How do you build a deck in Australia standards?

How do you build a deck in Australia standards?

How To Build a Deck in Australia

1. Get the right permits. The first thing you’ll need to do before building a deck is to speak with your local council about whether or not a permit is required.
2. Plan.
3. Measure and set out your deck.
4. Install stumps and bearers.
5. Fit and install the joists.
6. Position and lay the decking.

What size timber should be used for decking?

The frame The key to constructing a good decking area is the frame. If the decking is being built on a low level it should be built of C16 graded treated joists 45 mm by 95mm (4×2 approx.). However if you are building a raised deck you should use 45mm x 145mm joists.

How far can Hardwood decking span?

The maximum recommended span for 19mm thick hardwood decking is for joists to be at 450mm centre. Spacing between boards should allow for proper air circulation and drainage as well as taking into account the seasonal movements. All timbers shrink as the timber dries and swells as it takes on moisture.

How far apart should bearers be on a deck Australia?

Set up the bearer spacings at a minimum of 1800mm centres with stump holes no more than 1500mm apart. The outside run of stumps will need to align with the outside edge of the deck.

How much clearance is needed under a deck?

Decks should be designed to last 25 years – the anticipated minimum life of a residential building. Subfloor bearers should have ground clearance of 450mm. Joists require capping with waterproof plastic or malthoid.

What are the standard dimensions for a deck?

A small deck intended to hold a round dining table should be at least 12 feet by 12 feet, while a large deck can be designed with much more space. The average deck size is between 300 and 400 square feet. Generally, a deck should be wider than it is deep, with the longer dimension running along the house.

Is 4×2 OK for decking?

4 x 2 Timber Rail / Joist These decking joists are the most common sized framing timber for decking. They provide a solid structure for fixing your decking boards too. When making your decking frame you should use a 400mm spacing between your timber joists.

Can I use 4×2 timber for decking?

Each end or these joists will be supported by the perimeter 4x2s. Tight fitting noggins in-between will make it all rigid. It will finish up looking like a load of ladders laid out, some of which will be bolted to your posts. I’ve done loads of decks and had no problem using 4×2 cls when a low profile is needed.

What is standard deck board spacing?

Proper deck board spacing should have a 1/8-inch gap after the decking has dried out. If you install your decking using wet boards, pressure-treated decking that has not yet dried out, then you should install them with no gap as a gap will be created as they dry and shrink. Deck spacing isn’t anything to take lightly.

Do I need a gap between decking boards?

Proper Gap between Decking Boards When installing decking boards, make sure to leave 1/4 to 1/8 inch gaps in between them. This gap will make sure that the deck can breathe, have sufficient drainage, and make it easier to clean.

What is the spacings for decking?

When installing decking boards, make sure to leave 1/4 to 1/8 inch gaps in between them. This gap will make sure that the deck can breathe, have sufficient drainage, and make it easier to clean. For the gaps, you can use different tools to help you.

What is the distance between joists in a deck?

Deck joists are typically spaced either every 12 inches or 16 inches on center. The maximum joist spacing you can use will depend on the size and allowable span of your joists.

What are the requirements for softwood decking in Australia?

Softwood decking shall comply with AS 4785 – Timber – Softwood – Sawn & milled products. Decking boards shall be seasoned to the requirements of the applicable Australian Standard (i.e. Hardwood 10% to 18%, Softwood 10% to 15%). Note: TQ recommends a maximum MC of 15% for residential decking.

What kind of wood is used for decking in Queensland?

Refer to ‘Construction Timbers in Queensland’ for suitability www.daff.qld.gov.au. Decking and deck framing above ground shall be either cypress, preservative treated pine or Above Ground Durability Class 1 hardwood. Hardwood decking boards and deck framing containing sapwood must be preservative treated.

What should be considered when building a timber deck?

When designing and building timber decks where timber is less than 400 mm from or on the ground, considerations must be given to the following to ensure good long term performance: • adequate ventilation • surface drainage • correct timber species selection • access for future maintenance and termite control.

How big is a 19 mm decking board?

Decking boards are available in various widths. For 19 mm thick Australian species boards, the widths that are usually available are 64 mm and 86 mm. Imported hardwood decking species are generally available in 70 mm or 90 mm widths.