue this detailed guide to building a deck with practical and stylish hog panel railings. Remember to like, share, and subscribe for more updates from Base Camp WNC. Thanks for watching, and I’ll see you in the next one!