How Do You Prepare The Ground For Decking
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- Posted date:
- 22-05-2024
Mark Out The Decking Beforehand With Pegs & String
Before starting your decking project, it's essential to mark out the area. Begin by driving pegs into the ground at each corner of the proposed decking space. These pegs will help you create a clear and accurate outline. Next, use string to connect the pegs and form a defined perimeter. Ensure you measure the dimensions with precision. Double-check to confirm that the corners are square and the lines are straight.
This step offers a visual reference for the entire project and helps identify any obstacles like uneven ground. If your decking area involves complex shapes, consider drawing a detailed plan first. This will help you adjust your layout before marking the actual ground. Proper planning at this stage is invaluable.
By clearly marking out the area, you can ensure your decking fits perfectly. Take your time with this task; thorough preparation will save you time and extra work later on. Remember, preparation is key to a successful decking installation. A well-laid-out foundation sets the tone for a smooth and efficient project.
Remove Plants, Turf & Weeds Where The Decking Will Go
When you're planning to install decking, it's essential to clear the ground of plants, turf and weeds. Proper preparation lays the foundation for a safe, durable, and attractive deck. Start by marking out the area where the decking will be installed.
Once the area is pegged out, the first step is to remove any grass and plants within the boundary. Removing the turf can be done using a spade or a turf cutter. Turf cutters can dig up the grass and roots efficiently, ensuring a clean start for your project.
Removing the turf is crucial to create an even spread of soil. This ensures that weeds do not grow underneath or through the decking, as they can lead to structural issues over time. Make sure to get rid of the roots to prevent the weeds from growing back
For the turf, cut it into manageable strips, roll them up, and set them aside. These can be reused elsewhere in your garden, making the process eco-friendly. Next, turn over the fresh dirt and soil, ensuring you remove any large rocks, debris, or old roots.
This step prevents any uneven placements and future growth underneath the decking. Raking the soil several times helps to create a smooth and even surface. If the ground is noticeably uneven or rocky, you may need to dig deeper or add more soil to create a level base. A flat surface is vital to support your decking and prevent wobbling or tipping. A well-prepared area also means fewer issues with weeds in the future. Taking the time to clear and prepare the ground helps avoid problems such as uneven decking.
Additionally, if there are any trees or large plants within the decking area, these need to be removed carefully. Large roots can disturb the decking, causing it to become unstable over time. Removing plants and turf ensures that the decking is laid on a level base.
Make Sure To Level & Compact The Ground
When preparing the ground for decking, it's crucial for the ground to be both level and compact. After removing any plants, turf, and weeds, the next step involves creating a stable and even surface. Begin by using a spirit level to check for any irregularities. This helps ensure that the decking will sit evenly, reducing the risk of instability. If you come across any high spots, dig them down so the ground is even. However, if you find any low spots, fill them in with extra soil and level them out.
Continuously check the ground level as you proceed to maintain as flat a surface as possible. Achieving a level base is crucial since it prevents uneven decking down the line. After levelling the ground, the next crucial step is to compact the soil. You can use a garden tamper or a heavy roller for this task. Compacted soil provides a firm base for the decking, ensuring it doesn't lie unevenly.
By ensuring the ground is level, you create a stable surface that will support the weight of the decking and any structure you plan to place on it. Proper groundwork results in a more professional and durable project.
Install A Membrane & Lay Gravel
When preparing the ground for decking, it's important to install both a membrane and gravel. Start by using a weed-control fabric to cover the entire decking area. Place this fabric on the ground, ensuring it overlaps slightly at the edges.
This provides complete coverage and prevents future weed growth. The fabric acts as a barrier that stops weeds from growing up through the decking boards. Secure the fabric in place using U-shaped garden pins, ensuring it stays flat.
Once the membrane is properly installed, it's time to lay a layer of gravel on top. This layer is crucial for drainage as it prevents water from pooling under the decking.
Standing water can lead to the wooden sub-frame rotting. Spread the gravel evenly across the area, aiming for a depth of about 50mm. This allows for adequate drainage while creating a stable base. By combining a weed-control fabric and gravel, you create a hard-wearing foundation for your decking. This combination protects the wood against weeds and water damage. This preparation helps to extend the life of your decking and ensures it remains in good condition for years to come.
Spray Weed Killer Or Lay A Weed Barrier
When preparing the ground for decking, it's best to get weeds under control from the get-go. One effective method is to spray weed killer, while another involves laying a barrier. Both contribute to the longevity and appearance of your decking area. Spraying weed killer is an excellent step in preparing your decking area. It's crucial to choose a product that is both effective and environmentally friendly. Weed killers are formulated to target and destroy weeds at the root. This ensures that you remove the problem from its source.
By applying weed killer before laying your decking, you reduce the chances of new weeds sprouting. This means less maintenance in the future. Killing weeds before they become a problem allows you to enjoy your decking without worrying about pesky plants. Laying a weed control barrier is another highly recommended method. This approach creates a physical layer that weeds can't penetrate. Weed control fabrics or membranes are often used for this purpose. They are made from materials that let water pass through while preventing weeds from growing.
If you didn't lay a membrane in the previous step, now is the time. Cut the fabric to fit your decking area, making sure to overlap the edges to prevent gaps. Secure the barrier with U-shaped garden pins for added stability. A weed barrier provides long-term defence against weed growth. Unlike weed killers, a well-installed barrier can last for years.
Spraying weed killer and then laying a weed barrier gives you a dual layer of protection. Using both methods ensures that you tackle the weed problem from all angles. This dual approach makes it less likely for weeds to push through your decking area. Weeds spoil the appearance of your decking and also undermine its structural integrity. Combining these methods means you spend less time weeding and more time enjoying your outdoor space.
Are you looking for garden decking installation near you? If you require garden decking in Milton Keynes, Buckinghamshire, contact us today. Our garden design experts can supply and install beautiful garden decking for you and your family to enjoy for years to come.