How to Prepare the Ground for a Composite Decking Terrace?
Composite decking boards are a durable material that shows high resistance to adverse conditions. However, before you start laying the composite decking on your terrace, you need to properly prepare the ground. That’s why we’ve prepared a short guide explaining popular methods for preparing the ground for composite decking boards.
Concrete Slab for Composite Decking
One of the most solid ways to prepare the ground is with a concrete slab. However, this should be considered during the construction phase of your house. Creating a slab is a time-consuming process, primarily because of the relatively long drying time of concrete. Under the composite decking boards, it’s best to use lean concrete reinforced with a mesh. It should be poured onto an approximately 10-centimeter layer of previously compacted sand. When making the slab for the decking, remember to maintain a 3% slope, which will allow rainwater to drain freely towards the garden. Without the slope, water might flow towards the building, potentially causing wall dampness.
Crushed Stone Base for Composite Decking
A less expensive option for the base under composite decking is crushed stone. Preparing the surface is also less time-consuming in this case. The base should also be made of compacted sand. On its surface, you should place at least a 10-centimeter layer of crushed stone and a compactor. The thickness of the layer should be adjusted to the desired height of the terrace. Crushed stone is suitable for low terraces. If the composite decking platform is to be raised half a meter, concrete slabs and supports will be necessary. These will help level the base.
Base of Concrete Slabs or Blocks
When choosing a concrete base for composite decking, you can opt for concrete slabs or special blocks. Full or perforated slabs and blocks are used only on stable ground that doesn’t tend to sink. Ideally, this should be compacted sand, gravel, or sand bedding stabilized with cement. The gaps between the slabs or blocks are best filled with gravel.
Concrete Posts in the Ground
The last type of base for a composite decking terrace is concrete posts. These are created using special tubes that act as a formwork. The tubes should be placed in the excavations at a depth of about 1 meter, below the frost zone. Then, they are filled with reinforced concrete. The concrete posts should be spaced 35-60 cm apart, depending on the chosen joists. This is especially important for larger terraces to maintain proper stability. After a week, the supports are ready for the installation of the composite decking terrace.
Wondering which ground preparation method to choose? We can help you make this tough decision. By choosing the option of terrace pricing with the help of a specialist from Liderwood, you can count on expert advice on how to prepare the ground on your property. This way, you can enjoy not only the beautiful appearance but also the durability of your new terrace.
