Share
Hi everyone. I have assembled the framing of the modular decking for my low level deck (see photos). What is in the photo is essentially a walkway, the main deck will be under the pergola and slightly higher. I've gained some confidence from what I've done so far and am considering using tuffblocks and building a framework rather than using the modular decking for the main deck. My question is just about the joist size. I'm not going to use a bearer and joists system, just a framework of joists, mainly because the Pergola is already there (before I bought the house) so I need to preserve the ceiling height of the pergola as much as possible.
I'm unsure about joist size and span of tuffblocks. The Tuffblock website has an article where they're using 2"x6" (45x150) joists, I've seen joists of 45x90 used in Australian based articles and the joists of the Good Times modular panels from Bunnings are 45x70. I'll probably use 140x19 merbau decking.
The pavers will be staying, they're not perfectly level, a small part of the deck will be on soil (the far sides in the second photo).
The total size of the main deck will be about 6.4m x 7.4m or 47.36 m2. It's a lot bigger than any articles I've seen about building a low level deck. Any advice will be much appreciated.
Hello @Zog
Yes, two screws per joist are standard for 140mm-wide merbau decking boards. This ensures they are properly secured and minimizes the risk of warping or cupping over time. I strongly suggest using a P&N 10G Quickbit TCT Cut Smart Countersink Drill Bit to save you time when drilling and countersinking the holes for your decking screws. This has an excellent review from the deck builders that have used it. My best advice is to test the drill bit first on timber offcuts so that you can get familiar with its function and behaviour.
If you have any other questions we can help with, please let us know.
Eric
