When you’re figuring out how to build a deck—or how to build a deck better—quick tips can be just as useful as big picture how-to, so here’s a MyFixitUpLife ‘I got this’ on straightening warped deck boards.
Dig in. Pull hard. Nail off.
-Leverage Locate where the board is at its maximum warp. Use your hammer to drive the chisel into the joist. The bevel should be jammed against the deck board. Get the iron into the wood at least 1/4-inch.
-Pull Crank the chisel toward you. As you do so, the deck board should move.
-Fasten If you’re hand nailing the deck, start a few nails and have your hammer ready. Ditto with screws and a driver. Or if you’re gun-nailing, have the nailer within reach. Once the board is where you want it, fasten fast. Two people doing this works even better.
When it comes to how to build a deck, little things can make a big difference.
*For woodworkers having a nervous breakdown at the thought of using a chisel this way, please be advised, I do not mean a woodworking chisel.