Building a decking frame can be an exciting and rewarding project. But it also requires planning and mastering the right skills to ensure it comes out just as you had envisioned.
It can initially seem intimidating, but with the proper preparation, tools and instructions, anyone can create a beautiful decking frame in seven days or less. A good starting point is to source high-quality materials from reputable timber suppliers like Harlow Bros.
This is a step-by-step guide for building a decking frame in a week. Read on to find out more.
Measuring and Marking Out the Area
Measuring and laying out the area is essential before beginning the project of building a decking frame.
Start by measuring the length and width of your designated space for the decking frame. Use stakes and string to mark out where the edges of the frame will be placed on the ground, ensuring that you have enough room for any desired features, such as railings for steps.
Ensure that your measurements are accurate so you don’t run into issues later in the process. Once you have marked out your layout, you can prepare the ground for your decking frame.
Preparing the Ground for Your Decking Frame
Before building a decking frame, it’s important to prepare the ground properly.
Pre-construction planning and understanding your climate can help ensure your new structure is stable and safe. Here are some steps you should take before beginning the construction:
- Choose an appropriate spot for your decking frame, ensuring enough space in all directions for the entire project.
- As mentioned above, measure the area where you plan to build and use stakes or strings to mark off the site’s boundaries.
- Level out any uneven areas within this boundary using shovels, rakes, or other tools as necessary.
- Remove turf if desired, although this isn’t necessary unless you need extra soil depth for subsurface drainage systems or footings below frost line requirements.
Building the Base and Installing the Support Posts
Having prepared the ground for your decking frame, it is time to build the base and install the support posts.
To begin with, you will need to mark the area where you want your decking frame to be built. Then measure and set up your decking footings in preparation for installing the support posts. Ensure that each footing has been levelled before beginning the installation of your support posts.
Next, start by attaching two beams at either end of your proposed decking frame – these should span the width of your planned construction. Once this is done, screw two more beams running parallel between them, ensuring they are perfectly level during installation.
Following this step, insert four upright posts equidistant from one another into holes dug into each corner of the square or rectangle-shaped foundation created by the beams.
Finally, firmly secure all posts using nails or screws and check that everything is properly aligned and plumbed before adding additional materials to your structure.
Installing the Beams and Joists for Your Decking Frame
The next step to building your decking frame is installing the beams and joists.
Start by measuring how long and wide you want your deck to be, then determine where on the house or other support structure you will attach them. You’ll also need a drill, screws, metal connectors, and post anchors for attaching the beams securely.
Begin by laying out two rows of posts along each edge of the overall length of the deck; these should line up with pre-drilled holes in both the support structure and your chosen beam material. Use a leveller to ensure they are straight before securing them with screws from inside the support structure. Once this is done, connect each row of posts using metal connectors for added strength.
Finally, secure additional post anchors onto each end of the beam material and any intermediate points between it and its supports. This helps keep everything stable while providing extra security against shifting over time due to wind or weather changes.
Finishing Your Decking Frame with Deck Boards and Railings
Once you have completed the decking frame, it’s time to finish it with deck boards and railings.
Start by laying out your chosen deck boards along the perimeter of the frame. Use a tape measure or plank as a guide to ensure they are evenly spaced apart.
Secure each board using an appropriate fastener such as screws or nails. Ensuring all screws/nails are countersunk for a neat finish is important.
When attaching the deck boards, ensure to:
- Use a power drill with an appropriately sized bit for drilling pilot holes before driving in screws/nails
- Make sure all fixings are driven into joists securely
- Take extra care when cutting around any obstacles (e.g. posts)
Once you’ve finished adding the decking boards, add railings to provide safety and security on the edges of your new decking area.
Many types of railing are available for purchase – choose one that suits your style and budget. When installing railings, follow manufacturer instructions carefully and consider hiring professional help if needed.
With everything installed correctly, sit back and admire your work – you now have a brand-new outdoor space!
In Summary
You now know how to build a decking frame! As you can see, it is quickly achievable if you plan and devote the necessary time. The result will be well worth all your hard work! You’ll have an amazing new outdoor space with friends and family that provides beauty and function.
But don’t get too cocky about this task – there’s always room for error, even after all the planning. So make sure you double-check each step along the way; otherwise, what was meant to be a great addition to your home could turn into a major eyesore instead. Good luck!