How Would You Space The Supports For Decking?

September 18^th, 2024 in Civils

A Comprehensive Guide for a Perfect Deck

Building a sturdy and long-lasting deck is not only about selecting the right materials but also about ensuring proper support placement. At The Decking Block Company, we know that one of the most critical factors in deck construction is determining how to space your decking supports accurately. Properly spaced supports ensure your deck’s structural integrity and longevity, providing a safe and enjoyable outdoor space for years to come.

In this guide, we’ll explore the key aspects of decking support spacing, including why it’s crucial, how to calculate it, and tips for ensuring a solid foundation.

Why Is Support Spacing Important?

Correct spacing of your deck’s supports is crucial for:

1. Load Distribution: Ensuring even weight distribution across the deck surface. Too few supports can lead to sagging, while too many can result in wasted materials and effort.
2. Structural Integrity: Properly spaced supports prevent your decking boards from warping or bending under pressure, creating a flat and secure surface.
3. Compliance with Building Regulations: Following the recommended spacing ensures your deck meets local building codes and safety standards, avoiding costly repairs or rebuilds.

Factors That Influence Support Spacing

Several factors determine how far apart your decking supports should be. These include:

• Type of Decking Material: Composite, hardwood, and softwood decking all have different load-bearing capacities.
• Deck Height and Size: A large or raised deck requires more support than a smaller, ground-level deck.
• Joist Spacing: The spacing between your deck joists directly impacts the spacing of your support blocks.
• Load Requirements: Will the deck hold heavy furniture, a hot tub, or a lot of foot traffic? The more load, the more support you’ll need.

General Guidelines for Support Spacing

While exact measurements can vary depending on the factors above, here are some general guidelines for support spacing:

1. For a Ground-Level Deck

For a ground-level deck (up to 600mm high), you’ll want to place supports:

• Every 1.5m to 2m along the perimeter of the deck.
• Between 1m to 1.5m apart for internal supports. The spacing depends on the size of your joists and decking boards.

2. For a Raised Deck

If your deck is higher than 600mm off the ground, it will need additional support due to increased load:

• Support blocks should be placed every 1m to 1.5m along the perimeter.
• Internal supports should be no more than 1m apart to ensure proper weight distribution.

3. For Larger Decks or Heavy Loads

For decks that will hold heavy loads (like a hot tub or large furniture), the supports should be:

• At most 1m apart on the perimeter.
• Internal supports spaced 0.75m to 1m apart, depending on the load-bearing capacity of your materials.

Step-by-Step Process for Spacing Deck Supports

Now that you understand the basics of support spacing, here’s how to properly space your supports step by step:

Step 1: Measure and Mark

Start by measuring the total area where your deck will be installed. Mark out the perimeter of the deck, and then mark out where your support blocks will go. Make sure your spacing matches the type of deck and material you’re using.

Step 2: Place the Perimeter Supports

Once the markings are in place, install the support blocks around the perimeter of your deck first. Use a spirit level to ensure that each block is level and stable.

Step 3: Install Internal Supports

After setting the perimeter, work your way inward, spacing your internal supports based on the deck design and weight load. Make sure they’re evenly spaced and aligned with the joists for maximum support.

Step 4: Double-Check the Alignment

Before you start laying your decking boards, double-check the alignment of your supports. They should be level and securely positioned to prevent any shifting.

Take the Guesswork Out: Use Our Decking Block Calculator!

To make things even easier, we offer a free decking block calculator. This handy tool helps you quickly determine how many support blocks you’ll need based on the size and shape of your deck. Simply enter your deck dimensions, and the calculator will provide an accurate count of decking blocks required, ensuring you have the right amount to build a safe, secure deck without any unnecessary overspending.

Using our calculator removes the guesswork from planning and ensures you get the perfect number of supports every time.

Tips for Success

• Consider Joist Spans: The span of your joists will affect the spacing of your supports. Shorter joist spans require more supports, while longer spans need fewer but stronger supports.
• Use Quality Decking Blocks: Investing in high-quality, durable decking blocks ensures your supports will remain stable and last for years. Our blocks at The Decking Block Company are designed for easy installation and maximum strength.
• Check Local Building Codes: Always check with your local council or building authority to ensure your deck complies with any building codes, particularly if it’s raised above a certain height.

 

Properly spacing your decking supports is essential for a strong and secure deck. By following the guidelines outlined in this post and considering factors like the type of deck, load requirements, and joist spacing, you can ensure a perfect build. And with the help of our Decking Block Calculator, you’ll know exactly how many blocks you need, saving you time, effort, and money.

At The Decking Block Company, we offer a wide range of top-quality decking blocks that make your installation easy and durable. Feel free to contact us if you need further advice or assistance with your decking project!