Your decking should be placed on a framework of joists roughly 0.4m apart.

Decking timber such as Forest Premium Deckboard is suitable for joists or alternatively use treated 150mm x 50mm timber available from most timber merchants.

When planning the layout of your joist framework it is important that you take into consideration the direction you lay your deckboards.

Always ensure that the joists are running at right angles to the finished deckboards Plot the framework on your drawing. (See fig.3)

Once you are happy with the shape and layout of the joist framework, calculate the amount of decking needed.

Remember to allow an expansion joint of approximately 5mm between decking timbers.

If you find it easier, plot the decking boards on your plan.

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