1 Take one old patio & photograph prior to demolition
2 Demolish patio & prepare area
3 Dig foundation holes for the front posts. Here the wall foundation extended further out than I had anticipated so the posts had to be positioned slightly further from the wall. Dont underestimate the challenge of digging a 0.65m deep hole (or 5 of them !) it does take a long time.
4 Build boxes to support the posts & install
5 Remove a tree / bush thats in the way
6 Collect the first batch of wood. I recommend having this delivered. All the wood is treated for outdoor use.
7 Install the main posts using deck beams for support. Align with a laser or string
8 Cement in place & dont touch for a day
9 Build the frame
10 Use coach bolts at all the joins for strength
11 Add supporting beams
12 Use joint hangers for the beams
13 Nail in additional sections for rigidity
14 Use weed killer prior to laying decking & cover with weed control fabric
15 The deck boards arrive
16 There will be a built in seat here
17 The first decking boards go down
18 Then some more
19 Then more
20 Then the boards are complete
21 Add decking onto the sides of the frame
22 Use a template to drill holes through the deck posts
23 Insert eyelets & install the tension wire. I used galvanised wire but stainless probably would have been better
24 Tension the wire on the hidden end of the handrail
25 Applying the first coat of Decking Oil in Natural Mahogany
26 Finished after 2 coats of oil
27 A seat we built into the deck
28 A few final touches
28 Just need the sun now
Altogether about 6 days work for 2 amateurs !
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