The framework should be constructed on a series of small piers or foundations, roughly 1m apart.

These raise the framework above ground level, and provide a solid foundation for your deck. (See fig.3)

Paving slabs, concrete blocks and even wet concrete all provide a suitable footing for your deck.

The joist framework rests on these piers

N.B. As with laying patios, it is important that your deck has a slight fall to shed any surface water. This is especially relevant when the deck is against any external walls, and when using routed deckboard, as water tends to collect in the grooves.

A FALL OF 1:100 AWAY FROM THE HOUSE IS SUFFICIENT.

Once you have installed your piers it is a good idea to lay some landscape fabric or a mulch over the area to prevent weeds growing through the decking.

Use screws as opposed to nails to secure the framework together.

Using screws allows you to easily correct any mistakes that you make while at the same time providing a more secure joint.

Once the framework is completed begin laying the deckboards.

If you are unsure about this stage, set the deckboards out without attaching them to the joists.

This might save a few headaches in the future. Ensuring that the deckboards are at right angles to the joists, begin screwing the boards to the joists.

To make things easier, pre-drill the screw holes.

Depending on the length of your decking area, you may find that you have to cut any excess board when you come to the end of your deck.

If this excess is longer than 0.5m it can be used to begin a new row of decking boards.

Using this method you automatically stagger the joints

Ensuring that there is a 5mm gap, begin to lay the second row of deckboards.

As with brickwork ensure that you stagger the joints of the deckboards.

Not only does this give a more aesthetically pleasing finish, it also improves the strength of the overall deck.

Continue in this fashion until you have completed your decking.

TOP TIP: USE 5MM PIECES OF TIMBER/PLASTIC AS WEDGES TO ENSURE THAT THE GAPS BETWEEN BOARDS ARE EQUAL. (See fig.5)