Decking
Timber Decking has become very popular over the last few years. It can be very quick to install and allows great flexibility in awkward sites. It is ideally suited to properties where the land slopes away from the house.
Whilst decking is relatively simple to install care must be take to ensure the supporting structure is strong enough, and that any foundations, damp proofing and pillar supports are correctly installed. Antony lays a weed preventing membrane under any decking to prevent any weed growth.
Antony has installed a variety of decks in several finishes and has invested in a range of air compressor and gas canister nail guns as well as quick feed drivers to speed up the laying of decking.
The log cabin in the photos was finished with a deck on 3 sides as well as two balcony's with decking. More photos of other decking work will be uploaded when available.
Keeping your decking looking good!
Decking should be brushed with a stiff broom on a regular basis throughout the year. In Spring or Autumn, decks can be thorough cleaned with a pressure washer or Decking Cleaner to remove grease and and mildew and to restore the look of the wood. Keeping the deck surface clean will keep it looking good and prevent the surface from becoming slippery when wet. A good water repellant coating should also be applied.
Unless a deck is painted with a stain, the original colour of the timber used will fade gradually when exposed to the elements. Whether your deck is made from a deeply coloured hardwood or the more mellow hues of a softwood species it will fade over time to a pleasant grey . However, using a clear water repellent coating will help to prevent fading.
Timber is a natural product and as your deck timbers weather, small cracks are likely to appear on the surface of the boards. These are caused by the intermittent wetting and drying of the wood and are part of the character of wood. They have no structural effect whatsoever. This natural ageing process can be slowed by the annual use of a clear water repellent coating.