Tips For A Perfect Patio Deck Plan

Every success of a construction greatly relies in a perfect plan. Having an additional patio deck in your backyard or front yard requires some preparation before building starts. You can opt from a ready-made blueprint or starting your plan from scratch with your own personal and original ideas. Nowadays, people are fond of doing outdoor activities with families and friends. It will be more exciting and interesting if you have the best and most appropriate patio deck for your home. If you have plenty of available space outside your home, then you might consider building a pool or playground. It will really be a fun place for your kids. Being exposed to sunlight and fresh air is a good habit that every family must practice. It will surely be of great help in maintaining your good health condition.

While doing your plan, always select for a theme and concept first. These things will serve as your basis and foundation of ideas as you go along with the plan. Choose a color that matches to your home exterior. It is more pleasing and attractive if everything complements with each other. If you plan to have a more unique and amazing patio, consult the best contractor or architect in town that will help you construct an efficient plan. The installation of patio must be directed to its purpose. It will make the plan easier if you already identified the main reason of building it. The contractor can also prepare ahead of time in making the best and right plan for you if he will have an idea about the purpose of your patio ahead of time. It will also be helpful if you know the direction of sunlight that will hit to your patio as well as the shade.

Building a patio can be done easily through a DIY project. However, if you think that you can't do it all by yourself in your self assessment, it will be great to really seek for assistance from a contractor. Choose a design that is suitable to your preference so that it will be clearly stated in the plan. Select for the materials that you want to use and the color of the patio. If you are having a lot of guests very often, you can consider placing chairs where everybody can be seated. Always check for the availability of space so that you can also set space limitations to your plan. Afterwards, you can start creating ideas in maximizing the place and personalizing the designs. There are different kinds of patio available in the market that can be your reference while making your plan. Consider what furniture you want to put in your patio because furniture usually has bigger space requirements. Never go beyond to your budget. Your plan must coincide with the particular budget that you have allotted. Making your plan extravagant can only turn your patio into a big waste of time, money and effort. Stick to your budget and make a smart plan that is attainable and affordable.

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Creating Your Own Patio Deck Plans

Creating patio deck plans can be an ordeal all in itself. If you don't feel quite ready to tackle such a project then there are plenty of places to find existing plans or software to build your new addition. Before looking into preexisting blueprints it is best to know the function and purpose you are going for. Determine what type of activities you will be hosting on your new outside playground. If you like to entertain often then it is important to allow for plenty of space. If there is a pool or items such as swing sets or trampolines then take this into consideration as to yard space available for construction.

There are multiple places that offer premade patio deck plans for you to choose from.The best and even free premade architectural designs include such items as a full scale design with measurements, detailed material list, pages with step-by-step directions and sometimes an estimated cost analysis. If you were to pay for a professional to help you then you should receive all of the same paperwork including a cost list for your area. If the free versions aren't up to par for you then check out the paid versions. These range from $20-$40 depending upon the difficulty of the plan and the elaborateness of the patio deck plans.

Don't have it in the budget for a specialized, one-of-a-kind set of patio deck plans? That's okay because you can purchase software to help you out. This software can create just your deck or your entire landscaping for the backyard. This allows you to put your imagination to work making the backyard of your dreams. Prices for this software range from $8 to $25 and beyond.

There are numerous types of patio deck plans to choose from when using software or purchasing the premade version. There are lowered or raised, specific pool types, expandable, multi-tiered, spa, straight with a lowered dining area, shaded, garden, multi-level garden and numerous others to choose from. This is where your decision of the overall purpose comes into play. They can also be created in virtually any shape. The most common shapes are square, rectangle and hexagon.

Which patio deck plans you decide to go with are solely up to your preferences and your budget. It all comes down to how much money you have and if you are a bit tech savvy and want to utilize the software to visualize your own creation.

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Different Locations of Patio Decks

Give your house an nice outdoor view where you can stay and have fun with your family and friends. If you have an extra space on your backyard or adjacent to your house, it is best to utilize such space for a patio deck. It is an outdoor space for recreational activities such as family dinner, party, or simple bonding moments. It is usually adjoining the residence of the owner. Some patios are built to view a beautiful garden or a wonderfully landscaped backyard. There are different styles that will perfectly match the design of your backyard or garden. Typical these are located adjacent to the house. This type will allow the owner a wide view of his lawn. It also provides for an easy access from the house to the patio decks. Patio decks located in the middle of the house, like traditional Spanish houses, mostly do not have roofs. They are positioned in the middle of the house with a natural lighting coming directly from the sun. It is usually surrounded by a garden with flowering shrubs that provides for its wonderful view. There are also decks located in the middle of the lawn or garden. This is a stylish oasis-type of decks serves as a shelter in the dessert of beautiful flowers which provides for a best viewing spot of its surroundings. Some patios are even located fronting the house while the garden or landscaped backyard is in between them. This location often have a fashionable pathway or catwalk leading from the house to the patio and vice versa. No matter where you place you patios, always bear in mind that its primary purpose is to provide the family an outdoor venue of their activities. Hence, it must not sacrifice proximity nor let go of the style and convenience of being inside the patio deck.

The locations of the patio decks are also not decided arbitrarily according to one's whims. It must conform and complement with the overall design and concept of the backyard or garden where it will also serve as a viewing deck. This is not simply a mere house extension. It is created to supplement to the style of the outdoor landscape design to provide the owner and his guests a good and safe viewing point. The size must also be considered in deciding where to put up the deck. On this score, the purpose and design of the patio must first be considered. If this deck is for partying, it should not be too small or else the guests will feel uneasy moving and grooving. However, if you decide to make a relatively big patio deck for partying, the total outdoor space and its landscape design must be harmonized.

Hence, patio decks, wherever it is located, must always perform its primordial function as the home-extension and complementary design of the garden or backyard. Although there are patio decks created for the sole purpose of it without considering the outdoor landscape, such patio deck can be the outdoor design itself. Thus, it is very important that it is beautifully designed to still provide your outdoor view a cozy and welcoming features.

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How to Choose the Right Kind of Patio Deck Furniture

When trying to choose patio deck furniture, there are several things that you need to think about before you hand over your credit card. Choosing the right kind of furniture can totally change the ambiance and style of your patio or deck area. Since this is the place you will likely go to have family events and relax, you want to make sure that you have just the right kind of décor to suit your style.

One factor you want to think about when it comes to patio deck furniture is how it will be functional for your space. While you want to use as much of your space as possible, you also do not want overpowering pieces of furniture taking over a small space. At the same time, you don't want furniture that is tiny sitting out in a large open space because that will look uncomfortable.

Speaking of comfort, you want to make sure that the kind of furniture you choose is comfortable for you and your guests. After all, no one wants to sit on the patio or deck for hours on hard metal or wood furniture that isn't comfortable.

Remember not to buy outdoor patio furniture just because of the way it looks. While it is important that you enjoy the look and style of furniture you choose, it is also vital to have functional and comfortable furniture. You might also want to consider the different kinds of materials that you can get furniture made in such as wood and metal. Aluminum is a very popular choice because it is very strong and durable plus it is lightweight and easy to move around.

Plastic patio deck furniture is also a popular choice for those who do not have high budgets to deal with. Another reason is because plastic can be made to look like all kinds of other materials including wood. You can clean it easily and he can stand up to the occasional rough weather elements.

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Useful Patio Deck Designs

A patio deck offers accessible space for informal entertaining and day by day enjoyment of the splendid outdoors. Patios are often constructed either at the back or in front of the home. Effective patio deck designs increase the floor space of your home and add a room where you can entertain friends frequently. People who are fond of entertaining friends might fancy a patio with a private kitchen and dining area. Decks additions are amongst the least complicated and most satisfying home improvement tasks you can carry out.

When commencing a new patio design, it is important to remember that your new outdoor entertaining area does not need to be expensive. There are different patio surfaces that suit every homeowner's specific tastes and budget which include natural clay stones, bricks and concrete paves so you need not stick to one kind of surface. A wooden patio is also another option.

Concrete Patio Designs
The necessity of a luxurious and detached oriented way of life has resulted in fresh and modern concrete patio designs. Concrete patio designs are a necessity owing to the ensuing penchant by the older populace and the recurrence of porches and decks within the layout of every person's homes. Concrete patios are also more economical to make and needs less maintenance than other materials. You could make concrete slabs to look like bricks or stones. There are also finishing that can make your surface look like wood to make the ambiance more resilient. Concrete provides a solid surface that completely prevents weed growth.

Nowadays, you can indulge in fitting your concrete patio with an outdoor kitchen with equipped seating area, fireside and even intricate water features to provide a well-designed outdoor seating arrangement. The flexibility of the concrete patio designs and basic materials add up to the attributes of the home and offer genuine value for the money used. Concrete will crack for a period of time, hence, needs repairing.

Bricks and Natural Stones Patios

It is quite customary for patios to be made out of concrete, but nowadays, flagstone and brick patios happens to be exceedingly prevalent patio designs. They bestow a modernized and fashionable guise that works superbly with brick or stone homes. Bricks and natural stones maybe expensive but they are very durable and can withstand excessive amount of heat and cold in extreme weather conditions. They can be set in sand or gravel based surface. The most recommended way of installing brick or stone paves is to attach them over concrete.  This is permanent type though, but you will have years of beauty with a low maintenance patio.

Wooden Patios
A wooden deck is a valuable home improvement that intensifies the magnificence and worth of your home. A deck designed as a wooden podium, competent of supporting weight, built outside and attached to your house is a good patio design choice. It might be enclosed with wooden handrail for protection depending on its loftiness. Wooden patios however, need regular maintenance and re-staining over time.

Home patios can be arranged in various forms and dimensions and can be revitalized consistently. Out-of-doors entertaining is becoming a popular mounting activity for friends and family, so having it designed to suit your tastes is immensely satisfying.

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Clear the Patio Deck!

A deck can be a warm, inviting place for friends and family. Or it can be a complete eyesore if it's not maintained properly. Before you decide that your deck is useless and unattractive, consider some of these important tips and techniques to refurbishing your deck and revitalizing its life.

Decks are an extension of your home and they offer a comfortable place to enjoy the beauty of the outdoors while entertaining, grilling, or just relaxing. Unfortunately, most all decks are exposed to many kinds of weather including rain, snow, hot sun, and humidity. If not cared for properly, they are prone to become old, dingy, dirty, and weathered - rendering them useless to those who want to enjoy a beautiful outdoor space.

The good thing for homeowners to recognize is that decks usually have more visual problems than structural. This means that some tender loving care and a little elbow grease can make them more beautiful and useful. When the structure is good, the enhanced beauty of wood and furniture make your deck the perfect entertainment spot.

There are four steps to maintaining an inviting appearance to your deck:
1. Clean the deck.
2. Evaluate any discoloration of boards or possible decay that needs repair.
3. Repair any areas needing work.
4. Protect your decking with a durable finishing product (stain or paint).

Cleaning. It's important to thoroughly clean your deck, getting between the boards and cracks to avoid rot, mildew, and debris. You can purchase or rent power washers for this purpose to quickly clean the surface. You may still need to use a knife or slender object to go between the boards. A high powered water hose and nozzle will also help do the trick but use it carefully since the pressure can damage the wood surfaces.

You can purchase commercial powders or liquid concentrates that include cleaners for your deck and help rid the surface of mold and mildew. These culprits can damage the wood surfaces and they are a health hazard if not removed. Always test any product you plan to use before using it on the entire deck. It could discolor or darken wood. For your own safety, be sure to wear rubber gloves and goggles when applying cleaner and power-washing a deck.

After cleaning, inspect the deck to see if there are damaged boards, cracks, or loose nails that need repair. Take care of any of these problems before you proceed to your next step. Make sure steps are secure and handrails are steady.

Once your deck is clean, you can apply a good quality finish to protect it. But be sure to wait for 2-3 days after washing before applying the finish. It's important to allow the wood to completely dry out before applying a sealant of any kind.

Applying finish. If your deck is painted, you obviously need to repaint periodically. If your deck is a natural or colored stained finish, then you can use a clear or stained finish to refresh the wood. If you are using a finish, be sure it is water repellent, offers UV protection for the wood, and if you have problems with mildew, make sure it includes a mildewcide which is found in most wood preservatives.

If this is your first project to improve your deck, you can always check with the experts at your local home and garden store for more tips. Taking care of your deck is not something you do once in a lifetime. It is a process that should be undertaken at least once a year to ensure the beauty and safety of this outdoor structure. You will find that a well-preserved and beautifully maintained deck provides an opportunity for much outdoor fun and activity. It also contributes to the overall beauty and value of your home.

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Five Tips For Patio Deck Planning

It is a good idea for a home improvement. They can raise the value of your property. They care also functional. Here are five things to consider before you begin patio deck construction.

1. Take your lifestyle into account. How often do you entertain out of doors? What type of entertainment do you engage in? Maybe it will be mostly used by you and family. This will have a lot to do with what you will need.

2. Use what you have. Is there already a patio on your property? If so, maybe you can come up with ways to improve it. Perhaps you simply need to add some outdoor features. The same goes for a preexisting deck. You may be able to replace some of the wood. This is far less expensive than an entire new structure. Perhaps most of the old lumber only needs to be refinished.

3. Take your home design into account. How is your property laid out? This may have a lot to do with where you place your new structure. Is it level or hilly? If you have a lot of slope, you may need to allow for this. However, only one area may be level. This may be the least expensive option. If not, you may have to do a great deal of landscaping before you begin construction.

4. Check out the neighbors. Is there anything similar in your neighborhood? This can give you some very good ideas. Go a little farther, if you do not see anything that you like. There may be people a few miles away that are employing the perfect scenario.

5. Check online. Do some online searches. This can bring up a great deal of information. You will get to see ideas from all over the world. This increases your chances for a successful plan. Take your time and look over all of the images that you come across. There has to be some very good ideas that are similar to your needs.

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Patio Decks - 4 Steps to Consider When Building Deck Stairs

Are the stairs for your patio deck suffering from wear and tear, and maybe even becoming dangerous, causing you to stumble and even fall? Maybe you are thinking about replacing your damaged patio deck stairs, but are put off by the cost of hiring a professional carpenter to do it. By doing the work yourself, you can save yourself a lot of money, and it isn't actually as hard as you might think.

All you need to do to build a set of stylish, sturdy stairs yourself is to acquire some basic carpentry skills. This will also mean that you can build stairs to your own design and therefore have them just as you want them, rather than having to follow someone else's ideas. All you have to have is the right plan, some tools and a little guidance.

For any job to be successful, planning is important, and making stairs for your patio deck is no exception to this rule. So have a careful look for the best design for your space, to suit your patio deck and which will be robust. Have a proper plan worked out in your mind, and make up a blueprint for the whole process. This will make the entire building job much easier to carry out. Below is a process you can follow to help you to create this plan.

1) Position:
The first thing to do is to decide exactly where you are going to place your stairs. Think carefully about this, because the location is important. You don't want the stairs to be placed where they are in the way of where people usually walk, so try to find a spot around your patio deck which is not normally used.

2) Step width:
When deciding how wide your steps should be, take into consideration the amount of traffic the stairs will need to carry. If your family is large, then make the steps wide enough for two people to walk side by side on them.

3) Number of steps:
This is a more complicated decision, because your steps need to be evenly spaced. Measure the overall height of the stairs, and work it out mathematically. For example, if the height is 48 inches, then you could have eight steps, with a six inch gap between them.

4) Space between steps:

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Personal Design for Your Patio Deck

The patio deck is a social area of the house and how it is designed can say a million things about you. With the many designs available to choose from, you might be at a standstill in the selection process. Now, if you are an open-minded person, then this concept of personal design for your patio can greatly increase the chances of customizing the area according to your taste. The most common characteristics of the design that many people are looking for is a low maintenance, easy to install, and stylish patio.

Of course, a do-it-yourself patio design may need a little bit more time and effort to make, but this can also save you a whole lot. Basically, the idea here is to make sure that you are up for your own personal design in this social area of the house. Patios are usually placed either at the front or back side of the house. The placement of the patio can also contribute to the type of design you might be interested in.

There are three types of patio decks:

Concrete

The first type is the concrete type. This is the basic type of patio that is durable, low maintenance and easier to do. Concrete is almost like clay which can be textured and molded into whatever pattern you would like to have in your patio. There are slabs that can simply be put together like a big puzzle to create a dazzling pattern. In clean and well-kept gardens, most homeowners usually use concrete to hinder the growth of weeds -- that is, if the patio is next to the garden. For more innovative ideas, you can check the newest designs in home interior magazines, and if you need some of the suppliers, the yellow pages is a good place to start.

Flagstones

Flagstones or other natural rocks and bricks have also been increasingly popular among patio deck designs. That is because of the readily available supplies and easier management of the patio. In this type, you have to be able to fit the stones according to the vision or inspiration that you have in mind without having to end up with an overly structured patio. One good thing about the natural stones or bricks is that they can withstand the extremes of weather. This is a good investment for those who plan to have low maintenance and long-lasting design.

Wood

Of course, do not forget about the wooden patio decks. Not many homes can afford to have a wooden patio as the weather conditions can get in the way. Another thing is that there might be a little bit of uncertainty in the level of how long the structure could last. On the other hand, there are types of sturdy woods that can take on extreme weather, but these are usually more expensive than the conventional ones.

There are so many things that you can do when it comes to the design of your patio. This depends mainly on the material that you are planning to use. So, always be sure of the design you want, plan it, and purchase the necessary materials for building the patio. With your determination and personal touch, your patio deck would likely be the favorite social part of the house.

Tips For A Perfect Patio Deck Plan

Every success of a construction greatly relies in a perfect plan. Having an additional patio deck in your backyard or front yard requires some preparation before building starts. You can opt from a ready-made blueprint or starting your plan from scratch with your own personal and original ideas. Nowadays, people are fond of doing outdoor activities with families and friends. It will be more exciting and interesting if you have the best and most appropriate patio deck for your home. If you have plenty of available space outside your home, then you might consider building a pool or playground. It will really be a fun place for your kids. Being exposed to sunlight and fresh air is a good habit that every family must practice. It will surely be of great help in maintaining your good health condition.

While doing your plan, always select for a theme and concept first. These things will serve as your basis and foundation of ideas as you go along with the plan. Choose a color that matches to your home exterior. It is more pleasing and attractive if everything complements with each other. If you plan to have a more unique and amazing patio, consult the best contractor or architect in town that will help you construct an efficient plan. The installation of patio must be directed to its purpose. It will make the plan easier if you already identified the main reason of building it. The contractor can also prepare ahead of time in making the best and right plan for you if he will have an idea about the purpose of your patio ahead of time. It will also be helpful if you know the direction of sunlight that will hit to your patio as well as the shade.

Building a patio can be done easily through a DIY project. However, if you think that you can't do it all by yourself in your self assessment, it will be great to really seek for assistance from a contractor. Choose a design that is suitable to your preference so that it will be clearly stated in the plan. Select for the materials that you want to use and the color of the patio. If you are having a lot of guests very often, you can consider placing chairs where everybody can be seated. Always check for the availability of space so that you can also set space limitations to your plan. Afterwards, you can start creating ideas in maximizing the place and personalizing the designs. There are different kinds of patio available in the market that can be your reference while making your plan. Consider what furniture you want to put in your patio because furniture usually has bigger space requirements. Never go beyond to your budget. Your plan must coincide with the particular budget that you have allotted. Making your plan extravagant can only turn your patio into a big waste of time, money and effort. Stick to your budget and make a smart plan that is attainable and affordable.

Make Your Patio Deck Designs Connect With Nature

There are many events worth rejoicing in one’s lifetime like birthdays, graduation parties and nuptials. A patio at home will be a plus as it helps conserve time, energy and cash for the party planner or host. There are countless patio deck designs for you to select from. If you want to buy a house with a patio, or build one for your house, take into considerations the materials, sketch, location, facility and atmosphere. Planning warily and perceptively for the patio has a beneficial yield on your part.

A patio is an annex of your home, and when planning on constructing one, it should correspond or at least be visually connected to the blueprint of the house. For ideas, you can always check the internet and home living magazines. If the venture is hard enough for you, or you’re not that certain with your designs and concepts, you should get help from someone who’s had more knowledge in designing patios. Jointly with the designer or architect, you can start searching for the materials, outdoor patio furnishings, plants, flowers, lights, outdoor umbrellas and other adornments according to your preferences.

In choosing the outline, factors like space, land’s fitness for plant life, usual weather in the area and present outlines of pool or grotto that can be utilized or enhanced with favored outline or theme. If the sun can be anticipated all through the year, outdoor umbrellas are convenient and inexpensive as safeguard from heat and rain. For vicinities with less rain, outdoor patio furniture and a playground for kids will be wonderful extensions. A stable and solid manner of protection is commended for humid areas.

When you have chosen your design, choose your decorations and other outdoor patio furnishings. patio decorations are normally connected with nature. Because patio is an area of the house displayed to sunlight, air and environmental pressures, you can construct a garden or greenhouse. The climate is significant to plants and fruit crops that require a lot of sun. So, sunlit locations are suitable. Plants that do not need a lot of sun can be located in areas with less heat. Be sure to do preservation as plants need a lot of care and clean-up.

A huge patio will benefit you and your family if your family is the type that likes to hold celebrations. You can have family get-together, birthdays, baptism and even an assembly. Be vigilant with selecting of outdoor patio furnishings that might pose risks for the children. If you care more about protection then pick wooden furniture instead of those made with glass with pointed edges.

Regardless of the location or climate, the patio should always have a shield to protect you and your family from unexpected weather conditions. A sudden torrent of rain can ruin a well prepared occasion or celebration, but the good news is that you can constantly avoid that with patio covers. Outdoor umbrellas serve perfectly as protection from the warmth of the sun, and as defense from the rain. Movable or easily arranged and detached patio covers are best for those areas experiencing fewer rains. Nevertheless, lasting patio covers are more useful for locations normally affected by ghastly weather conditions. It operates a permanent shelter for you, the patio itself, and the outdoor patio furniture.

A focal point which is exceptional and creates a calm and pleasant atmosphere is a requisite for a patio. Your family and you can enjoy this too. It should be stimulating to the eyes and not create annoyance or any uncomfortable feeling. Several regularly used focal points are fountains, bird baths, grotto and flower gardens. The focal points must suit the design and feel of your patio.

The patio is like a beneficial investment. You should always plan cautiously, assess and consult those who are expert in the field. Don’t make quick resolutions as you will be irritated with the outcome. If you are meticulous, it might take a longer time to complete the patio but you will certainly feel extremely fulfilled.

How To Build A Deck Step By Step The Easy Way

Once you have a solid set of instructions and sound decking plans to work with, building a deck need not be a difficult process, even for an inexperienced carpenter.

The technique I explain in this article is a professional deck installation method which can be used for deck heights between 350mm to 1.8m above ground level.

Inserting timber posts

1. Draw up your deck plan on paper first. (If you are stuck for ideas, there are plenty of resources online that supply deck plans) To be able to properly draw your deck design you will need to work out exactly where to position your posts and your purlin structure and joists.

2. Lay out the perimeter of your deck with string or line. If you are building a square deck , be sure to check diagonal measurements.

3. Mark the positions of your posts using an ink marker or chalk. Your posts should be approximately 1.5 - 1.8m apart.

4. Now dig the holes for your posts going approximately 400mm deep. Insert your posts into the holes, lining them up and bracing them, making sure that the bracing will hold them in place while the concrete sets. The post will be cut later so it doesn't matter how high they extend out of the ground.

5. Ensure your posts are plumb (level in the vertical plane.)

6. Pour some ready made concrete into the holes, filling them to the top.

7. Allow the concrete to set for 48 hours before pulling the timber bracing off and cleaning any concrete off the posts.

Purlin Stage

Purlins are horizontal beams running along the length of your deck to support the decking boards. The purlins are supported along their lengths by posts.

The purlin structure will run the same direction as the finished deck boards, which is normally parallel to the house / patio doors.

Decide what level you want your finished decking to be, then work out your post heights from this - calculate backwards.

Use a self-levelling laser level on a tripod to set levels over a large deck. Ensure any laser-level you use has been calibrated within the last 6 months.

Bolt 6" x 2" planks on their edge to either side of the posts, stagger your joists so that you don't end up with two joints on the same post. (Timber locks can be used instead of bolts as they are just as strong and much faster to use. Pre-drill the 6" x 2" timber first, insert at least two bolts or timber locks.

As an extra reinforcement insert a 4" x 2" dwarf leg between the 6" x 2" and the concrete base and attach it to the post with screws or timber locks. This will ensure that your substructure will last 20 years plus. This will transfer the load to the ground.

Water Run-Off
To create a water run-off you must create a slight slope on your decking. We will aim for a slope of about 1 in a 100. To achieve this we will set our levels using builders line. 50mm in 4.8m will create a 1 in 100 slope.

Dwarf legs can be used to reinforce the purlins. Once the purlins are positioned and bolted / timberlocked the purlin structure is now complete.

Joist Stage

Setting out the joists is now straight forward (ensure that the joists 4" x 2" (or 5 6" x 2") are regularised (that the joists are actually of same dimensions) - this is very important otherwise the deck could be uneven.)

Lay your joists out on top of the purlins at 90° to the purlin structure. The joists must be spaced at 250mm (10") apart. The joists can be fixed to the purlin structure using 80mm stainless steel screws or 3" galvinised nails. This should ensure the strength and durability for your decking to last two decades of use.

Now all that remains to be done is to insert bridging pieces between the joists to strengthen the joist structure. Use 10" (250mm) pieces to do this.

Bridging pieces 250mm (10") should be inserted between the joists to ensure a rigid, strong joist structure.