!#8# How To Install Decking - In 7 Easy Steps | !8: String Swing Hanger Top Quality

!±8± How To Install Decking - In 7 Easy Steps

Lets get this straight, I have installed a deck on every property I have lived in, renovated or developed, every single one! Knowing how to install decking on a property not only drastically increases its value, it also gives the property the appeal of a much larger living area. So that being said, knowing how to install decking is a must for any home owner, weekend DIYer or amateur developer. The good news is that this is a relatively simple task, that with a bit of effort can be successfully completed in a matter of days.

Step 1:
Your first step is to mark out your deck area with a string line, and check that it is square. Completing this process is essential, as it will act as your guide throughout the build. For example the string line will allow you to see where exactly to dig your post holes, and where the edge of your deck will actually sit.

For checking the deck is square, make sure you square the string line using the 3,4,5 method. More often than not when people are learning how to install decking, it is this task that most people struggle with. This is a crucial skill to master when learning how to install decking.

Step 2:
This step is simple. With a spade remove any sod that will lie under the area of your deck. Make sure you remove the sod slightly beyond the boundary of your deck marked by the string line.

Handy Tip: To prevent weeds growing through your finished deck, lay a weed mat underneath the area of your deck.

Step 3:
Now it is time to attach the ledger to the house. Whilst attaching the ledger it is imperative that you make sure that it is level and at the height you desire the floor of your deck.

Attach the ledger board to the house with carriage bolts and washers. It is important that you do not counter sink the bolts or the structural integrity of the ledger will be compromised.

Step 4:
Now comes a bit of manual labour. It is time to dig the post holes. Make sure you dig them to an absolute minimum of 600mm (roughly 24 inches) deep.

If the thought of digging the post holes manually sends shivers up your spine, you are in luck! Head down to your like hire shop, and rent a post hole borer. One of these machines will make short work of digging those post holes.

Once the post holes are dug, concrete the posts in and make sure that they are level. Brace the posts to a level position if required while the concrete sets.

Step 5:
Now work out the deck floor height on each post and secure the beams at this level. The beams may either rest on the top of the posts or be bolted on to the sides.

Step 6:
It is now time to install the joists. The joists can be attached to the ledger board with joist hangers. The joists are then attached to the beams also using joist hangers.

Step 7:
Install the decking on top of the joists. Make sure you space the decking evenly over the whole deck. A wedge of timber or a nail placed in the gap between each board will do the trick.

So there we have it, 7 simple steps to install a wonderful new deck to your house or project. As mentioned above, knowing how to install decking is valuable knowledge for any property owner or DIYer. Also remember that knowing how to install decking, does not just reside in the construction itself. It also requires you to comply with the local building codes.