Home How to lay patio decking

Installing a decking area will improve the aesthetics of your garden, creating a smart and easy to care for area ideal for use in the summer months; such as for dining, parties, lounging and even a children’s play area. With this condensed DIY guide, laying a patio deck can be a realistic achievement for any home.

Step 1

Mark out the position of the deck with pegs and string, remembering to take into consideration sun position. This will help you gain an important visual impression of the size and is a great base point for starting your work. Clear the site of any grass or weeds and ensure the area is level by using a spade. Before covering the area with gravel, it is a good idea to lay weed-proof membrane to prevent any unwanted vegetation growing.

Step 2

Create a frame by cutting the joists to the required size. Then, cut the joists you want to form the sides to the right size. Then cut the deck floor joists to the required lengths and treat the cut ends with a sealant. Follow this by placing the side and floor joists in the proposed decking position. Next, put the framework together by using 75mm screws in pre-drilled holes.

Step 3

Consider the way you wish to lay the deck boards (any particular pattern for example). Then cut the deck boards to the required length and use a belt sander to smooth off any rough areas the timber may have. Place the first board at the front of the deck flat with the outer edge of the frame. Ensure it is fixed in place by using two 50mm screws in pre-drilled holes on each deck, securing it to the deck bearer at each joist. Lay the remaining boards similarly, leaving between 3-5 mm between boards.

Step 4

Use additional deck boards to conceal the rough edges of the main deck boards. To avoid wood rot, seal any cut ends of joists with wood preservatives.

Step 5

Lastly, apply a finish to the wood to protect your decking from precipitation and humidity. Choose a dry day and avoid direct vision of the sun. Clean the surface of any dirt or wood chippings you may of encountered using a broom and power washer. Choose from either a sealer (non-pigmented) or a stains (pigmented) finish. Now choose from either a water oil based product. Water finishes offer less mess and are more forgiving in damper conditions, whilst oil products penetrate deeper into the wood and thus protection lasts longer. Following these easy steps will ensure you have quality decking, which if maintained and cared for, will last for years to come. Don’t forget to give the wood a simple revarnish periodically to protect it from the elements.

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