1. Balustrade and roof posts
We provide a choice of sawn or planed 100mm x 100mm posts in long lengths, usually 3.6 metre & 4.8 metre. They can be used full length or cut to size for decking balustrade and covered decking veranda and decking applications. Larger section posts, 125mm x 125mm and 150mm x 150mm, are also available in sawn and planed.

The choice of post size and finish will largely be determined by the proportions of the verandah, the elevation of the decked area and the budget allocated to the project.

2. Base, joists and ledger plate
Whatever the situation the decking area will need a supporting joist framework and posts to keep the framework above ground level. The framework can be secured to the building using a ledger plate and Thunderbolt fixings, joist hangers making the framework construction much easier.

The outer edge of the deck should be supported with planed or sawn posts, minimum size of 100mm x 100mm. Post spacings should ideally be 1.5m – 1.8m for deck support; for balustrading this can be increased to 2.4 metres.

3. Timber joists and roofing options
A wide range of tanalised sawn and planed finished timbers are available for joists, the size depending on span lengths and what type of roofing has been chosen. At Southern Timber we stock Guttapral roofing which has black, green and clear roofing sheet options. Red western cedar shingles are also popular.

The example installation used large sheets of clear toughened glass. When planning the roof with toughened glass it should be remembered it can only be used in sections around 600mm wide (2ft) before it begins to deflect under its own weight.

4. Decking options
Our most popular deckboard is the 38mm x 125mm which is normally available in 11 different lengths from 3.0 metre to 6.0 metre. This choice of lengths gives the option of continuous deckboard lengths for most installations.

Other deckboards include ex-32mm x 125mm dual profile, ex-38mm x 125mm smooth redwood, 21mm x 145mm bangkirai hardwood. Some deck areas are completed with sawn finish boards which provide a more traditional & rustic appearance.

5. Planed and sawn tanalised timbers
Before beginning the project a choice should be made between sawn or planed finished products. Planed products have a smoother finish and being kiln-dried they tend to be more dimensionally stable. Sawn products are lower priced and have a more traditional rustic appearance

Whichever timber finish is elected there is a variety of timber sizes available to complete the project. If sawn timbers are selected for the balustrading rails they can be sanded down for a smoother and more pleasing feel.

6. Balustrading options
For decks where the elevation is under 600mm we can off the Scenic Glass Balustrade, each pack includes 5 tempered glass "balusters" which have bevelled edges and come with 4 stainless steel screws per glass baluster. Each pack should cover 1.0 metres allowing 100mm for the gap between the last baluster & the post

All decking installations where the deck surface is 600mm or greater at the edge of the deck must use an alternative deck spindling system. We can offer advice on this type of installation where required

7. Step construction and stair strings
Step installation can be speeded up by using ready-made stair strings. We carry the choice of 3-tread with a height of 600mm and the 5-tread with a height of approximately 1.0 metre. Alternatively we supply 250mm x 50mm timbers in lengths of 3.6m, 4.8m and 6.0 metre for those who wish to cut their own strings.

The 38mm deckboard is ideal to be used in conjunction with these stair strings. These boards can be used at up to 600mm centres, so for most stair installations 3 strings would be required.

8. Finished installation
The final photo shows the final installation as a light and airy glass covered veranda. Access is via one of two steps and the side elevation shows a nice mix of stone and redwood shiplap cladding.

The long posts used for roof supports have also been integrated into the balustrade which neatly surrounds the elevated decking. The decking level has been built to 600mm to provide similar floor levels to the main house.

The appearance of the finished project can be further enhanced with Sadolin or Ronseal coloured stains.