Build a wooden deck with these 4 basic tips

Using the perfect decking boards for your deck can take your whole design from ragged-looking to sleek! Decks have a way of tying an outside and inside space together flawlessly while creating a whole new space to entertain, enjoy and appreciate the natural wonders around you.

So, we thought, why not give you a complete guide to decks, building a deck, tips, and tricks to deck building and so much more!

Strap yourselves in for a super informational post. You might even get a decking plan or two out of it for free!

The basic tips on how to build a deck

You’ve decided it’s time to give your yard a revamp, and to do this you’ve decided on a deck but you have no idea how to go about it? Let us help you out by providing you with a few vital tips and tricks if you’re going DIY and turning yourself into a deck builder.

1. Decide on an overall aesthetic design.

Aesthetic might seem like an afterthought since you want to go out there, buy the decking timber and get this thing started. But in order to tie the project together with your garden and home, we suggest you start with this important step.

When deciding on an aesthetic you will be looking at things like colours, patterns, sunlight and more. Once you’ve decided on this, you can start searching for the correct materials to get the job done and looking perfect.

No idea what aesthetic you’re looking for? Luckily, there’s an App for that! If you have an iPad this will be perfect for you. Head on over to their website or your App Store and download Azek’s Deck Designer now.

Have you ever dreamed about building your own wooden deck? Have you completed your project yet? If so, why not share your accomplishment with us? Comment below with an image of your completed deck and tell us how long it took you to construct your dream deck.

2. Get those permits

Because a deck is a permanent structure, you need to do your research on all the rules and regulations regarding deck building in your area and then get a permit to start constructing. Yes, this may be a hassle, we know. But this is vital if you’re building. Whether it is on your own property or someone else’s.

Want to know what you’re getting yourself into? If an architect or builder had to draw up plans, he would make use of SANS10163 rules and regulations for building.

You can read through it to make sure you are adhering to the law when constructing your deck.

3. Use the correct decking materials

Once you’ve decided on the aesthetic and have permission to start your construction, you can go ahead and delve into the mysteries of all the different decking materials out there.

But since you have an idea of the aesthetic it’s only searching out for the product that will allow you to get the specific look and feel that you’re going for.

While you get various different materials like composite decking, aluminum decking, and other wood decking materials, at Sabie Poles we love our Treated Timber Decking Boards.

Treated Timber Decking Boards sizes (Pine) is 32mmx106mm)

Searching for non-slip decking? Check out our website for a list of all the products we supply - www.sabiepoles.co.za

These pine decking boards can be stained and sealed with any colour of your choice which is why it's at the top of our list for decking supplies. The decking boards/planks that are sold by Sabie Poles are CCA pressure treated decking boards (Treated according to H3 CCA Class). Therefore, the timber will not rot, or be susceptible to other wood deterioration causes.

Furthermore, you need your deck’s framework to be strong, durable and something with a guarantee. Therefore, at Sabie Poles, we recommend the highest quality CCA Treated Timber Eucalyptus Poles. These poles come with a minimum of 15-year guarantee and are strong enough to hold the weight of anything you might want to put on the deck.

 4. Know the deck construction process

Here are the most basic steps to constructing your deck:

First Step - Plan the dimensions. Look at the area where you will be building. Thereafter, mark out the dimensions to ensure your building plan suits the location.

Second Step - Prepare the area for construction. This entails cleaning the building area, removing rubble and rocks.

Third Step - Get those foundations up. Dig holes and get the concrete with the support structures in there.

Fourth Step - Build the frame. Start building your “skeleton” on which all the external decking boards will be attached to.

Fith Step - Install decking boards and material. 

Sixth Step - Install any steps, gates and other functional design elements. 

Seventh Step - Complete the deck. This entails painting, sealing or adding other design elements that you want to add to your deck.

Deck designs vary in size, colour, shape and materials. It is important that you decide on the best design to suit your location and style. Therefore you need to stop and contemplate step one - 1. Decide on an overall aesthetic design - before you commit to starting your project.

Remember; it's okay to take your time. Rome was not built in one day and your dream deck should be carefully planned and executed.

#Happyplanning