Home / Outdoor & landscaping / Small Deck

How to build a small deck

Finished size: 3 m × 2.4 m, ground-level.

DifficultyAdvanced
Time2–3 days
Cost£400–£800
Size3 m × 2.4 m

Steps

  1. Clear, level and lay membrane with gravel over it.
  2. Set pedestals or pads on a 1 m grid and build the joist frame.
  3. Tape joist tops, then lay boards with 5 mm gaps, staggering joints.
  4. Frame the edge with a fascia board.
Tip: A ground-level deck under 300 mm high is normally permitted development in England; raised decks usually need planning permission.

Materials

  • Treated 150×47 mm joists at 400 mm centres
  • Deck boards, 125 mm, about 7.5 m² plus 10%
  • Adjustable deck pedestals or concrete pads
  • Weed membrane, joist tape, deck screws

Tools

  • Mitre saw
  • Impact driver
  • Level and string line
  • Spacers

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