The correct slope for a deck, and why

deckframing

I am building a deck (12' wide) and see that deck boards (at least when perpendicular to the house) should be sloped away from the house so water will run away from the house. Seeing numbers for the slope from 1/8" to 1/4":

  • per foot
  • per three feet
  • per twelve feet
  • per (unspecified)

Is there a 'correct' value or range of values as such? What makes it correct?

Does it vary based on (what) conditions?

Perhaps a higher slope for composite decking that tends to sag?

Note: a one degree slope would be 0.209" per foot.

Best Answer

I’d use 1/8” per foot slope because 1) it’s enough to actually allow water to run off, and 2) the deck will “appear” flat

  1. You don’t want standing water on your deck. It can cause rot, etc. I live where we get a ton of rain. It’s important to get rid of water on wood, etc. on the exterior of a home.

  2. When you look at the deck, it will appear flat AND your soup bowl will not spill when you place it on a table.