Patios are out, decking is in. Some people will tell you that the decking fad is finished, but decking is still a very popular option with a lot of people. This article gives you some advice on how to lay decking in your garden, with tips on how to approach the project, construct the deck and install it properly.
The first thing to do is decide where you want your deck and draw up a plan of your design. Consider laying the boards in the direction that will cause you the least amount of work in cutting and shaping. Make sure that you can purchase the boards in lengths that are suitable for your design. The decking is going to be raised up on a frame and advice varies on whether this should be above or below the level of your damp proof course, but as long as water cannot run off your decking above the damp course you should be okay. Most of the water will run off underneath the frame.
If you are going to cover up any manhole covers, washing line holders or other items, make sure that you plan for cutting the necessary holes, or for occasional access that you can unscrew boards easily.
To build your frame, position the lengths of timber vertically rather like "I" beams. Lay up your cross pieces every metre or so, and screw the frame together. Leave enough height to take into account the decking board thickness to your final floor level. Use expansion bolts to attach your frame to the wall. Remember that your frme will be exposed to wather on the ground so treat the wood with a suitable water repelling product. Most decking boards will come pre-treated, but there are many products available if you want to add your own treatment, or re-apply at a later date.
A gentle angle of the decking will help water to run off, but don't make it too noticable. If you are adding steps into the decking, say to drop down to a lawn level, you can also lay these at a slight angle to avoid water pooling on them. If you are adding handrails or edging to your decked area, it will be more robust if you don't attach it just to the wooden decking & frame, but go through to the ground and a properly secured foundation.
Screwing the decking boards down is a big job and a power screwdriver is recommended. Self tapping screws can be used but consider counter-sinking in advance to get a smooth finish. Sand and rub all the cut ends smooth to avoid splinters.
Now add the garden furniture, make yourself a gin and tonic, and sit back and admire your handywork. There have been scare stories about Rats living underneath decking, so make sure that you don't drop old barbecued sausages and crumbs down there to attract the vermin. Weeds can also be a problem, so you could cover the gorund area under the deck with some bark chippings or even a sheet to prevent them coming thorough. Alternatively make sure you have access to spray underneath.
You can order online at the Garden Centre