A timber decking is the easiest way to get that classic, natural look with a contemporary twist. You’ll find it easy to install and maintain for years to come. Build a timber deck using simple and inexpensive DIY steps. A timber deck is great for entertaining, but you can’t build one without the right hardware. The decision to build a timber deck comes down to aesthetic appeal and cost effectiveness. If you can find a cheap source of recycled timbers, then you are already ahead of the game.
If you want your deck to stand the test of time, you’ll need to take some extra steps in building it. A timber decking can last for decades if properly constructed, which is why many people look at this material as an investment. Installing timber decking requires a little more skill than other types of materials such as composite decking just because of its physical properties, but once you understand how it works, installation should be pretty straightforward.
Decks are both beautiful and functional outdoor living spaces. They add elegance and value to your home while providing the perfect space for you to enjoy your backyard. Want to know how to build a deck? It’s not as difficult as it seems. Using our expert guide, anyone can build a deck in a day or two with the right tools and preparation. Read on for all the details.
Decide Where You Want To Put Your Decking
Now that you know what a timber decking is and how to build one, it’s time to decide where you want your decking. You need to make sure that you have enough space for the size of timber decking that will meet your needs. To measure the space available, follow these steps:
- Measure the length and width of the area where your timber decking will go.
- Add up all four measurements in feet or meters and divide by 4 (this will give you how far apart each board should be spaced).
- Subtract 1 inch from this number; this is how far out from each edge of your boards should be set (for example: if using 1-inch thick boards, subtract 2 inches).
Now get ready to measure around this area with measuring tape or chalk line so that it looks like a rectangle shape with no gaps between boards (see diagram). You will now have an outline for where each board goes. If there are any trees or plants nearby then consider cutting them back safely so they don’t interfere with any future work on site – but remember not all plants are suitable for removing without killing them off completely so check first before making any drastic decisions.
Get The Ground Ready
- Get The Ground Ready
- Dig out the area where you want to build the deck. Check that it is level and make any necessary adjustments with a sledgehammer.
Lay Down A Weed Barrier
Weed barrier is a thin, plastic sheet that you lay down before you start building your decking. It prevents weeds from growing through your decking, which can cause damage and harm to the surface of your timber.
You should lay down weed barrier before you build your decking, so that it’s completely sealed off from the ground underneath.
Create A Base For Your Decking
Before you can begin the process of laying decking, you should first make a base for it. A good base will help to ensure that your deck is stable and safe. You can either create a concrete base, or use wooden blocks to create a wooden base.
If you choose to use concrete as your base, then you need to ensure that there are no cracks in the ground where water could collect and cause damage over time. If there are any holes or cracks in your soil that might lead to flooding when it rains hard, then use some hardcore mix (a mixture of sand and cement) before laying down your concrete slabs so as not to have them crack later on down the line.
You should also make sure that any drainage pipes are protected by placing them under ground; otherwise they may get damaged during construction or when people walk across them while playing games on top of their new decking area.
Time To Add Your Deck Boards
Once the joists are in place, it’s time to start adding your deck boards. This can be done using a nail gun for smaller boards and by hand for larger ones. To ensure that your deck is level, use a spirit level on every board before you secure it into place.
Once all of the decking has been added, you may need to use screws or nails to secure any gaps between them so they stay firmly attached. If necessary, attach cross-boards over larger gaps using woodscrews or nails (depending on what type of wood you used).
Once everything is securely in place and tight against each other, use a flat-head screwdriver or hammer (depending on what type of wood you used) to hammer down any protruding edges underneath these pieces so they’re flush with all surfaces surrounding them
Now That Your Decking Is Down, You Can Add Skirting Around The Outside (optional)
Now that your decking is down, you can add skirting around the outside (optional). Skirting is the part of the deck that sits on the ground and serves as a base for your deck. It can be left off if you want the deck to be freestanding, but it’s recommended so that water doesn’t get into your home through any gaps in your floorboards.
Wood is a traditional material for creating skirting boards, but there are many other options out there such as plastic or metal. These materials have their own benefits and drawbacks, so make sure to consider them before deciding which one will work best for your environment
Building your own deck isn’t an impossible task. With the right tools and preparation, you can have your dream deck up in one day!
Building a deck is not an impossible task, but it does take some preparation and the right tools. Here’s how to build a timber decking:
- Prepare the ground
- Lay down a weed barrier
- Create a base
- Add the deck boards
- Add skirting
Final words
Don’t worry too much about making mistakes because it’s an easy fix. If you’ve followed the instructions correctly, you should be able to complete the project in around 3 hours or less. If this is your first time building anything like this then give yourself some extra time as it’s always best to take things slow and not rush anything.
