New to landscaping and wondering how you’d go about building a deck? It can be a daunting prospect, but our experts at Haldane Fisher are here to walk you through how to build a deck for your garden.

What you need when building a deck

Whether you're considering a timber deck or a composite deck, Haldane Fisher offers a variety of high-quality products to help you bring your deck-building vision to life.

Our decking materials can suit your preferences and requirements. Unsure whether you should be building a timber deck or composite instead?

Timber Decking: Ideal for a classic, natural look, timber decks provide warmth and character to your outdoor space. Choose from treated softwood or hardwood decking boards for durability.

  • Durable, can withstand a lot of wear and tear when properly maintained
  • Easy to install and DYI friendly to install and repair.
  • Most natural solution to an outdoor space that is environmentally friendly and sourced from sustainable resources.
  • Cost effective.

Tips: Ensure proper support with a sturdy frame, regularly seal or paint to protect from the elements, use galvanised screws to avoid rusting.

We’d recommend: Decking Treadboard Treated

Composite Decking: Known for its low maintenance, longevity, and eco-friendly properties. We offer composite boards in various colours and finishes for those building a composite deck with a specific aesthetic in mind. Benefits include:

  • Low maintenance with only needing cleaned and not stained or sealed.
  • Touch of luxury to your outdoor space with different styles available.
  • Rot resistant.
  • Warranty offered by manufacturer.
  • Slip resistant compared to timber decking.

You’re also going to need

When making a deck, you’ll also need to consider tools and hardware like nails, screws and fixings. Thankfully you can pick up all the supplies that you need through our online store, as well as a wide range of workwear for when your project is underway.

Planning Your Deck Project:

There are several things that you need to consider, like whether you will be building a timber deck over concrete or on the ground.

Before diving into construction, start by envisioning the size, shape, and purpose of your garden deck.

Consider the following key factors:

  • Determine the location and size of your deck, keeping in mind factors like sunlight exposure, access points, and desired functionalities.
  • Sketch a rough layout of your deck design, including features like stairs, handrails, seating areas, and any special additions like pergolas or gates.

Building a timber deck: instructions

If you opt for a timber deck, here are the steps for a successful construction process:

  • Prepare the site by clearing vegetation. As part of planning you should have a patch of ground which is level and offers proper drainage.
  • Install a sturdy subframe using pressure-treated timber joists and bearers to support the decking boards. You do this by laying your outer frame, and then installing subframe inner joists for stability.
  • This frame should feature 5 to 8mm expansion gaps along the length of all boards as well as a 3mm gap along the ends. This is because timber can expand during certain conditions.
  • As part of planning, you should have measured and cut your timber decking board, so you will be able to lay the timber decking boards with proper spacing and secure them using stainless steel screws or hidden fastening systems. You start in one corner of your sub-frame, and work your way across until the deck is complete. Make sure the decking is in the opposite direction to the inner joists.
  • Add finishing touches like handrails, balustrades, and timber posts for safety and aesthetics.
  •  

A top tip from our expert: “Ensure proper support with a sturdy frame, use correct accessories to include clips and trims to achieve manufacturer warranty.

“Use 300mm centres on joists, allow expansion gaps at the edges and where boards butt against each other.”

Building  a Composite Deck:

For those choosing a composite deck, the initial process is mostly the same, however when it is time to install your deck, you can do so with specialised clips or hidden fasteners for a seamless finish and uniform appearance.

You can then complete the deck with composite railing systems, post sleeves, and accessories for a cohesive look.

Adding Special Features:

Enhance your garden deck with unique features that cater to your lifestyle and preferences:

  • Consider incorporating a composite deck gate for added security and style, especially if you have pets or children.
  • Explore options for building a low-level timber deck for a seamless transition from indoors to outdoors.
  • Create a raised composite deck for elevated views and a distinctive look in your outdoor space.

Deck Maintenance and Care:

To ensure the longevity and beauty of your garden deck, you should regularly clean it to remove debris, dirt, and stains using appropriate deck cleaning products.

You can also improve longevity by applying protective coatings or sealants as needed to preserve the appearance and durability of your timber or composite deck.

With landscaping season now upon us, there’s no better time to get your garden project underway!