Building a deck and i want to be able to lift part of the deck up how do i do it?
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Let's assume the deck boards are 2x6 and the perpendicular supports underneath are on 2 ft centers. Lay out the deck as you normally would then cut out the size required as long as it is small enough to fit between 2 of the supports. Cut the boards such that the cut line is over the center of the support board on each end of the 2x6. Once the boards are cut, rearrange as they were before cutting, flip over, attach a 2x2 or 2x4 perpendicular to these boards about 4-6 inches from the ends. Flip back over and this should fit into the hole you cut out and the 2x6 ends should rest on the support boards. Normally there is a gap between deck boards. You can use a stiff piece of wire (or something similiar) with a 2" piece at the end bent at a right angle to lower into the gap then turn so that the 2" piece is now under the 2x6 and then lift up enough to grab with your hand. They also have recessed handles that you could install where desired but that would look obvious.
the question isn't clear, you want to pick part up like a moat? with a draw bridge or you want it to be different levels?
Don't run the support beams under the area that you want to lift up. Then put hinges on the piece you want to lift up while still making it blend in with the rest of the deck.
bolts and hinges
Not sure if you're trying to life up a corner of the entire deck, or if you're trying to lift a section of decking. For the entire deck, rent a house jack or guy a good hydraulic jack. Put the base on something sturdy (piece of 2 X 6 lumber works well) and if you need height you can use a length of 4 X4 between the jack and deck. Be very careful, if the 4X4 shoots out it can knock your brains out. If it's not a huge deck, then putting a 4X4 under a corner and simply levering it up will occasionally work as well. Remember to be safe, a deck falling on you can ruin your entire day.
How big and for what purpose would help to design it.What sizes of lumber are you using for the rest of the deck?Does the lift out have to support anything?
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