Published: 10/10/23 By: Mike Bekin
Laying timber decking is an achievable project for most competent DIY enthusiasts. If you are a construction worker who is used to working with timber, it will be a breeze! To guide you through the process, our team at EcoChoice have put together everything you need to know, ensuring a high-quality, long-lasting deck.
Know Your Timber Species
The first step to creating a timber deck is choosing the right species. You need a wood which is suitable for outdoor use and can withstand the wear and tear of dining outside and entertaining guests. But you will also want to consider your outdoor aesthetic. Some reliable species we recommend for your deck include:
Plan Your Decking Layout
A lot of your decking’s success lies in the initial preparation. Start by planning the area you want your deck to be and measuring up for the timber. If you are not sure how many boards you will need, get in touch with our timber suppliers at EcoChoice and we will be more than happy to lend a hand.
Prepare Your Decking Area
Remove debris, grass and plants from the area where you are planning on placing your decking. Level the ground until it is flat and use a spirit level to ensure it is even. This is crucial to ensuring the stability of your deck, so make sure you take your time to get it right. Lay some gravel or a dark permeable weed membrane to avoid weeds growing between your deck boards too.
Create Your Decking Frame
Your decking boards need to sit on a frame, which will be made up of joists and bearers. Place the bearers horizontally across the length of your decking site and secure them to either posts or the side of the adjacent building. Add joists perpendicularly to the bearers, spacing them evenly.
Lay Your Decking Boards
Start by laying the first decking board along one edge of the frame. Leave a small gap (around 5-8mm) between each board to allow for expansion/contraction due to weather changes. Use 2 stainless steel screws to secure the boards at every intersection with the joists, ensuring they are evenly spaced and flush with the surface. Continue laying the boards in rows. Cut boards to fit around obstacles like posts or trees – always sealing their ends with an appropriate compound (you can find at most timber merchants).
Finish Your Decking
Once your boards are in place, check for any protruding screws or nails and make sure they are properly fixed. Finish your timber with a protective treatment if necessary, a wood stain or decking oil, which will add to the longevity of your decking and enhance its appearance.
Sustainable Timber Decking at EcoChoice
Laying decking is not the trickiest task in the world, but it does take a little bit of knowledge and some good quality timber! If you are looking for premium, sustainable timber boards, our team can help. We supply FSC-certified timber for decking, cladding and more across the UK, so get in touch to start an order and get your decking project rolling.
Image: Christine Bird / Shutterstock.com
