Decking a surface involves the process of installing deck boards onto a prepared frame to create the walking surface. Based on the provided reference, boarding a deck follows a specific sequence of steps to ensure proper installation and alignment.
How to Board a Deck: Step-by-Step Installation
Boarding a deck effectively means laying down and securing the deck boards. This requires careful planning and execution, starting with preparation and ending with final touches.
Here are the essential steps for boarding a deck, according to the reference:
Preparing for Boarding
- Step 1: Measure Your Deck
- Begin by accurately measuring the area of your deck frame. This measurement is crucial for determining the quantity of deck boards needed and planning the layout. Knowing the exact dimensions helps minimize waste and ensures you purchase the correct amount of material.
- Step 2: Choose Boards and Fasteners
- Select the type of deck boards you will use (e.g., wood, composite, PVC) and the appropriate fasteners. Fasteners can include screws, nails, or hidden fastening systems. The choice often depends on the board material, desired aesthetic, and durability requirements. Ensure the fasteners are suitable for exterior use and the chosen material.
Laying Out the Boards
- Step 3: Mark the First Board's Position
- Determine where the first board will be placed. This is often along a prominent edge, square to the house or a defining line. Mark this position clearly on the deck frame. Proper placement of the first board sets the tone for the entire deck surface.
- Step 4: Allow Spacing for the Next Rows
- As you lay boards, it's essential to leave appropriate spacing between them. This spacing is critical for drainage and ventilation, and it also allows for the natural expansion and contraction of the deck material due to temperature and moisture changes. Use spacers or a consistent measurement tool to maintain uniform gaps between boards.
Addressing Obstructions and Finishing
- Step 5: Lay Out Notch Around Posts
- When you encounter obstacles like deck posts or railings that penetrate the deck surface, you will need to cut notches in the deck boards to fit around them. Carefully measure and mark the required notch shape on the board before cutting to ensure a snug fit.
- Step 6: Put In the Last Board
- Installing the final board can sometimes be tricky, especially if the remaining space is not exactly the width of a full board. You may need to rip (cut lengthwise) the last board to fit the remaining gap.
- Step 7: Trim Deck Boards
- Once all boards are laid and fastened, you will likely have boards extending beyond the edge of the deck frame. The final step is to trim these excess ends to create a clean, straight edge around the perimeter of the deck. This is typically done with a circular saw guided by a straight edge.
Following these steps systematically allows you to successfully install the deck boards and complete the deck's surface.
