A deck is a raised exterior component, typically made from timber, that provides an aesthetic and functional area for activities to take place. Parties and barbecues are commonly hosted on decks, as they provide a flat surface elevated or separated from the grass on which seating and tables can be placed. Decks can be installed at many different heights to suit the layout of a house or garden. Rear doors within a property may open onto a low deck that is only slightly elevated from the common ground level. In properties where the garden has an extreme gradient, a deck may project from the level of the rear doors into the garden, being supported by posts to create a usable flat exterior surface. In these scenarios, safety railings and access stairs are also typical. These components can be very aesthetic. Whilst not so common in the UK, wrap around porches are an integrated external component of ranch style/farmhouse style building - a component that i[1] s more commonly seen in the US. These porches are assembled with decking as a pedestrian surface. Here we shall look at the different components of a deck, and how they are installed.

Whilst there exist many different styles of decks in terms of functionality, the basic construction is relatively straightforward, following many of the structural concepts and procedures that we’ve already looked at. At its most basic, a deck is a flat surface, formed by decking boards, that sit on top of a level joist system. These joists are installed in accordance with the associated procedures, such as meeting all of the carpentry criteria, being adequately supported, as well as being installed at regular OC intervals. The joist system is raised off of the ground to some degree to prevent direct contact with the ground below, commonly being supported via posts, and abuting the property with a supporting ledger board. Where applicable, timber joist hangers and other metal fasteners and ironmongery are used to provide solid connections between each of the timber components.

Due to the exposed nature of this external component, appropriate weather proofing precautions must be taken to protect the exposed timber and prevent rot. The surface of the deck itself can be formed from a range of different materials, each with their own strengths and weaknesses. Regular pressure treated timber is the most common for these external applications, as well as the most affordable. Despite the pressure treatment, it's not uncommon for this material to suffer adversely due to long periods of exposure, particularly if additional weatherproofing precautions are not taken. More durable hardwood timber species such as oak can be purchased at a higher cost, though this is reflected in the aesthetic finish and resistant properties of the timber. Engineered timber products such as thermowood or accoya are also available at a higher cost, with these materials being specifically engineered for their resistance to rot and infestation. Straying away from wood, a wide range of other materials are used to produce a variety of decking styles, such as PVC, composite plastic, aluminium, and cement board. The specific material to be used for a deck is subject to the price, aesthetics, and resistant requirements highlighted by the client in conjunction with the contractor. In some instances, the materials used must meet local fire regulations - this will be highlighted and enforced by building control if planning application is required. 

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