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Decking is installed on many surfaces, from backyard patios to docks in piers on the water. There are some important steps to keep in mind to ensure that the finished product looks professional and lasts a long time. An important beginning step to keep in mind is that the installation of the decking should begin from the outside edge of the frame. Doing this will account for any overhang and notching that is necessary to accommodate a railing. Make your best effort to follow the age-old adage, measure twice, cut once; it will likely save you from having to purchase extra decking.

It is not hard to notice when decking is not actually parallel and it gives the decking a very unprofessional appearance. When you install the first piece of decking, make sure to measure the overhang along the length of the board to make sure it is consistent. Using spacers between each board will help to maintain an even gap. Natural lumber frequently has some curvature to it so you may need to use a chisel in order to lever the boards closer together. There are also deck lever tools that are designed especially for this task and they will save your chisel from damage and are a good investment for a large decking project.

Depending on the type of decking, you will need different types of fasteners to affix the decking to the frame. Soft wood can be attached with nails. These nails should be at least 3” long and if you purchase galvanized spiral nails, they will give you an even tighter hold. Cedar is one of the most common lumbers used for decking and because of its softness, you may not even need to use spiral nails. Pressure-treated lumber requires longer nails or even better screws to ensure that the joints stay firmly attached. Even though screws are more expensive than nails, it is important to use them with pressure-treated lumber because of this type of lumber’s extreme pulling power. If you fill in the holes with wood filler and then stain the entire deck, it will give it a uniform appearance. Another option even more durable than wood filler is auto body filler since it is harder and less likely to pop out of the holes.

Decking is usually installed wet and then allowed to shrink. The fact the boards shrink is important to keep in mind when spacing the decking. By spacing the wet lumber at an 1/8 inch, when the wood dries out you will have gaps around ¼ inch, which is reasonable for wooden decking. This gap will allow for the proper amount of expansion when it rains and allow the rain to escape and not pool on the decking surface and damage it.

Installing your wooden decking the correct way will help you to get the most out of your investment. Wooden decking will give your deck or pier a classic nautical finish and is also very durable, meaning it will last for generations and give you and your family years of enjoyment by the water.