Step by step: How to build a wooden terrace

Building your own wooden deck can be a rewarding project that not only increases the value of your home, but also provides a wonderful place for relaxation and social gatherings. In this comprehensive guide, based on Betterwood's expert knowledge and the professional rules of deck construction, we'll walk you through every step of the process.

1. Planning and design

• Determination of needs: Think about how you want to use your terrace. Do you need a dining area, a lounge area or space for a barbecue? Are there inspection hatches that need to be provided? terrace calculator from Betterwood you can create an initial material calculation. If you already have the dimensions of the intended area, you can use the terrace planner Betterwood can also provide you with an offer including an installation plan.
• Selection of wood: Different types of wood such as teak, cumaru or garapa each have their own characteristics. Consider factors such as weather resistance, maintenance requirements and aesthetics. With the Decision support from Betterwood for a type of wood, the choice becomes easier.
• Design and layout: Plan the size and shape of your terrace. Think about elements such as Stairs and steps, railings and possibly integrated seating.

2. material procurement

• Quality control: When purchasing materials, pay attention to quality seals and proof of origin.
• Accessories and tools: In addition to wooden floorboards, you will also need screws, fastening material, tools and possibly a substructure. In our guide, we have provided you with a Requirements list for your convenience.

3. Preparation of the substrate

• Leveling and compacting: The ground must be level and solid. Remove grass and do not loosen the soil. But make sure there is good drainage. You can find out how to build on which ground in our Guide to substrates.
• Substructure: A stable substructure is crucial for the longevity of your terrace. Use Substructure wood, which has the same durability as the covering.

4. Laying the floorboards

• Correct installation: A wooden terrace should be well ventilated so that it can dry out properly at any time and is not permanently damp. The following are therefore crucial for the longevity of the terrace: Construction height of the terrace, joint spacing between the planks and distances to solid building structures as well as additional ventilation for cladding.
• Attachment: Use rust-proof screws and ensure a clean and secure connection to the substructure and a maximum screw spacing of 50 cm for hardwood. Otherwise the risk of loss is too high. Visible or concealed screwing is possible. Our Comparison makes the decision easier.
  
• Avoid those typical errors when building terraces.

5. Surface treatment and care

• Protective treatment: To prevent cracks and loss of color, oil the planks. The cut edges should be treated with end edge wax to protect against end cracks.
  
• Regular maintenance: Clean After the winter, regularly clean your terrace with a terrace cleaner to prevent slipperiness and dirt and freshen up the boards with terrace oil if you don't want the wood to turn grey.

6. Safety aspects and legal provisions

• Building regulations: Find out about local building regulations and permits. Rules vary from state to state
• Health and Safety: Make sure that all structural elements are stable and safe, that span widths are maintained and that the bolting is carried out according to the rules.

Terrace guide and personal advice