We love decking - it looks great in gardens of all shapes and sizes, and provides a level area for entertaining and garden furniture.
Although garden decking is relatively easy to DIY, we do get lots of questions about how to do it right. Here’s the answers to some of your most frequent decking dilemmas.
How should I choose deck boards?
Look for high quality, sustainably grown timber, as it is more likely to last longer and withstand splitting. Also choose boards which have been pressure treated with water-repellent preservative treatment for longevity and less maintenance. Depending what you will be using your decking for and where it will be you may also want to look for a deck which has anti slip strips.
How much much space should I leave between decking boards?
Leave about a 3-5mm gap between decking boards to allow the timber to expand and contract and also let the rain pass through.
What tools and equipment will I need to build my own decking?
As a minimum, you are likely to need;
- Deck boards
- A tape measure
- A saw or jigsaw suitable for cutting wood
- A drill
- Spirit level
- Hammer and screwdriver
- Decking screws
- Concrete, postcrete or slabs for foundations
- A spade
You may also want;
- Fixing brackets
- Gloves to protect hands from splinters
- String to mark out area to be decked
How should I prepare my garden for decking?
How you prepare the garden will depend on the type of decking you are building and how far above the ground your decking will sit. However you will probably want to clear the area to be decked and level the ground, removing any plants. If the decking is replacing turf, remove the turf and lay weed control landscaping fabric below the area that will be decked.
More help with decking
Still stuck? Get in touch and we will do our best to help. We can also design your decking for you and provide details of reputable installers in your area.