Expert: Bruce E. Johnson - 4/22/2009

Question
I need to cut an angle on an existing deck joist so that I can expand the area. It will be similar to a bay window area, just not enclosed. How do I get the angle I need so that the board being inserted will lay flat against the existing vertical board and be level with the existing joists. Its not a 45 cut its closer to a 90 but I don't know the exact angle. What do you suggest as the best method to cut this?

Answer
Hi Steve, the easiest way and the quickest is to just take a sample piece of wood and start making cuts in 5 degree increments until the right one fits.  A speed square is good for this also.. from your base wall line, put a speed square up against the wall line and use a straight edge to mark your angled wall across the speed square.  The speed square will tell you your angle..I hope this information helps feel free to write again regarding this or other matters, sincerely bruce e johnson..bejohnsonconsulting.com