A decking area is perfect for dinner parties, lounge areas, and outhouses. Composite decking is not only cost-effective, but it’s also highly durable and aesthetically pleasing.

Whether you’re a DIY enthusiast or a novice, stick with us as we guide you through each step of installing composite decking. We’ll help you achieve a seamless finish!

What is Composite Decking?

Composite decking is a modern and popular alternative to traditional wood decking.

This is made from a blend of plastic and wood fibres, resulting in a unique composition that is low maintenance, durable, and attractive.

The Benefits of Composite Decking

It doesn’t require regular sealing, staining, or painting.
It’s highly resistant to warping and rot.
It’s made from recyclable materials, including reclaimed wood and recycled plastic.
It has a non-slip surface, making it ideal for homes with small children and pets.
It’s available in a wide range of colours and finishes.

Planning Your Decking Project

Proper planning is essential for a successful and stress-free installation. If you’re simply replacing old decking, then you don’t have to worry about this.

But if you’re building a brand new deck, you might want to consider the following:

Consider the shape and design that will best fit your outdoor space and whether you prefer a typical rectangular deck or a multi-level or curved design.
Determine what material and finish would look best in your garden.
Stick to a clear budget to help you avoid any unexpected costs.

Tools and Materials

Measuring tape
Spirit level
Power drill and drill bits
Circular or mitre saw
Jigsaw
Spade/shovel
Rubber mallet
Composite decking and fascia boards
Decking joists and clips
Concrete pads or footing
Decking screws or fasteners
Post anchors
Gravel and weed barrier fabric

A Step-by-Step Guide to Laying Composite Decking

1. Preparing the Area

Clear the area by removing any weeds, vegetation, and debris with a spade and rake.

If the ground is uneven, excavate the area to create a level surface. Mark the perimeter of your deck with stakes, and dig within this area to a consistent depth, ensuring the ground is level.

If your garden has a natural slope, determine whether you want to incorporate this or level the ground. If levelling, create retaining walls or steps to manage the difference in height.

2. Laying the Foundation

A stable foundation ensures the longevity of your deck.

Choose which type of foundation is best for your installation:

Concrete pads: This is ideal for larger decks or uneven ground. For this, dig holes for the concrete pads at regular intervals, making sure they are deep enough to prevent movement. Pour the concrete and let it set completely before proceeding.
Gravel base: Commonly used for ground-level decks, start by spreading a layer of landscape fabric to prevent weed growth, then add a layer of gravel. Compact the gravel to provide a hard, flat base.
Timber subframe: This method is ideal for raised decks. Install pressure-treated wood posts, making sure they are firmly planted in the ground or concrete footings at regular intervals. The subframe needs to be level and robust for a strong support system.

3. Installing the Decking Frame

To install the decking frame, start by constructing the outer frame with your joists. Cut them to the desired length, ensuring they're even.

Then, secure the corners with galvanised screws to form a rectangle or square shape. Install support posts to give your raised deck the required height and solidity. Insert the posts at regular intervals of 1.8 to 2.4 metres and fasten them into the concrete footings.

Install the inner joists into the outer frame, spacing them around 30 to 40 cm apart. Secure the joists to the outer frame and ledge board using joist hangers.

4. Laying the Composite Decking Boards

Once your subframe is secured in place, you can start laying the composite decking boards.

Firstly, use a circular saw or mitre saw to measure and cut the boards to the desired length. A fine-toothed blade is ideal for composite materials.

Allow the decking to acclimate outside for 24 hours before installing. This will reduce the risk of expansion or contraction. Then, decide whether you’ll follow a straight or staggered pattern, depending on your preferences.

Start by laying the first board at one end of the deck, ensuring it’s aligned with the outer edge of the frame and perpendicular to the joists. Use spacers for consistent gaps between each board.

If you’re using hidden clips, secure them along the edge of the frame where the first board will be placed. Slide the board into the clips, securing them in place. Continue to lay the boards and secure them with hidden clips, making sure each one is tightly placed against the previous one.

For screws, pre-drill holes to prevent splitting, and then drive the screws through the boards into the joists. Use two screws per joist for a secure deck.

5. Finishing Touches

Once all the boards have been placed down, add fascia boards around the deck's edges to conceal the ends of the decking board and the subframe.

Measure and cut them to the required length, then secure them in place with screws. This will create a sleek, professional appearance.

If you want to add skirting, measure the height of the decking surface to the ground and cut the skirting panels to size. Secure them in place using screws or clips. Leave small gaps between the panels for adequate ventilation.

Choose Beesley and Fildes for Your Composite Decking

At Beesley and Fildes, we understand how important a sturdy and beautiful decking area is for the appearance and functionality of your garden.

That’s why we sell high-quality composite decking for every home. Our decking is designed to be robust, visually appealing, and long-lasting, lasting many years to come.

With a wide range of colours, textures, and finishes to choose from, there’s something for every customer.