If you’re considering building a deck, you may wonder whether you can lay decking on paving slabs. The answer is yes, but there are a few things to consider before you get started.
Firstly, ensuring that the paving slabs are level and stable is important. If they are uneven or wobbly, your deck will be too. You may need to adjust or replace some slabs to create a solid foundation for your deck. Additionally, if the slabs are in poor condition, it may be worth considering removing them altogether and starting from scratch with a new base.
Preparation and Planning
Before laying decking on paving slabs, planning and preparing the area properly is important. This will ensure that the end result is sturdy, safe, and long-lasting. Here are some key things to consider:
Assessing the Paving Slabs
The first step is to assess the condition of the paving slabs. Check for any cracks, chips, or unevenness. If the slabs are damaged, you may need to replace them before laying the decking. It is also important to ensure that the slabs are level and stable. Use a spirit level to check for any dips or bumps, and ensure the slabs are firmly in place.
Materials and Tools Required
To lay decking on paving slabs, you will need various materials and tools. Here is a list of the essentials:
- Decking boards
- Joists
- Screws
- Drill
- Saw
- Tape measure
- Spirit level
- Chalk line
- Hammer
- Nails
It is important to choose high-quality materials that are suitable for outdoor use. Ensure the decking boards are pressure-treated and have grooves to prevent slipping. The joists should be strong enough to support the weight of the decking, and the screws should be rust-resistant.
Decking Installation
Laying the Decking Frame
Before laying the decking frame, it is important to ensure that the paving slabs are level and stable. If they are not, you may need to add a layer of sand or gravel to create a level surface. Once the surface is level, you can lay the decking frame.
To lay the decking frame, you must use treated timber joists. These should be laid perpendicular to the direction of the decking boards, with a gap of around 400mm between each joist. This will provide the necessary support for the decking boards.
To fix the joists to the paving slabs, you can use masonry screws or concrete anchors. Make sure that the screws or anchors are long enough to penetrate the paving slabs and reach the ground below.
Fixing the Decking Boards
You can fix the decking boards once the decking frame is in place. It is important to use treated timber decking boards, as these are resistant to rot and decay.
To fix the decking boards, you can use decking screws or nails. Make sure that the screws or nails are long enough to penetrate the decking boards and the joists below. It is recommended to pre-drill the holes to prevent the wood from splitting.
When fixing the decking boards, leaving a gap of around 5mm between each board is important. This will allow for the wood’s expansion and contraction due to temperature and humidity changes.
Overall, laying decking on paving slabs is a straightforward process that can be completed with basic DIY skills. By following these simple steps, you can create a beautiful and functional outdoor space that will last for years.
