Action 3: Building the platform

Add a joist at each end of the ledger employing angle

mounting brackets or galvanised joist hangers and verify that they are

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

hold them level.

Fit joist hangers (using galvanised nails or screws in each

hole) 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 design is square and

level at all phases.

Nail noggins 400mm (16in) away from each other between the joists to

fortify and stabilize the assembly.

Fit a 2nd joist upon the finish joist for additional

strength and join with coach mounting bolts.

Hint: It is practical to use posts on concrete blocks or fencing post bases if you

hope to heighten the patio.

Action 4: Installing the decking

Decking is the most visual part so take care and

attention to line up all fixings and lay straight with

equivalent spaces in between

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

forms but this reveals more cut ends with problems of

splitting. At all times use constant

measures if possible.

Decking panels with an end grain are perfect. Set this way up for

reduced warping using a pair of galvanised nails,

anchoring screws or terrace clips at each and every joist. Use

purpose produced stainless steel or galvanised screws so that your decking is not

spoilt by rust stains.

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

ensure consistent gaps. This is

important for

venting and makes it possible for for expansion in

rainy weather.

Idea: If any panels need joining, put together on

top of joists.

Action 5: Finishing

Extend the planks over the corners of the side

joists and trim directly when all are set. If you would like, use a fine-toothed saw to avert splitting.

Fix on a facia panel to handle the ends - if employing nails, tap

into the ends first so they are blunt to prevent splitting the decking.

Suggestion: Patio planks

are tension treated with a long-enduring chemical

procedure but the colour will diminish after a few months.

You can either leave your patio to age

naturally or treat it with an

exterior penetrating lube that soaks right into the

wood rather than resting on the exterior. These come

in many different solid wood

shades and can be brushed, dispersed or rollered onto the

boards.

Not sure if decking is definitely the right option for your

garden? See our yard surface area guidebook for more solutions.