Action 3: Building the platform

Connect a joist at each end of the ledger implementing angle

brackets or galvanised joist hangers and check that they are

rectangular. Fix supporting slabs at the ends of these joists, to

keep them level.

Fit joist hangers (making use of galvanised nails or screws in each

opening) along the ledger at 400mm (16in) intervals. Join to a further

joist at the other end to develop a supporting beam parallel with the ledger.

Check that development is square and

level at all stages.

Nail noggins 400mm (16in) apart between the joists to

fortify and support the assembly.

Fit a 2nd joist onto the finish joist for further

durability and join with coach bolts.

Word of advice: It is practical to use posts on concrete blocks or fence post bases if you

desire to heighten the patio.

Action 4: Setting the decking

Decking is the most accessible part so take proper care to line up all fixings and lay upright with

identical gaps among

planks. You can place the decking panels diagonally or in other

forms but this reveals more cut ends with risks of

splitting. Always use steady

lengths if possible.

Decking boards with an end grain are ideal. Set this way up for

decreased bending using two galvanised nails,

screws or deck clips at every single joist. Use

purpose produced stainless steel or galvanised screws so that your decking isn't

spoilt by corrosion stains.

Use 6mm (1/4in) spacers or nails on each individual area of decking board to

guarantee constant spaces. This is

fundamental for

air flow and makes it possible for for expansion in

moist weather conditions.

Hint: If any boards need joining, put together on

top of joists.

Action 5: Finish

Expand the boards over the sides of the side

joists and cut straight when all are laid. If you need, use a fine-toothed saw to avoid cracking.

Fix on a facia panel to handle the ends - if employing nails, tap the ends first so they are blunt to prevent breaking the decking.

Word of advice: Outdoor patio panels

are stress treated with a long-enduring additive

treatment but the colour will fade after a few months.

You can either leave your deck to age

by natural means or treat it with an

exterior penetrating lube that soaks into the

timber rather than sitting on the surface area. These come

in many different wood

shades and can be brushed, dispersed or rollered onto the

boards.

Not sure if decking is definitely the right decision for your

back garden? See our garden surface manual for more choices.