How to build scaffold board decking

This page is all about how to create a scaffold board decking area which is fully detailed below along with photos and information sent into us from customers who have used our timber scaffolding boards to create decking at home. Here you will be able to see the great decked areas our customers have created in their garden.

Decking is one of the most popular uses for our new scaffold boards, as they are a brilliant option to use, and this is because you will find they are usually cheaper and longer lasting than the normal decking boards.

If you are good at DIY and have a bit of creative flair, you can make many different types of decked areas in your garden. However, if you are looking for a little inspiration then why not see how other customers have used the boards, by browsing our amazing scaffold board decking images below.

Top tip – We have been informed by numerous customers that the boards must be treated with deck stain and an anti-slip stain! This is because when they get wet, they can be quite slippery.

How to create a decked area?

One of our customers kindly sent us a quick guide on how to build decking with scaffold boards.

Why would you use scaffold boards as a decking area?

Compared to the price of actual decking planks, scaffold boards are cheaper and are also wider than conventional decking, so in fact you would purchase less boards to cover your area. The thickness of each board is also a consideration because the thicker the board the less timber you would need for the framework it would sit on, and we all know how expensive timber can be if you are on a budget for your garden project.

Getting started – Preparing the area.

You will need to assess what type of decked area you require, as there are two different types. These are raised decking or having the scaffold board decking sitting on the ground. This will depend on the type of garden area you have, as if you are on a slope then a raised deck would be better suited or if you have a nice level area then the scaffold board decking can be placed onto the ground.

A must purchase for this project is heavy duty weed control fabric, and this should be placed under the framework to ensure that no weeds will grow through the gap of the boards. This fabric will completely block out any sunlight but will still allow water to penetrate through it.

How to build the framework?

This is the most vital part of the building project. So before laying out your frame, it is recommended that you treat your timber or purchase wood that has already been treated beforehand. Scaffold boards are NOT treated despite being used outdoors and braving the elements.

When making your frame start by creating the outer shell first (popular shapes are square, rectangle or l-shape). Small tip: when cutting the wood to size treat the ends of the cuts with an end grain preservative to ensure all aspects of the timber are treated.

It is recommended you use coach screws to connect the frame together ensuring that all angles are square and level. Once the outer frame has been created, then its time to add the additional lengths of wood either vertically or horizontally with even spacing between each length. Depending on your budget it is recommended you add as many lengths of wood as possible within your frame to ensure your base is strong and sturdy and gives maximum support to the scaffold board decking.

Ensuring the framework is level.

This can be done whilst you are building the frame and adding the supports. This is generally the most time-consuming part of the scaffold decking build, ensuring every area is completely level with one another. Creating a raised decking area off the ground is a little simpler as all you need to do is ensure that the ground is level. There are a few ways to do this depending again on what surface you are working from, for example if the ground is soil, then posts would be cemented into the ground to hold the raised section, or if you are working on a concrete base then you can use padstones or bits of surplus slabs to level the areas that need it. Once level and in place the framework should be solid with no movement. Always remember to have a very slight tilt on your scaffold board decking area for when it rains or gets wet so that the water can drain off the boards rather than sitting and rotting the wood.

Treating the boards

Scaffold boards come untreated as standard so it is highly recommended to treat your boards with a good wood treatment, which can be purchased from any DIY store. Treat all areas of the boards to ensure maximum protection and give at least 2 or 3 coats.

How to fit the boards?

Simply place a board where you need it to go and using long decking screws, drill into the framework and supports. When adding additional boards keep a small gap between each board.

Once the scaffold board decking has been laid and secured it is advised to treat them for extra protection again with a decking stain/oil to help prolong their life.