Installation of timber decking

The main reasons for this are: a to allow for drainage; and b to allow for airflow. By installing composite decking boards directly onto timber decking means that there is very little allowance for either drainage or airflow, which therefore can ultimately end in your composite deck sitting in water, which will then end in damaged boards due to moisture build-up between the timber boards and the composite deck boards.

Not only this, but the aged timber decking that the composite decking will be sitting on will be prone to rotting and will therefore degrade rapidly over time. We suggest opting for the sensible option of installing our composite deck boards directly onto a joist subframe network. Tip 1 — Ensure that your joist spacings sit at the recommend centres of mm. Many timber decking projects have slightly wider centres that usually sit at around mm so this may require reinforced timber joists.

Tip 2 — Incorporate a drainage slope to your decking subframe where possible. This is all dependent on how well the decking subframe was built in the first place. When water sits on timber joists, this is when problems start to arise such as rot and warping. We advise incorporating a slight decline to your framework which will combat this allowing water to run off and reduce water pooling beneath your composite deck.

The decline rate we advise is approximately Whilst we generally recommend opting for composite joists or plastic lumber subframes over timber subframes, we understand that sometimes it is cheaper and easier to lay composite decking onto your pre-existing or newly laid timber subframe.

Last updated 4th November Want to find out how much it costs to install garden decking? This guide offers an in-depth breakdown of timber decking costs, the decking installation process, building regulations and any additional costs. First , let's take a look at the factors that affect the cost of timber garden decking. The cost of installing timber decking will depend on the Size , quality and thickness of timber decking.

There are various decking materials available, the cheapest of which are pressure-treated pine products. Pine is affordable, aesthetically-pleasing and can be easily installed with nails and screws. However, they can suffer badly from splits and cracks. Premium decking products are typically made from cedar or tropical hardwood boards, which tend to cost more than budget timer. There are many things you need to consider before having your timber boards installed, including:.

A ground-level deck is decking that is installed close to the ground. This option is the easiest to install as it doesn't require the use of a ladder.

As the decking is near the ground, it typically does not need a stair installation, which will help to reduce costs significantly. Another advantage of choosing a ground-level deck is that you do not need planning permission if your decking is less than 30cm off the ground. Raised decking , on the other hand, will normally require you to apply for planning permission, as the timber decking will be lifted off the ground.

You may also need to purchase stairs to access the decking and railings for safety reasons which will increase the cost. Many people choose the raised option, as it creates a great aesthetic while also reducing wear on your decking, as it is away from the ground and will, therefore, be less affected by mould and rot, allowing it to last longer. Timber decking is usually broken up into three categories — budget, medium and premium timber decking , which all have different qualities.

Budget timber decking is typically mass-produced and can be found in local stores. While medium timber decking usually offers a more bespoke design which allows you to customise mass-produced products.

Premium options include hardwood boards and IPE boards which both offer a high-quality aesthetic. Decking tiles are also cheaper to install and are usually fitted on a DIY basis. If so, you can save a significant amount on labour, however, you will also need to consider the following decking supply costs :. Now, let's take a look at the decking installer rates and how long it takes to install timber decking. Tradespeople will often work in pairs, which means you will have to pay double the day rate.

However, extra help means the decking will be installed quicker. On average, decking takes around days , depending on the area size and if any excavation work is required. You may also want to hire a gardener who will maintain your garden by cutting the grass, keep your plants and watered and sort any grass or weed issues. To lay your decking, you will need to install joists which will act as the framework for the decking. Decking joists can come in various sizes, and the ones you choose will depend on how much decking you want.

To enhance the look of your decking, you may want to add decking lights. A modular decking system is a perfect solution for anyone looking to reduce their costs, as this type of decking can easily be installed without the help of a professional.

It has everything you need, including deck tiles which can be fitted in a matter of minutes. To help you understand the process of timber decking installation, take a look at the following guide:. The next stage will depend on the positioning of your decking as there are several installations to choose from, including:. Laying a solid footing structure which involves constructing the outer frame first with joists. The space will be then market out to establish where the posts will sit. Posts will be then be screwed into the frame; then holes will need to be made to accommodate the posts.

Once the posts are deposited in the holes, concrete should then be poured into each hole to secure the posts and timber frame in place. This should then be left to dry for 7 days before painting or making any other changes. Pros and Cons of Timber Decking Before installing timber decking, you should consider the following pros and cons:. The construction of low-level timber decking is a project that is well within the scope of most DIY enthusiasts. Still, when building the deck, it is crucial to follow the recommendations of the product manufacturer for the decking kit you purchase, while also making sure the correct tools are used, and the appropriate safety precautions are taken.

While you can save money with a DIY decking installation , if you are planning a raised deck, specialist expertise is required to ensure the deck is structurally safe for people walking on it.

Raised deck structures should be built by experienced installers to ensure that the deck is reliable and fit for purpose. Raised decks will also perhaps need planning permission , so it is always wise to consult a professional in any case.

Post your job in minutes and get quotes from local and reliable trades. It's FREE. No obligations. According to experts, the best time to install timber decking is between October and April.

Installing decking within this timeframe will preserve the natural aesthetic. Having it installed in colder months like December and January will also allow you to get the most out of it during the spring and summer, which are the seasons where the garden is used the most.

This will also ensure that your timber boards are thoroughly dried out, in contrast to the summer when timber tends to expand and contract, which can lead to damage.

In terms of ongoing maintenance, the decking should be kept free of leaves, and dust so needs an occasional sweep up. Plus, a chemical fungicide can be applied once a year to prevent mould, moss, algae and lichen growth use a product specifically designed for decking to ensure it will not discolour the timber. Decking can be pressure washed, but this should only be done on the lowest possible power setting.

This will help to main your timber decking as the majority of wood oils contain UV protection which prevents discolouration and also protects again mould or rot due to its waterproofing qualities. You should be careful if you have IPE, Teak or exotic wood decking as this is naturally oily anyway, so you should try not to apply as much as this type of wood will not absorb excess oil.

Composite decking is fastly becoming the biggest competitor for timber decking. It's made from a mixture of wood, plastic and bonding agent to give it an authentic appearance which needs less maintenance than timber decking.

PVC is a human-made decking create from a synthetic resin that contains no wood fibres and is completely plastic. It's low maintenance and easy to clean, but if the basic PVC decking is bought, it can have a 'plastic' appearance. Aluminium decking has a lifespan of years and isn't vulnerable to damp, rot, woodworm or mould. It's maintenance-free and slip-resistant in wet or icy weather conditions.

There are a variety of types of plastic decking, including recycled plastic eco decking, made entirely from recycled plastic.