How To Build A Raised Timber Decking Area

Building a raised decking area is not necessarily a straight forward job. One needs to asses the site, the ground levels, access for materials and machines, etc. But most of all is understanding what the final outcome should be and the what the end result should look like.

All too often we see areas of decking that have been neatly screwed down to the subframe but the results could be so much better, the finish height could have been worked far more accurately, the jointed boards could have been cut square, mitres on a 90 degree return wander, etc.

In summer of 2020 we were contacted by a new client hoping that we would be able to remove an existing shed prior to the erection of a beautiful new log cabin. We completed this little job and then went on to tile their kitchen and utility room too!

With several small jobs completed and a fabulous working relationship established we were invited to submit a design and quote for the construction of a raised deck area around the new building.

The completed raised deck project.

We only use the highest quality materials and sourced graded C24 timber to build the framework. C24 is a premium softwood product imported from countries where the climate encourages the trees to grow more slowly, it is therefore stronger and has increased load-bearing capacities. With the COVID-19 pandemic some materials were difficult to source, some of the leading suppliers had run out of essentials – such as 65mm decking screws, 90mm x 50mm joist hangers, 100mm stainless steel screws, etc. We really had to shop around to get all we needed. We even ordered the very last of the wooden decking available from our suppliers which was delivered to site on two flatbed truck loads!

We set out using corner profiles, a large builder's square, framing levels and string lines - a little "old fashioned" but exceptionally accurate and a trustworthy method with skill hands and a keen eye. Once we had "set out" the area we excavated postholes for the 100mm x 100mm uprights which were concreted in place.

Setting out for the decking framework

We removed the turf and laid a thick weed proof membrane covered with a generous layer of 10mm shingle to suppress plant growth and provide added drainage from water runoff.

Building the C24 timber framework

Our design included ensuring the new deck finish height married up to the existing slabbed patio, had an equal inset step down to the lawn and could incorporate a series of flush finished low voltage lights. The lights can even be turned on and off with a smart phone app or voice via Alexa indoors!

"Alexa - Turn decking lights on!"

Here is a short video we made from some of the live footage and pictures we took during the construction process.

We completed the project with the addition of a set of temporary stairs to the lower lawn and we were delighted with the end result, so were our clients Simon and Karen and this is what they said:

“Superb workmanship and real attention to detail - Phil and Anna ensured the entire project blended in with the new cabin and create a new living space. He is a rare kind - someone who takes real time to understand the needs and then designs and delivers to those needs always meeting, and often exceeding expectations. I can't speak more highly of them and their work and fully endorse them!!” Simon J., Ashford, Kent, 2021

Complete raised decking

If you would like us to design and build a raised deck or any other structure please do get in touch via our Page Contact.

Thanks for taking the time to read this blog post.

Best regards,

Phil and Anna.