We’ve put together a guide on how to install a single-level deck with a timber frame and how to ensure your decking is safe for you and your loved ones. We’ll walk you step-by-step through planning and preparation, building and maintenance, and of course, safety.
When you decide on the location of your deck, there are a couple of things you should keep in mind.
Along with a carefully selected location, it is important to have a clear plan of the deck before getting started. This will limit cutting and wastage, as well as estimate the materials needed for the job.
When planning the deck, it is best to design it to fit only whole deck boards to avoid cutting them up lengthways to fill a gap.
Another important aspect to consider when designing the deck is to consider the 5-8mm gaps in between deck boards.
In order to ensure your decking is long-lasting, it is best advised to use structural treated timber and screws designed specifically for the job. Here are the materials you need to install a decking:
Besides these, you will also need the following tools to install a decking:
Now that you have decided on the location, made the plans, and prepared the tools, you can start installing your decking.
1. Compress any loose soil in the designated area with a thumper or a heavy roller.
2. Lay the weed control fabric over the area to stop any unwanted plants from poking through the deck boards.
3. Put the concrete slabs at the corner and centre points of the site to provide a solid foundation and keep the wood frame above the damp ground.
4. Build a simple box frame. The decking will be overhanging by the thickness of a board at each edge.
5. Lay the joist inside the frame with a distance of 400cm between them.
6. Nail the joist in place.
7. Make sure the main frame is leveled. Where necessary, insert sections of slates or floor tiles to bring it to level.
1. Make some 60cm pointed stakes from the 25mm x 50mm timber.
2. Treat the pointed stakes with a couple of coats and wood preserver and hammer them in at eight inside corners around the frame.
3. Screw through the stakes into the frame to strengthen the structure.
4. Provide extra strength by fitting noggins along the centre line of the frame.
5. Lay the decking planks and fix them at 5mm apart with two screws at each joist.
6. Plane and sand a rounder edge on the outer corners.
7. Fix a decking plank on each side of the frame.
8. Treat all cut surfaces and drill holes with two coats of preservative.
After you complete the decking, you can apply a decking stain to further protect the timber.
If your decking is placed in a shaded area, it is recommended to treat the wood every year to help preserve the timber.
Remove any dirt and leaves regularly to maintain in clean.
Smaller and often repairs are better in preventing deterioration rather than addressing them when they accumulated. Small fixes also require less effort and time.
Annual inspecting plan:
If you had your decking for a while you might want to check it yearly to make sure it’s still safe. Repeated use, temperature fluctuations, and prolonged exposure to humidity can damage wood, even though it is treated.
Here’s a quick list of things you should check to make sure decking is safe:
1. Look for loose decking boards – replace any missing or loose nails.
2. Inspect the wood – if the decking feels soft and spongy, chances are wood is decaying and needs replacing.
3. Check for rust – Rusty nails or screws can be dangerous, so make sure they are intact and keeping the decking fixed.
Every few years, it is advised to have a professional inspect the entire deck.
Check our full product range for decking and get the tools you need to install decking. If you are looking to complete a full landscaping project in your outdoor space, book an appointment with Lords’ landscaping designer and get professional advice on design and cost estimates.
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