Dear Deckers......

[ucsman]

Daft question this one, but can't seem to find a conclusive answer.
I am nearing completion of a deck - 7mx3m and have 4.8m 14.4cm boards.
In terms of screwing the boards down into the frame, is it best just to put couple of 2.5 inch screws into the ends and middle of the board when fixing, or regularly across the length - your views / experiences welcome.

 

[Scoby_Beasley]

Regular screwing ( ) I find is best. It also helps with the decking.

 

[masona]

Approximately 25mm from each edge will be okay and no need to put screw in the middle.

 

[ucsman]

Regular screwing ( ) I find is best. It also helps with the decking.

Fell straight into that one
Read in a guide that the screws need to go into every support the plank passes over - seems a bit excessive to me - especially with @ 16 supports. Think that I will try the ends and see if there is any bounce before going overboard with the screws.

Thanks guys

 

[masona]

Fell straight into that one
Read in a guide that the screws need to go into every support the plank passes over - seems a bit excessive to me - especially with @ 16 supports.

How far apart are the supports?

 

[ucsman]

I constructed this deck on concrete block 'stilts' to clear uneven ground. Built in 3* 2.4m square sections to form frames, and then added support every 35cm (very stable now with noggins). Also bolted together also with stainless bolts.

All levelled now - ready for posts, handrails & wiring (for LED markers) before boards go on.

Only casualty to date is my sunburn!!

 

[dabaldie]

2 screws at every joist that you cross.
Otherwise the boards will lift in time as they naturally warp with the wetting and drying.
ahh the joys of decking... nearly finished my 8mx10 deck.
try the TRADA Decking guide for more info.