STEP-BY-STEP GUIDE

How to lay decking: part 1 - level the area and build the foundation

Decking is a very popular garden design option, and like many garden projects – it’s all in preparation. DIY expert Craig Phillips demonstrates how to lay decking in your garden, starting by making sure the garden area is level before you begin laying your decking boards. This is the first section of a two-part video guide.

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How to lay decking: part 1 - level the area and build the foundation

How to lay decking - level the area and build the foundation

This garden design project is featured in the series If It’s Broke, Fix It, exclusive to Home.

This is intended to give a brief over view of the garden design project. For more in-depth decking advice and design ideas, see the links at the end of this article.

  • <b>Step 1: Lay the foundation for your decking</b>

    Step 1: Lay the foundation for your decking

    Begin by cutting away a grass area big enough to fit a paving slab. Mix up your sand and cement mix and bed it down in the area before laying the slab on top. This will act as a foundation and take the weight of your decking. Repeat this process in all four corners of your frame.

  • <b>Step 2: Level the area</b>

    Step 2: Level the area

    Lay a couple of bricks on top of your first paving slab to begin levelling the area. Repeat the process on all four corners laying as many bricks as needed in each corner to ensure the frame is level.

  • <b>Step 3: Ensure the decking frame is level</b>

    Step 3: Ensure the decking frame is level

    Using a spirit level, check that each side of your frame is level. Adjust the amount of cement or bricks used to create the level frame you're looking for.

    Watch the second part of this basic guide to decking, Part 2 - how to lay decking. Or, for more detailed decking advice, see the links below.

  • <b> Looking for more garden design advice on decking? </b>

    Looking for more garden design advice on decking?

    We have several articles on laying and maintaining decking – as well as galleries offering inspirational design advice. Take a look at the following in-depth articles to find out more:

    How to build decking: part 1 - setting out the area
    How to build decking: part 2 - building the frame
    How to build decking: part 3 - how to lay the boards

    Garden design: decking layout ideas
    How to repair and maintain decking

Related sections: Garden design , Decking , Outdoor maintenance , Outdoor living garden ideas , If It's Broke Fix It

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