If you’ve been thinking of building your own deck but you’re not sure where and how to start, check this beginner’s guide for some helpful tips:
1. Know the basics
Before starting any work, it’s important that you know the building blocks of decking. This will take the guesswork out of choosing the right materials for your deck project.
Recycled composite decking makes use of plastic and wood waste products. It’s ideal for beginners because it’s easy to work with, attractive and can be finished in a few days time.
2. Find out about Council permits
Check with your local offices for what permits you need to build your deck. Ask about building codes and pay the council a visit to make sure you know about their rules regarding deck design, colors, type and size.
Recycled composite decking is engineered and tested to meet national and international standards.
3. Check your area
Before you start any digging, make sure you know the location of all buried pipes and cables in your area. You don’t want to cause a major accident by hitting a buried gas pipe by mistake. While you’re at it, get the measurements of the area where you plan to build your deck to find out how much decking materials you’ll need.
4. Shop for materials
Now that you know how much decking materials you need, it’s time to look for a hardware store. If you can’t find a good one in your area, go online. Many companies offer FREE delivery of decking materials with minimum requirements.
Recycled composite decking is more expensive compared to timber decking. But keep in mind that timber requires a lot of prep work before they can be used to build decks whereas composites are ready to install.
5. Shop for Tools
Unlike timber decking, you don’t need a complete toolbox in order to install your recycled composite decking.
6. Check the manufacturer’s guidelines
For best results, read and understand the manufacturer’s installation guidelines BEFORE building your deck.
7. Better safe than sorry
It’s your responsibility to make sure you follow safety procedures in installing your recycled composite decking. Wear the right kind of clothes when working and make sure you don’t leave your kids alone in your workplace, even for a second.
For more information about recycled composite decking, check Futurewood’s website.
