Wednesday, 20 August 2008

Building garden decking

Preparing the site:
Mark out the area with pegs and string to ensure right angles. Remove any turf and some of the top soil before applying a proprietary weed killer. Lay a weed suppressant membrane to prevent any further weed growth. Cover with either gravel or weigh down with slabs.

Construction the Base Frame:
Construct the decking base framework positioning joists at 500mm (19”) centres. Use a spirit level and the slabs to ensure a level surface is achieved. Insert staggered noggins to strengthen the base. If a pergola is to be included, install the uprights at this stage or install Deck posts at this stage, which can be either 6’ deck posts or 54” pre notched deck posts. Deck posts should be positioned no more that 2.4m apart. Once posts are installed, lay the decking.

Laying the Decking:
Deck boards should be laid at right angles to the joists. For decks larger than 3m, the boards will need to be staggered. Your chosen layout design for the deck boards may effect the position and quantity of supporting joists.

Creating the Deck Surround:
Deck surrounds can be made using either pre-formed deck panels and handrails or baluster and handrails. Two handrails will be needed for every span – one top and bottom. Drill holes in the bottom rail to allow drainage. If using balusters position at intervals not exceeding 100mm (4”).


Three of the top online suppliers of decking within the UK include:

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