Decking

[edit] Introduction

Decking is a term that can be applied to numerous applications in construction.

One of its more common forms is the platform areas (sometimes raised) in domestic gardens that are used for special functions such as relaxation, for sun loungers or barbecues. These will usually comprise a timber substructure with decking boards laid on top. The decking boards can either be timber (usually pressure-treated) or be made of composite or synthetic materials.

Timber decking boards usually require a degree of maintenance involving painting, preserving or sealing to provide protection and durability. Composites and synthetics typically require no preservative treatment. Some of the composite decking available is made from recycled wood and plastic and although lacking the natural wood appearance, can be cheaper and easier to maintain.

Timber and composite decking can either be laid as strip (typically 120mm wide) or as tiles that measure around 300 x 300mm.

[edit] Other applications

The term decking (or deck) can also apply to:

• The boarding used to support the finishing layer on floors and flat roofs.
• The horizontal (supporting) formwork that is used when casting insitu concrete slabs.
• The prefabricated concrete planks used to form ground, upper floors and flat roofs.
• The boarding (usually plywood) that is nailed to timber rafters to crate the support for the roof finish, be that tiles, slates or metal sheet (e.g zinc, copper, lead).
• The finished surface of boardwalks.

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