How to Build a Deck

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This step-by-step guide reveals the stages involved in building a raised timber deck. Many of the skills you’ll learn can also be applied to more complex projects, such as curved decks – but for elaborate designs you may prefer to call in the professionals.

For this step-by-step, we’ve used pre-finished decking boards, which typically won’t need re-treating for at least two years after installation. Before you begin, ensure you plan your deck carefully – ideally the boards plus expansion gaps (usually 5mm) should finish completely flush with the outer facings of the framework.

Project guide: Raised timber garden deck

Step 1:

Prepare a level, weed-free area for the deck. To create a framework, cut the 100mm x 50mm tanalised timber to the required length, then join using exterior wood screws. Check the frame is square by measuring from corner to corner. Adjust if necessary

Step 2:

To raise the frame, cut four blocks of tanalised timber to the desired height. Screw these to the inside fo the frame at each corner, ensuring they’re flush with the top. Use at least three screws per block, as these legs will be taking all the weight

Step 3:

If your deck will be sitting on grass or soil, you’ll need to place blocks or slabs underneath edge leg to spread the load and provide a level, stable base. Position and adjust accordingly, checking the frame is level with your spirit level

Step 4:

On a small deck, three joists is sufficient (one in the middle and the others at the centre-point between the edge of the frame and the centre joist). Mark across one side of the frame first, then repeat on the opposite side. On larger decks, set joists at 400mm centres

Step 5:

Measure across the inside of the frame at your joist marks, then cut lengths of the tanalised timber to suit. To fix the joists, tap them in with a hammer until flush with the top, then screw them in place from the outside of the frame

Step 6:

Support the joists with additional legs, spaced at 1m intervals. Follow the same method as shown in steps 2 and 3 for these legs, ensuring each is supported by a suitable block or slab

Step 7:

For the facing, measure the length of the outer sides of your frame and cut the decking boards to suit. Mark the cutting lines with a square to ensure a straight edge. Countersink the facing and screw to the frame, ensuring the facing is flush with the top

Step 8:

To begin laying the deck, measure across the top of the frame and cut a board to length. Place the first board flush with the outside edge of the frame and facing, and perpendicular to the joists. Mark the location of each joist on the board

Step 9:

Mark and countersink screw holes over the centre of each joist. Be sure to use a sharp countersink that will leave a clean hole. If necessary, drill a pilot hole to prevent splitting. Use at least two screws per joist for each decking board

Step 10:

You should incorporate a 5mm expansion gap between each board (as timber expands and contracts according to outdoor temperatures). You can user a spacer to do this, such as an off-cut of wood or plastic – or simply drop a spare screw in as shown here

Step 11:

Continue the process until you finish your raised timber deck. If you’ve used pre-treated decking boards, they shouldn’t need any further painting or staining

This step-by-step guide is supplied courtesy of TradesSupermarket. Main image: Q-Deck Lyptus hardwood boards