LAY A DECK

Thomas Goodman, construction expert for Myjobquote, reveals how to install DIY decking

1 Here’s what you’ll need: decking boards; decking frame; decking screws; weed membrane; coach screws; pegs; tape measure; pencil; drill with a wood bit, saw; tamper; spade; string; spirit level.

2 Pick the right decking for you, choosing from softwood, hardwood, composite and PVC plastic. Decide on the length of the boards and the space they’ll take up. Account for gaps left between them to stop pooling and accommodate expansion.

3 The area of decking mustn’t cover more than 50 per cent of the garden – anything over that limit will require planning permission. For the exact amount required, multiply the length of the space by the width to calculate the decking space in square metres.

4 Create an outline for your decking. Hammer pegs into each corner and run string to them for a temporary frame. Clear away turf, rocks, plants or weeds until only bare soil is visible. Excavate this to a depth of around 50mm.

5 Lay down a weed membrane and cover with about 40mm of gravel. Install the decking frame and joists – which lay horizontally inside the frame with 400mm gaps in between. Once in position, secure the joists using galvanized screws. Saw a chunk of wood from the foot of the newel posts so they sit cleanly when you fit to the frame.

6 Measure your decking boards to check they fit in the space; if they don’t, cut them down to size. Put them in place, leaving a gap of around 3mm to 5mm between each board and the newel posts. When you’re happy with the design and position of the boards, drill holes in the corners and centre of each one and screw them in place. Once they’re fixed, check to see they fit properly in the frame. To make adjustments, measure and cut to the right size.