When building a deck/porch...

[crossgirl]

Quote:
Boy do I wish I'd know this when I put my deck in!!!!

 

[sunny & the 5 egg layers]

Thank you guys! I actually got the new wood off of a lady on craigslist. The wood was all free. It all came off of a pool deck. I will take your advice and use the deck screws (I may have some in my garage, I will have to look).
Thanks again!

 

[Bear Foot Farm]

You'll save yourself a lot of headaches if you will drill pilot holes for those screws, at least through the top board

It takes a lot of power and torque to drive a 3" screw, and the last thing you want is for one to break off before it goes all the way in, or to lift the board when it tries to penetrate the joist

 

[Avalon1984]

Quote:
X2. Almost forgot to mention that! Always pre-drill, makes it so much neater and easier!

 

[IRChicken]

How about using Ballistic Nail-Screws?
Best of both worlds.

If you use screws, pre-drilling does 2 things.
allows everything to mate well, no gaps.
Prevents cracking, especially on board ends.

 

[Royd]

Quote:
The only problem there is if you need to replace or even adjust a board when you are installing. Getting a screw nail out, is almost an impossiblity.