🖼️
The project:
This project was a chance to create something lasting while giving recycled Merbau a second life. I built the deck myself from the ground up, taking the time to clean, restore and carefully lay each board. It was a rewarding challenge that taught me new skills and transformed an unused part of our backyard into a space where family and friends can relax together. Seeing reclaimed timber become the feature of our outdoor area is something I'm really proud of.
- Materials:
- Recycled 140mm Merbau decking
- Step 1:
1. Demolished and removed the existing deck, disposing of all old materials responsibly. Cleared and levelled the site, removing vegetation, debris and any unsuitable material.
- Step 2:
2. Set out the new deck footprint using string lines to ensure accurate dimensions and square corners.
- Step 3:
3. Dug the footing locations to the required depth. Poured concrete footings and allowed them to cure before commencing construction.
- Step 4:
4. Installed the structural posts, bearers and joists, checking levels, alignment and spacing throughout.
- Step 5:
5. Sourced recycled Merbau decking boards and removed old fixings, cleaned each board and prepared the timber for reuse.
- Step 6:
6. Cut each decking board to size and laid them individually, maintaining consistent spacing and fixing them securely to the frame using concealed fixings wherever possible.
- Step 7:
7. Trimmed the deck edges and completed all finishing details.
- Step 8:
8. Filled the existing screw holes with merbau filler.
- Step 9:
9. Sanded the entire deck to create a smooth, even finish while bringing out the natural character of the recycled timber.
- Step 10:
10. Applied multiple coats of decking oil to protect the timber and enhance its colour and grain. Final clean-up, transforming the space into a durable outdoor area for our family to enjoy.
