Decking Designs

Construction

Step 4: Laying the decking

Decking is the most visible part so take care to line up all fixings and lay straight with equal gaps between boards. You can lay the decking boards diagonally or in other shapes (e.g. herringbone) but this exposes more cut ends with risks of splitting. Always use continuous lengths if possible. Decking boards with an end grain are best. Lay this way up for reduced warping using two galvanised nails, screws or deck clips at every joist. Use 6mm (1/4in) spacers or nails on each side of decking board to ensure consistent gaps.

Tip: If any boards need joining, butt together on top of joists.

Step 5: Finishing

Extend the boards over the edges of the side joists and cut straight when all are laid. If you want, use a fine-toothed saw to avoid splitting. Fix on a fascia board to cover the ends.

Tip: If using nails, tap the ends first so they are blunt to avoid splitting the decking. Always drill pilot holes for all screws and nails.