Decking Blog: Part 1 – The Framework

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You have decided to do some DIY (building a deck can be straightforward if your ground is level), but where to start with your decking project? At Park Timber we are here to help – if you want our expert advice call us on 01952 770779.

First thing is to decide where you want to build your deck, whether you want your deck to be raised or on the ground and which way you want the deckboards to run.

Decking projects can transform an outside are whether that is in your garden, by a log cabin or on a patio.

For more detail visit our DIY help page where you will find a ‘how to fit decking video‘.

Before you can start building the deck you need to ensure the site is properly prepped.

  1. Measure the site according to your plan and mark this out
  2. Clear away any plants rocks or weeds and remove any turf – for the best results use a spirit level to check the whole area is level
  3. For a simple project you can lay straight on the ground using Weedtex as a control fabric.

Laying the framework:

  • The timber we advise for the framework is our Sawn and Treated C16/C24, generally we would advise customers who are making a deck on ground level to use 47 x 100 size or larger (if you are doing a raised deck you will need more depth).
  • Cut or purchase the frame in the required length (our Sawn and Treated timber comes in a variety of lengths), using wood screws to secure the frame.
  • If you need to raise the frame for a raised deck you will need to use posts and secure them in the ground with postmix. You can then screw your framework onto these posts ensuring they are flush to the top.
  • Once you have completed the framework, you can insert your joists these should run the opposite way to your deckboards. We recommend you run joists every 400mm and either nail or screw these in.
  • For additional strength we advise to add in noggins, these are pieces of timber which should be staggered between your joists.
  • If your joists are not long enough you can extend these by placing an off cut across the join and then screwing this to both ends of the timber.
  • If you had envisioned your deck to be an extension on from a building we have express nails available to secure your framework into brickwork.

Once all the above steps have been followed you should have a strong level frame ready for Part 2: Laying the deck

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