Wooden decking is a popular modern alternative to patios, and the wood gives it a softer and warmer appearance. Constructing a deck isn’t something which should be tackled by a complete novice to DIY, but if you have undertaken DIY or basic construction in the past and are confident with measuring and cutting timber, then a basic deck shouldn’t be beyond you. Read on for our guide to what you’ll need, and how to go about the project.
Laying decking as a DIY project is becoming increasingly popular. However, if carried out incorrectly you can end up with bouncy decking boards and gaps where there shouldn't be gaps.
As a modern, multi-purpose alternative to a patio or lawn, decking is hard to beat for families, singles and couples alike. It is hard wearing and easy to maintain for homeowners. It is equally suited to a childs play area as it is as a space for you to entertain or just as somewhere to sit out and enjoy the sun
When investing in a new deck, your two options are to get a company in to do the job for you, or to take on the laying of the decking yourself. You may be daunted by the idea of what seems like major construction in the garden. In fact, laying decking is not as difficult as it might first appear to you.
Decking Preparation
Before heading off to the DIY store and buying tools and wood, take some time out to plan exactly what you want your finished deck to look like. Consider the size of the proposed decked area in comparison to the rest of your garden. Think about what you are going to use the space for. Consider the following factors:
- Is your garden flat?
- Are there large trees which you need to move or whose roots may affect your decking?
- Will your deck is to be located up against the house or positioned at the bottom of the garden?
- Will there need to be additional drainage for you to consider?
Make drawings and try to get a clear picture of what your finished deck will look like before committing any money to the project.
Planning
There’s no need to go into huge detail when planning your deck, but a rough sketch will help give you an idea of what you are trying to achieve. When planning, look at other factors which are going to affect the location and position of your deck such as doors, air bricks, manhole covers, trees etc. Remember that the deck has to be at least 150mm below the top of your damp course, and you might need to include an access hatch or cut out section depending on what your decking is covering up. Measure the area, write down the dimensions and peg out the proposed area of the deck with string to get a full idea of what it will look like.
Measuring Before Laying Decking
Once decisions have been made about where your decking will be and how large, prepare the ground by pegging out the exact dimensions of your deck. Take time to ensure your measurements are accurate. Then you should lay a membrane over the ground to stop weeds growing up through your decking once it has been assembled. You should calculate how big your finished deck will be in square metres or footage. Take these measurements to the shops with you when you shop for timber. This will help to make sure that the correct quantity you need is bought. You should buy a few planks extra to use in case of wrong cutting or breakage. You don't have to open these spare packs and can return them if you find you do not need them.
Prepare the Ground
Mark out the area of your deck with string and pegs, and remove all turf and vegetation from the area your deck will cover. Weed killer can be used once most of the vegetation has been removed, but take care using strong products around children or pets. Lay a deck fabric over the earth and this will stop any weeds growing up through your deck. Weigh the fabric down with something like slabs. Decking needs to be laid on a framework, and this needs to be secured onto a concrete base. You can dig holes and pour in concrete to secure the upright posts, but a far easier way is by using basic concrete paving slabs.
Building the Framework and Attaching the Boards
The next job is to build the framework which will support your deck. Start by laying joists around the perimeter, securing them with rustproof screws. Place joists at regular intervals along the frame, securing as you go. The aim is to create a grid pattern of battens under the deck which will support the boards. Once the framework is complete, start laying the boards to form the deck. Start from the wall nearest the house and work your way outwards. If your decking boards are shorter than the length of the deck, make sure that any join is over a joist so that you have something solid to screw the end of the plant into. Decking planks laid in straight lines is the simplest pattern, but if you are confident with carpentry and want to create something a little different, consider laying boards in a diagonal pattern or herringbone pattern for additional impact. There are lots of different patterns and ideas online to give inspiration, whatever the style of your home and garden.
Laying Decking Frames
The next step is to build the frame of your deck. You will have to lay joists around the perimeter of the deck. Lay the joists also across the width of your deck to enable boards to be screwed into place. You should time over this step and get all of the corners perfectly square to ensure that you get a professional finish. Very large decked areas may require some additional support in your framework to stop the structure sagging in the middle.
Laying Decking Boards
You have many different options for a deck. Your options include long planks and tiles. Your boards should be laid onto the joists and screwed into the frame beneath. It is easiest for you to do this with an electric screwdriver or drill. You should ensure that you overlap the joins of the boards to give a more professional finish. Make sure that you leave small gaps between the edges of the boards. This will allow any water to drain away more effectively from your decking. You should then treat the boards with wood preserver and then sit back and enjoy a barbecue on your lovely new deck.
How To Lay Decking - Video
Wickes have an excellent online tutorial for laying decking (see below).
Need A Contractor To Lay Decking?
If you don't want to DIY decking then Top Tradespeople can help.
We can find you up to 4 local gardeners to provide quotes for decking or other local gardeners and garden designers services.
We can also help you with carpenters and joiners if you'd prefer to use those to lay your decking.
Use our free quotes job post form above.
We will look through our UK wide network of gardeners and tradespeople to find you quotes for gardening and decking services.
