Construction

Each and every deck project begins with obtaining a thorough understanding of exactly how our client envisages their newly created garden space. In the initial planning stages we liaise carefully with the client to ascertain factors such as the correct size and placement of the deck, the best suited material choices, drainage considerations and additional requirements, such as safety railings.

Initially an assessment of the proposed area is conducted to ensure there are no amenity lines below the ground level or other factors that may impeach the construction. Where applicable it may be required for ground levelling or vegetation clearance to be undertaken before deck works to begin. The area is then marked out with string lines and stakes to the clients specific measurements. 

Prior to starting works, a plan will have be created for the positioning of support posts which will raise the decks framework above the ground.  These posts are the sturdy foundation of the decking and can be supplied as either timber or composite plastic. Holes are bored deep into the ground to where the posts are placed and secured with concrete.

Every completed deck should have spacing between the boards, with this spacing comes small amounts of natural light that penetrates to the ground below. For this reason it is essential to provide ground coverage in the form of a geotextile membrane to supress any vegetation growth below the deck.

Once the concrete securing the posts has firmly set we begin the process of affixing the framework to the posts, we often refer to this as the sub-frame.  The joists that make up the frame are secured to the posts in intervals that ensure correct weight distribution is achieved across the entire deck area. The joists are accompanied by noggins which are secured between the joists to strengthen the frame. During this stage of construction we must take into consideration the slope or "fall" of the deck to provide sufficient rain water drainage. 

Now a strong and sturdy sub-frame is in place, we may now begin affixing the decking boards. The upmost care is taken to insure the correct installation of the boards, ensuring adequate spacing between each board is maintained to allow for the natural expansion and contraction of the timber. We must also take into consideration the appearance and "flow" of the boards to ensure the final product is aesthetically pleasing with strategically placed cuts.

For the finishing stage of a deck build, we secure fascia boards in the same style as the main deck to the open and visible ends. This process seamlessly hides the supporting posts and framework below, yet still allows for natural air flow below the deck to ensure the timber remains dry and rot free.