Chargement…
Choose the supporting base and surface first. TesCalculs then takes you from measurements and drainage through structure, quantities and budget.
Start with the guide matching your intended surface or supporting base.
Choose the right build-up, prepare the base and calculate materials for timber, composite, pedestal, paving or concrete projects.
How to build a deck or patio: from planning to finishing →Prepare, plan and install composite decking over natural ground or concrete, including gaps, joists, clips and quantities.
How to build composite decking: a complete guide →Choose suitable timber, prepare the base, lay out the joists and install a durable, well-ventilated timber deck.
How to build a timber deck: frame, boards and finishing →Select pedestals, prepare the base, calculate the support grid and install paving slabs or a joisted deck while preserving drainage.
How to build a deck or patio on pedestals: base, grid and levelling →Plan a concrete patio, prepare the ground, estimate volume and organise formwork, drainage, joints, placing and curing.
How to build a concrete patio: preparation, placing and curing →Compare three exterior slab methods, prepare the base, set out the pattern, calculate quantities and complete joints and edges.
How to lay patio slabs: on pedestals, a laying bed or adhesive →Turn natural ground into a stable base for timber, composite, pedestal or paving projects without confusing geotextile with a foundation.
How to build a deck or patio over soil: base, drainage and installation →Assess the slab, check falls and threshold clearance, then choose boards, pedestals or bonded paving without trapping water or covering movement joints.
How to install decking or paving over an existing concrete slab →Prepare the ground, drainage, structure and installation exactly when each becomes relevant.
Excavate, install geotextile, compact aggregate and manage drainage before building a pedestal deck or patio.
How to prepare the ground or concrete base for a deck or patio →Position pedestals, choose joist centres, plan board-end joints and calculate a dependable support grid.
Decking pedestals and joists: layout, spans and spacing →Understand slope percentages, calculate fall, plan outlets and avoid low spots around doors and walls.
Deck and patio falls and drainage: calculate and mark levels →Prepare the frame, orient boards, plan cuts and end joints, then apply the product-specific gaps and fixings for timber or composite decking.
How to lay decking boards: layout, gaps and fixings →Consolidate costs, then organise inspection and maintenance for the surface.
Price groundworks, frame, surface, fixings, delivery, hire and labour without hiding assumptions or applying an arbitrary allowance.
Deck or patio cost: build a complete, checkable budget →Inspect and clean each material safely while monitoring drainage, fixings, joints and structural stability.
How to maintain timber, composite, concrete and paved terraces →