Preparation and a stable foundation – the key to a long-lasting deck

A long-lasting deck starts with thorough preparation. A well-compacted gravel bed creates a stable foundation, and adjustable supports make it easier to create a level base. Once the foundation is level and the supports are correctly spaced, the rest of the build goes much more easily.

Tip: Always check that the base is level and sufficiently compacted. An unstable foundation will cause problems later.

Detailed guide to preparation

The substructure – the load-bearing structure of the deck

The substructure is the basis of the deck and must be both stable and accurate. Build it in modules and you will work more efficiently. You can choose between two types of substructure: crossed or flush. The choice usually depends on the height of the deck.

• A crossed substructure is the quickest to install, but it needs a little height under the decking boards to fit (shown on the right).
• If the deck is to sit close to the ground, a flush substructure is usually installed, in which the beams and joists cross at the same height (shown on the left).

You can join the substructure with timber engineering connectors and connector screws, or with construction screws.

Guide: building the substructure

Installing the decking boards – the deck takes shape

When the substructure has been built properly, installing the decking boards goes quickly and the result looks good. A few quick installation tips:

• Install the screws at the correct distance from the edge and end of the decking board.
• Countersink the screw so that it is flush with the decking board.
• If possible, lay the boards heartwood side up.
• Always lay the boards with spacing between the edges according to Svenskt Trä, so that the deck lasts.

Guide: correct installation of decking boards

A tip for an exceptionally luxurious look

With the ESSVE HDS system you can install your deck with hidden fixing – the screws are driven at an angle from the side, so the screw heads cannot be seen on the surface.

The HDS system consists of an installation tool (HDS PRO), stainless steel screws (A2 or A4) and decking spacers. A simple system for professionals and DIYers alike.

• Easy installation
• Luxurious look
• Smooth surface
• Lower risk of splintering and cracking

HDS installation guide