Let’s say your decking is going to be in the middle of your back garden, freestanding with no handrail or steps. If your decking is 12 feet (3. 7 m) x 12 feet (3. 7 m) then ensure you buy 14 feet (4. 3 m) lengths to reduce cost and waste. You will also need 6"x2" lengths for the subframe. {“smallUrl”:“https://www. wikihow. com/images/thumb/6/61/Build-Simple-Square-Decking-Step-2. jpg/v4-460px-Build-Simple-Square-Decking-Step-2. jpg”,“bigUrl”:"/images/thumb/6/61/Build-Simple-Square-Decking-Step-2. jpg/aid1389917-v4-728px-Build-Simple-Square-Decking-Step-2. jpg",“smallWidth”:460,“smallHeight”:345,“bigWidth”:728,“bigHeight”:546,“licensing”:"<div class="mw-parser-output">
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Take into consideration the soil’s integrity when choosing a method. If your soil is solid then two blocks, sand and shingle may suffice. If your soil is bad then maybe consider a slightly larger hole filled in with concrete. Decking with posts and handrail can be supported by digging holes, placing the posts in plumb and filling with concrete. Remember that your deck needs to be off level slightly to allow rainwater to flow off its edge. Water flow should move the same direction as the decking surface. Supporting blocks or infills can be levelled with a straight edge and a level sitting on top. [1] X Research source
NOTE. Only use galvanized nails or decking screws, 4" preferably. [2] X Research source
NOTE. Use decking screws as they are specially coated for this job. Normal screws may decay and snap over time causing twisting. If the board thickness is 30mm then 70mm screws are ideal.
Allow a constant gap of 3mm-8mm for expansion between the boards as they will absorb water in the winter and dry out and shrink in the summer. Failure to do this will result in the boards lifting, splitting and not drying out. This will lead to rotting and a very short life expectancy. [3] X Research source
