Page 1 of Decking over concrete

Now that Spring is here (apparently) I want to cover an old concrete slab (3 meters x 7 meters) with some decking. The slab is sloped for water run-off and is in pretty decent shape with no major cracks or settlement issues. I`m looking to put down a fairly simple rectangular deck with perhaps a slightly raised platform on one end.

Anyone done this before and would like to share some tips... specifically on how to attach the framework to the concrete.

I put a small deck in the far corner of my garden, its where the sun ends the day. It was on grass, removed the grass, put membrane down to prevent weeds, frame and then deck

would you need to attach the deck to the slab?. The weight of the deck, joists etc would prevent any movement. You may need to put a membrane down to isolate the joists from the slab for weeds, moisture

I would make a frame from possibly 4 x 2 timber , make sure the frame is flat level, and screw the decking on top of the frame. Edge the front with timber for decor etc

good luck

Bill

This item was edited on Wednesday, 28th March 2007, 16:18

Thanks Bill, so you reckon I shouldn`t even need to bolt/screw the joists to the slab? It would certainly make life simpler if it was a free-floating structure. I was planning on using galvanised or plastic shims beneath the joists so that they would not be in direct contact with any water that may gather under the deck. Some membrane would definitely be a good idea too. Cheers.

Take a look on the Wickes website , they have a guide sheet for how to plan and build a decking.

For the actual timber you should check out your yellow pages and phone a few places for prices , we have a saw mill nearby that opens on Saturday morning to sell to the general public at a fraction of the price you`d pay in B&Q etc.