Having a large and comfortable outdoor space not only makes your home more enjoyable, but it also adds value to your property. Doing it yourself is a great option because it allows you to take full advantage of having a deck with having to hire a professional to come in, which can get very pricey, very quickly.

But putting together a deck is no simple task. It requires a good amount of planning and foresight. But decking kits can be a great alternative, and to help you with this process, we’ve put together this guide detailing what you need.

What Are DIY Decking Kits?

DIY decking kits come with pre-made materials so that you don’t need to worry so much about a lot of the technical stuff that comes with building a new structure.

All you need to do is choose the design you like and install it. This reduces the stress and planning involved, and it may leave you with a better finished product. All of the building materials, such as brackets, joists, bearers, bolts, and decking screws will also be included, eliminating yet another step from the project.

Typically, decking kits are sold per panel, so it’s also very easy to determine the budget of your project. You won’t need to worry about working with contractors and getting accurate quotes and estimates. It’s all pretty much done for you.

Planning Stages

While it’s true DIY decking kits require significantly less planning, there are still some things you should be looking out for before starting your project. For one, you will need check with your local council to see if you need to submit an application for your deck. Whether or not this is necessary will vary from region to region, so make sure to double check before you begin construction.

Decking Materials

Once you’ve gotten approval for your project, measure the area where you want to build the deck, and then head to the store to pick up your kit. Since most of the prefab is done for you, the biggest decision you’ll need to make when buying your kit is which material you want to use.

There are tons of different options, with your choices being mostly divided between hardwood and softwood. Hardwoods are more expensive, but they are also considered to be more durable, more resistant to water, and generally more beautiful. Softwoods, though, such as pine, are a good budget option and they tend to be easier to work with.

Build Your Deck

Once you have your materials, it’s time to get to work. The process will look more or less like this:

• Step 1: Clear the site and mark out your posts. Dig post holes and secure posts
• Step 2: Bolt your bearers to the posts
• Step 3: Lay out and fix joists
• Step 4: Add decking boards
• Step 5: Add decorative features such as stairs and benches.

That’s pretty much it. Of course, as any DIYer knows, there will likely be many more screams of pain and frustration along the way, but generally speaking, the process is easy and straightforward, which is why DIY decking kits are a great way to upgrade your outdoors space.