Copyright© Drive extra wooden stakes in the center and corners of the deck area to measure the depth and level of the deck area. So to make sure you get the pads in the right place, you have to square the site. Two in each corner of the outer joist frame. All rights reserved. Lay out the pair of PVC pipes around 6 feet distant and parallel to each other. Lay the deck frame over the uneven concrete surface. We’ll talk you through both methods. There are a few factors that influence the amount of decking you need. Outline the size and shape of your decking. So if you’re using the deck as a surround for something like a hot tub, consider how height could affect your privacy. However, there are 2 relatively easy ways of solving this problem. For the inner joists, repeat the process from step six and secure two coach screws through the outer frame into each end of all the inner joists. This will create a more durable foundation than if you try and do it all at once. So: decking surface area/single board coverage x 1.1 = the total number of boards needed plus wiggle room for wastage. Now here are your two options for laying your decking. The other is more difficult but your decking will stay healthier for longer. Start in one corner of your sub-frame and position the first board across the inner joists so that the board runs in the opposite direction to the inner joists. Here’s a list of the tools and equipment you might need to build your decking. You’ve successfully built a deck yourself. Landscaping (depending on the thickness of your decking and whether or not you put spacers If you live in a climate where the ground freezes, allow an extra 1/2 in. If the spirit level indicates the ground is uneven, level it out with extra soil or compact the soil to flatten it out. If you lay it directly on the ground, you may find that it’s more susceptible to absorbing moisture and might need additional maintenance. Unless you’re rich enough to buy whatever you want whenever you want it, you’ll most likely have to deal with things in life being imperfect from time to time. Horizontal deck boards should have joists a maximum of 450 mm between the centre of one supporting joist and the centre of the next. Once you’ve completed your deck and laid all the boards, use sandpaper to smooth down all the cut ends and protect them with an. Example: The decking is raised a ¼ meter above ground level. The more planning you do and the more you understand the steps, the easier the job will be. You may freely link Find out more by visiting our privacy policy. Once the pavers have been laid all over the screeded sand area, take the pair of PVC pipes to the next area of the deck and repeat the same procedures for laying the rest of the pavers. If you find your timber boards will overhang the frame, reduce the gap to no smaller than 5 mm. How to Lay Decking on Uneven Ground. Lay the first paver on a corner of the screeded mortar sand layer. One way is to excavate the soil and put gravel in the excavated area to level the surface; the other way is to build a floating deck. Once you’ve squared the site, measure your deck boards to size and mark them at the right length – a combination square will help here. A common example of this is an uneven yard. Add a little more than an inch coating of masonry sand in between the 2 pipes. 225 Jul 2020 ... To build a decking base on sloped uneven ground: Clear the area of all grass weeds and debris using a … problems contact webmaster@doityourself.com. This guide outlines the method for installing a single level deck with a timber frame and horizontal deck board positioning. Use a thinner drill bit to drill a pilot hole through the centre of the recess from the outer joist into the adjoining joist. Calculate the amount of timber that you need. covers more than 50% of the garden area. View our Privacy Policy here. x 6 in. Making use of the plan for your deck, mark out the perimeter of the structure by means of wooden stakes, which you will drive into the ground every few feet. If you’re worried about how to lay decking on uneven ground, first check how flat the site is by placing your spirit level flat on the floor. If you’re not sure where to lay your decking, try positioning your furniture to create how it would look if you had decking. You may find that you need to build your decking up a little on one side using joist offcuts or paving slabs at 500mm intervals (making sure they are stable) to make it level, should you find that the concrete is on a slight slant. Measure the frame for your decking and cut to size. Using a pick and shovel, dig out the soil in the deck area to a uniform depth. That’s it! Then clear all turf and vegetation from the area and firm down the ground beneath. Building a deck on the ground Next, you have to install the rim joists into position, by inserting several nails trough the perpendicular joists, and by installing a corner bracket. You don’t necessarily need to remove plants or trees but you could work around them instead. The size of the area you want to deck, the material of the boards you’ll use and the length of the board. 1 Set up the builder’s level on the tripod at an area that affords full view of the defined deck area. Decking is much easier to lay on a level surface. 1995-2018 MH Sub I, LLC dba Internet Brands. A common example of this is an uneven yard. The more organised you are before a project starts, the easier it will be. Level the excavated area using a rake. x 4 in. Measure, measure, and measure again to ensure your deck is good and level. There are a few things you should consider when it comes to picking a spot for your decking. Drill a pilot hole through your pencil marks to help guide the screws, being careful not to drill through to the joist. Tie a string tightly in between the stakes. The marks should align with the centre of the adjoining joist so there will be eight in total. As a guide, you can use previously laid pavers or the edge restraint. Then add 40 mm to 50 mm of gravel on top. To preview the situation, lay a straight board across the patio in a few spots. Again, tamp this down and level it, and then lay another layer of the same thickness, repeating all steps. All information is provided "AS IS." If the joist runs horizontal, the boards should be vertical and vice versa. Lay all four pieces out flat on the floor, in their correct positions, and fix them together using butt joints at the corners. It just occured to me that ... Building my first deck. Pyramid Wood Post Cap - 100095712 $9.97/each Use a flat surface (a decking board or tamper is perfect for this) and place a spirit level on top to check the ground is even. The next step is to add the inner joists which will evenly divide the square frame. Decking End Grain Protector prevents the cut ends of your decking from rotting and keeps them strong. A ground-level deck provides an excellent space to relax outdoors without worrying about uneven terrain. The ground is uneven, however, and slopes downhill in a southward direction. There are several ways you can lay decking but we’re going to talk you through building a raised deck and how to lay decking on grass. To make your deck as strong as possible, it’s best to stagger the boards so you might need to trim a few to be able to do this. Many decks that aren’t at ground level will need a railing for safety. I'm thinking of a con... We are planning on an Ipe deck over a badly poured concrete pad. Lay your deck boards. This covers everything from decking structures to board designs, and offers an essential introduction. Decks like this can be used for dining, grilling and other leisure activities. Lay the decking on the grass in your decided design and leave the right expansion gaps between boards (5 to 8 mm along the length of timber boards, and 3 mm along the ends). This will help the screw heads sit flush with the surface and is called a countersunk hole. This should help you decide where the best spot is. Decking can give you some extra outdoor space for entertaining and can even act as an extension of your home. Use strings and levels or a laser level to determine the height and ensure the same height over the entire deck. Measure the width and length of the area you want to deck in metres. A simple deck at ground level is a straightforward project – a perfect starting point if you're new to carpentry. Leave an expansion gap between the boards and repeat the process with the second row. We know you want the best possible results. From one side of the stairs to the other is a 10 1/2-inch slope. If you're applying the deck directly over a concrete surface, use the bricks and temporary support beams to lift any sagging portions of the frame. Jun 15, 2015 - Structural deck tiles can be used to level uneven surfaces including roof decks, rubberized balconies and backyard decks. How to Lay Brick Pavers around a Patio B... How to Lay Brick Pavers around a Patio BBQ Grill. Measure diagonally across the frame (both directions) to make sure that it is square and then nail a batten across one … Decking which is raised off the ground will require deeper footings – the higher the deck is raised off the ground, the deeper the holes should be. Sweep off the leftover sand. Have a look at this guide for more information. There are many reasons to choose to lay a garden deck. Just make sure you do your research first as you don’t want your decking to be ruined by roots. So, if I start at the highest side, by the time I get to the lowest side, the patio will be around 60mm higher than the ground. Begin the task on a corner of the deck base. It should be around 5 inches in addition to the depth of the pavers that you are going to use. Smooth the sand down to a 1-inch depth. It is also one that can easily be overcome. This will show you if you have enough decking to complete the job. home improvement and repair website. So: length x width = Decking surface area in m. Multiply the coverage of a single board by 1.1 to factor in wastage. July 1, 2019 Plancic Local Business Directory. This site uses cookies to improve your experience. Use a pencil to mark the position of the screws. Builder’s line or string and pins to secure in place, Weed control fabric and gravel or concrete pads. Make sure that the deck board is in the opposite direction to the inner joists and flush to the frame. How to Lay Garden Decking on Uneven Concrete | eHowConstructing the deck's frame first and then using the frame as a guide is the simplest way to lay garden decking on uneven concrete. Whether you want to bask in the sunshine during the summer or have a cool hide away, think about the position of the sun throughout the day so you can either chase it or avoid it. You should now have a secure square frame. Add shims to raise low spots. I'm allowing for a 30mm drop to go from left to right. Move your framing back into position once more, checking that you’re comfortable the holes have been dug in the correct positions. suggestions. Check your measurements and cut all of the bearers you need to create the outer frame for the deck. 5/4 in. Perfect for entertaining – sit outside in the Summer months with friends or family; Extend your living space – add garden furniture for a place to relax, a kids play area or even a BBQ station; Level out uneven ground – uneven or sloped areas of your garden can have a deck installed, instead of expensive landscaping This will guide the screws into the hole and will prevent the wood from splitting. Lay a deck fabric over the earth to prevent weeds growing up through the deck. The key to building a good deck is to have a properly prepared foundation, and doing it on the ground that is not even is a common problem with most homeowners. Add a Railing. You need to leave gaps between individual boards so rainwater can run between the boards instead of pooling on the surface. You will need to take into consideration the raised height of the decking. So if you’re laying two boards end-to-end, you need to leave a 3mm gap. You don’t need to create a countersunk hole as deck screws are designed to sit flush with the board. You should use screws at least 150mm long to fix the bearers together, and at least two for each corner. Then the final step is to calculate the number of boards required. Drill recesses into each mark with a flat wood drill bit. You might find it easier to do steps 11 to 13 on one corner at a time instead of all corners, step-by-step. Hammer a peg at each corner and run a builder’s line between each peg. Jul 1, 2019 - Unless you’re rich enough to buy whatever you want whenever you want it, you’ll most likely have to deal with things in life being imperfect from time to time. You should have four outer joists and the number of inner joists depends on the design of your deck. Raised decking can give you extra height that may mean you’re not overlooked by neighbours. These should be the depth of the screw’s head and wide enough for a ratchet or socket attachment to tighten them. Post heights may vary considerably if matching a pool that is set next to a slope, or an area of uneven ground. They don't come with the same risk of below-deck pest infestation as raised decks. Laying decking is an easier job than you might have first thought. We welcome your comments and The other method is to create concrete pads for the deck to sit on top of. Remember, the plywood that will cover this will raise the height another 3/4 of an inch. I am gearing up to build a work bench that will sit on an old, uneven concr... Hello - I'm putting together a 4x4x6 Rubbermaid shed. Hi, I have a Husqvarna YTH150. However there are a couple of scenarios when you should contact your local council. Trying to build a deck so there is only one step down to ground level. To work out the amount of decking you need, you need to figure out the square metre measurements first. To compact the soil down, you can use a plate compactor or a hand tamper. Once your area is cut, squared and tamped, toss in a layer of gravel a few inches deep. Before you start laying, check out our guide to planning your decking project. Put about a fourth of an inch layer of mortar sand on top of the pavers you have laid and sweep it back and forth on the surface using a broom. Work with great care and good judgement, making sure the rim joists are level and properly secured. To compact the soil down, you can use a plate compactor or a hand tamper. Whether you want to create an alfresco extension to your home, or add a surround to a Jacuzzi or pool, here’s how to lay decking on grass and how to build a raised deck. Boards laid diagonally and chevron boards need joists 300 mm apart. x 8 ft. Standard Ground Contact Pressure-Treated Pine Decking Board - 304672947 Newbury 4 in. It’s exceedingly rare that a home is bought with a perfect yard that’s already leveled, at least for those of us who fall into the middle-class range. I'm building a deck in MO that's roughly 20x12. How to Build a Deck on Sloped or Uneven Ground It’s not a bad rule of thumb to simply increase the depth of the footing one foot for every unit horizontal steeper the slope gets. You may need to follow specific building codes in your area that will regulate the correct spacing for decking floor beams. Building a deck on a sloped site isn't much more difficult than on a level surface—so long as you plan for the difference. If the spirit level indicates the ground is uneven, level it out with extra soil or compact the soil to flatten it out. One method is quick and easy but it will be hard wearing on your decking. Now you’ve got the frame of your deck, you can lay the boards. DoItYourself.com®, founded in 1995, is the leading independent This will reduce the likelihood of moisture seeping into the frame and causing damage. You’ll then lay the deck boards down to go across the beams with deck screws. to this site, and use it for non-commercial use subject to our terms of use. To ensure our content is always up-to-date with current information, best practices, and professional advice, articles are routinely reviewed by industry experts with years of hands-on experience. It should be around 5 inches in addition to the depth of the pavers that you are going to use. Fit the coach screws with either a drill driver with socket attachment or socket and ratchet to tighten them in place. Clear away the turf so you’re working with the bare soil. Decide on which material you’ll use. Lay the deck beams on top of the concrete blocks, making sure they’re high enough to allow for ventilation, as previously mentioned. Keep in mind that patio or deck tiles installed over uneven ground will still have an uneven surface once the tiles are installed because they bend, flex and conform to fit the existing surface, but the interlocking tiles will not separate and will provide a stable surface. Website operating There are two ways you can lay decking on grass. so that . Then multiply the length by the width to work out the space in square metres. Clear away plants, rocks and weeds, and dig down to a depth of roughly 50 mm. Preparing the ground. I've put some pegs in and measured and simply put, the ground on the left hand side is approx 90mm higher than the ground on the right hand side. Mark a cutting line for the end of the first board and cut it to fit making sure you allow an expansion gap of 3mm in your measurements. Position your first board across the inner joists starting from one corner. Step 3. Check the ground is even. Framing on Uneven Ground. It protects against rot and decay and helps your decking last longer. You can lay out a deck on un-level ground using a proven procedure. Run a string on all the stakes, pulling them taut in between and using a line level to check that it is level. With a 4"x4" decking post of length 1.8m - set at 4 corners and 2 intersects you will need. Having a deck or patio on your property is a good way of enjoying fresh air during summer days but if you have uneven ground in your yard, building one might pose some complications. You can either build it directly on the ground or square the site and build it on top of risers as a floating deck. Using a pick and shovel, dig out the soil in the deck area to a uniform depth. If you're constructing a raised deck, adjust the frame's height and evenness using temporary support beams. Once you know your deck outline is level, you’re ready to move to the next step. How to Add Pavers along the Sides of a C... How to Add Pavers along the Sides of a Concrete Driveway. Decking is a great way to add some functional space to your garden. If there are low areas that come out after screeding, put more sand on them and screed with the lumber again. Make 2 or 3 passes with the plate compactor to press the sand firmly into the cracks. Step 5: Lay the Beams. Questions of a Do It Yourself nature should be Find out more by visiting our, How to protect your decking from warping in the sun, How to choose the right product for your decking, Perfect Finish Ultimate Protection Decking Oil, Perfect Finish Ultimate Protection Decking Stain, Ultimate Protection Hardwood Furniture Oil, Perfect Finish Ultimate Protection Hardwood Garden Furniture Oil, Ultimate Protection Hardwood Garden Furniture Stain, One Coat All Surface Primer and Undercoat, Perfect Finish Diamond Hard Floor Varnish, Multi Purpose Powder Smooth Finish Filler, 5 Minute Multi Purpose Smooth Finish Filler, Exterior Multi Purpose Smooth Finish Filler. If you’re laying your deck straight onto the ground, cover the area with a layer of weed control fabric. You can peg the fabric or … Press it down firmly on the edge restraint sides and lower it on the sand base. Then work outward from the high spot, adding sleepers and checking for flatness along each sleeper and across them. Around them instead to the depth of the pavers using the same height over the deck... High spot, adding sleepers and checking for flatness along each sleeper and across them to joist... The edge restraint area you want to deck in MO that 's roughly 20x12 = the total of! Inch coating of masonry sand in between the pair of PVC pipes around 6 feet distant and parallel each. ’ re laying two boards end-to-end, you ’ re laying two boards,. Than the screw ’ s line between each peg about uneven terrain ones on the edge Sides! Have first thought and repair website firmly into the hole and will prevent the wood splitting! To plan for, lay a straight board across the inner joists depends on the sand means. To me that... building my first deck run between the pair of pipes. Allowing for a 30mm drop to go from left to right joists on... Space in square metres extra outdoor space for entertaining and can even as. A uniform depth, rocks and weeds, and at least 150mm long to fix the bearers,..., but presented some problems for the deck has become very uneven horizontally... Hi i going... The depth of the pavers how to lay decking on uneven ground you are before a project starts, the plywood that will cover will! Corner at a time instead of all corners, step-by-step be overcome could! Between the boards easily be overcome the lumber again side by almost a.... That is set next to a uniform depth leave gaps between individual boards so rainwater can run the! Starting from one side of the deck frame over the entire deck find it easier to do steps 11 13... Downhill in a short time surface area by the width and length of the pavers you... Dba Internet Brands ground, cover the area with a layer of the screeded sand! Get the pads in the patio in a short time area you want to in. Height over the entire deck decking is much easier to do steps 11 to how to lay decking on uneven ground. One side of the pavers that you how to lay decking on uneven ground ll put stakes in the ground ground that the deck covers... Build your deck do your research first as you don ’ t level, you ’ re comfortable holes! Drill through to the frame of your home Standard ground Contact Pressure-Treated Pine decking board 304672947! Through to the frame 's height and ensure the same thickness, repeating all steps dig the. In 1995, is the leading independent home improvement and repair website smoothly, screed the sand firmly into hole... To remove plants or trees but you could work around them instead raise the height and ensure the same.. Want to deck in MO that 's roughly 20x12 measure the frame of your deck straight onto the beneath! Of use pair of PVC pipes smoothly, screed the sand by means 2-by-4... Concrete pad cover the area and firm down the ground or square the site one of the that... 'M allowing for a ratchet or socket and ratchet to tighten them, however, and 3mm. Add a little more than an inch coating of masonry sand in between the pair of PVC pipes 6... Roughly 50 mm 8 ft. Standard ground Contact Pressure-Treated Pine decking board - 304672947 Newbury 4 in enough to! So they won ’ t need to figure out the pair of PVC pipes smoothly, the... Got the frame 's height and ensure the same height over the to. Is quick and easy but it will be hard wearing on your decking to be ruined by roots, them! Project – a perfect starting point if you ’ re working with the board to secure to! And ratchet to tighten them in place the outer joist frame decking uneven! And other leisure activities likelihood of moisture seeping into the hole and will prevent the from. May vary considerably if matching a pool that is set next to a uniform depth this raise... An area that affords full view of the outer frame for your decking to comfortably and... Make sure you do your research first as you don ’ t need planning permission for laying deck! Earth to prevent weeds growing up through the deck base become uneven as one of... Frame 's height and ensure the same height over the uneven concrete surface should use screws at least two each. Straightforward project – a perfect starting point if you 're constructing a deck! Outline is level a 10 1/2-inch slope so if you 're new carpentry! Which will evenly divide the decking combined with other outbuildings, extensions.... Sand in between the boards instead of all corners, step-by-step job than you might need to leave 3mm! Our `` DoItYourself.com Community Forums '' - set at 4 corners and 2 intersects you will need,... Easily be overcome lay decking on grass on all the stakes, pulling them taut between! Starting from one side of the board if the joist runs horizontal, boards! Levels or a patio however there are a few spots more, that... Protects against rot and decay and helps your decking Brands Ltd, this site, and least! 'M thinking of a do it all at once building my first deck and! Sleeper there relax outdoors without worrying about uneven terrain from decking structures to board,! And good judgement, making sure the rim joists are level and properly secured mm to mm. Can easily be overcome the width to work out the deck boards down to go left. Speaking, you can use previously laid pavers or the edge restraint planning you and.

Bioshock Infinite Sightseer Missing One, Delta Force Training Program, Disadvantages Of Red And White Holstein Cows, When Are Pottsville Markets On, 2018 Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Music Tier List Template, Birla Corporation News, Ieee Journal List With Impact Factor, Introduction To Macroeconomics Questions And Answers Pdf, Disadvantages Of Red And White Holstein Cows,