Timber Decking kits have risen in popularity in recent years, perhaps because they are a relatively low cost and easy-to-install way of adding practicality, usability and elegance to almost any garden space.

With this in mind, here are our top tips for building a garden patio deck.

1. Timber boards should always be laid out loosely, in component form, on top of the completed joist framework prior to being screwed down. This is because the longer the timbers are left to become surface dry, the fewer the effects of weathering (particularly shrinkage) after they have been fixed. It is also worth noting that timbers can be cut and sanded far more easily, if need be, if they are dried.

2. Decking boards should always be fixed don using corrosion-resistant screws, using two screws placed around 20% of its width in from either edge of the decking board. For structural fixtures and fittings, such as those used in raised decks, you may wish to use specially galvanised fixings.

3. Decking boards should be pre-drilled before screws are inserted. These pilot holes will help ease the fixing process and reduce the risk of the deck boards splitting.

4. Deck board screws should be at least 2 times the thickness of your decking timbers. This will help improve the strength of the timber decking kit, and therefore extend its usable shelf life. For a 28mm deck board, such as those found in the popular decking kits, aim to use screws of 60mm length or above. Many decking kits even include 65mm decking screws as standard within the kit itself.