Decking patterns

This article is about decking patterns. We show you many decking design ideas, as to build a deck close to the ideal one you have in mind. In this article we illustrate many decking patterns, starting with the most common up to several which are both complex and spectacular. Nevertheless, before deciding the decking pattern you will use, you must be awate of certain implication each type would generate: regarding the total cost, the complexity and the appearance.

First of all, you have to choose the decking boards dimensions and material. On the market, the decking boards come in many different dimensions starting with the 5/4 x 6 up to 2×4 and 2×6. In addition, you can also find 2×8 or even wider boards, but generally the wider the board the greater the possibility of cracking. Therefore, you should choose a conventional dimension, making sure that all boards are in perfect condition (do not use twisted or cracked boards).

Make sure you buy quality decking, which has been treated against excessive moisture or heat. Consequently, you could choose affordable Douglas fir or more expensive redwood or cedar decking (these are more resistant and have a better finish). Nevertheless, you should be aware that all wooden decking need regular maintenance (every 2-3 years), otherwise they will get a dull appearance. If you want to stay away from this drawbacks and you like a modern finish, the only option is to go for composite decking.

Although it looks amazing, a parquet decking or basket wave pattern require a more complex frame. Consequently, you need to install more joists, which will raise the total costs of your decking, but on the other hand will add personality and character to your yard.

Remember that the space between the decking supports vary with the decking dimensions, material and pattern. Consequently, if you install perpendicular 2×4 Douglas fir decking, the span should be 24”. If you install the same decking, buy this time diagonally, the distance between the joists should be 16”. In addition, 2×4 redwood or cedar should be supported by joists placed at 16”. Last but not least, the span between the frame joist should be 24”, you you install perpendicular 2×6 redwood or cedar. Nevertheless, check local requirement before starting the project, just to be sure.

 

Made from this plan

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In order to use these decking patterns, you need the following:

Materials

  • 2×4 or 2×6 decking
  • Wooden deck screws

 

Tools

  • Safety gloves, glasses
  • Circular saw to cut the wooden boards
  • Spirit level, carpentry pencil, corner square
  • Drill machinery and wood drill bits, to make pilot holes
  • Electric screwdriver to fasten screws

 

Tips

  • Use chalk line to draw the cut line
  • Drive the nails about 1” from each edge, as to avoid splitting the wood
  • For a neat look, insert the nails or screws enenly

 

Time

  • One weekend

 

 

Decking patterns

Regular decking pattern

Regular decking pattern

 

If you want to install the decking very quickly and to spend a relatively low amount of money, then you should definitively choose the regular decking pattern. Consequently, you have to fasten the decking boards perpendicular on the frame.

Make sure the joint of the boards are placed on a structural joist and use proper deck screws, as to get the job done in a professional manner.

 

Diagonal pattern

Diagonal pattern

 

If your deck frame is not exactly square, or if you like to add a little emotion to your deck, but in the same time to keep costs at a decent amount, then you could use the diagonal pattern.

You can install the boards at 45º or if you have a rectangular deck, you can adjust the angle so that to match to your shape. shape. Installing decking diagonally requires to set the joist closer one to other.

 

Diamond decking pattern

Diamond decking pattern

 

A variation of the diagonal patter is represented by the diamond decking. As you can see in the image, a diamond pattern is usually a good choice when you have a deck with a regular shape. In addition, If you use this pattern on a large area, you will loose the great effect, so make sure you balance all these aspects before starting the project.

Using the diamond decking pattern implies a lot of accurate cuts, so you have to use a good circular saw and you must be attentive, to avoid mistakes.

 

Herringbone decking pattern

Herringbone decking pattern

 

Another pattern you can use, is the so-called Herringbone pattern. Using this decking pattern also implies higher costs, as you need to double certain joists in the frame. Nevertheless, if you enjoy the design (and we can assure you it looks pretty spectacular) and you afford the extra-costs (due to raw materials but also to extra-labor), than it might fit your needs and tastes.

In order to make the cuts as accurately as possible, you have to use a good circular saw and a chalk line.

 

V-shaped decking pattern

V-shaped decking pattern

 

The V-shaped pattern is a simplified model of the Herringbone. If want a unique design, but you consider the Herringbone pattern too superfluous  or too expensive, you could choose this model.

Installing decking in a V-shaped pattern is not a complex job, provided you use the right tools and take proper measurements. In addition, you can choose the angle of the pattern, but we recommend you to use the common 45º, as it simplifies the work.

 

Basket wave pattern

Basket wave pattern

 

Another variation of the Herringbone pattern is the basket wave pattern.  This pattern can emphasize the unique character of your deck, but it definitely requires a lot of focus and preparation. In addition, the angle between two boards is restricted to 90º, which is not really bad, as you have to make fewer cuts.

Work with patience and make sure you leave a proper span between the structural joists.

 

Parquet pattern

Parquet pattern

 

Last but not least, another decking pattern you can use is the so-called parquet pattern. This pattern is the most exquisite one, but in the same time it requires the greatest amount of raw materials, therefore you must consider deeply the situation before taking a decision.

In addition, the little squares must be big enough to be noticeable but in the same time not too big, otherwise the beautiful pattern will be lost.

 

 

Deck edge design

Flush edge

Flush edge

 

Another design aspect one has to take into consideration when planning a deck is the edge details. Consequently, you have more options according to your needs and tastes. The first edge design is the flush, which means you have to cut the decking close to the deck frame. In order to hide the cut edge, you could install a wooden trim.

 

Overhang edge

Overhang edge

 

Another option you have when installing the wooden decking is to let them overhang the frame. In this way, you will have a good water drainage, which means your deck will last longer. If you want to build a durable deck, this edge design is the best choice.

In addition, this edge design looks nice and it could help you emphasize certain traits of your deck. The overhang should be around 1” over the deck skirting.

 

Boxed-in edge

Boxed-in edge

 

Another option you have when building the deck edge is to install a boxed-in edge. This is also a good choice if you like this design. The boxed-in edge design is less used, but is a good decision if you like the idea and design, although it might not drain water as efficiently as the overhang edge.

 

 

Thank you for reading our article about decking patterns, and we recommend you to check out the rest of our projects. Please LIKE and SHARE our projects with your friends, by using the social media widgets. SUBSCRIBE to be the first that gets our latest projects.




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