Cooking outdoors with your composite decking space
Do you love spending time outdoors with friends and family, cooking your meals in the open air? Then a composite decking area for outdoor cooking could be the perfect addition to your home. With its durability, low maintenance, and eco-friendly features, composite decking is an excellent choice for your outdoor cooking area.
Here are the steps you need to follow to create a composite decking area for outdoor cooking.
Plan Your Space
Before you start creating your composite decking area, you need to plan it out properly. We’ve all heard it before, “fail to plan, plan to fail” First, you need to decide where the area will be located, and how much space you will need. Consider the size of your grill, smoker, or outdoor kitchen, and add enough space around it for easy movement. Think about your cooking style and what other features you want to include in your outdoor cooking area. For example, do you need space for a dining table, chairs, or a lounge area? Do you want to include any additional features such as an outdoor bar or refrigerator? Once you have a clear idea of what you want, draw up a detailed plan with accurate measurements.
Choose Your Composite Decking Material
Choosing the right composite decking material is crucial to the success of your project. There are many options available on the market, but not all of them are suitable for outdoor cooking areas. When choosing your decking material, make sure that it is designed specifically for outdoor use and can withstand harsh weather conditions. Look for decking materials that are resistant to mold, mildew, and fading. Composite decking materials are also available in a wide range of colours, textures, and finishes, so you can choose the one that matches your aesthetic preferences.
Prepare the Area
Once you have planned out your space and selected your decking material, it’s time to prepare the area. First, clear the area of any existing structures or debris. Then, level the ground, and create a solid foundation for your decking area. You can do this by adding a layer of crushed stone, gravel, or sand to create a base. You can also use a weed barrier fabric to prevent weeds from growing through the decking. If necessary, you can also add a retaining wall or other landscaping features to prevent soil erosion.
Build Your Decking Frame
With the area prepared, it’s time to start building the frame for your decking area. The frame is the skeleton that supports the decking material and creates a sturdy base for your outdoor cooking area. You can use pressure-treated lumber for the frame, as it is resistant to rot and decay. Make sure that the frame is level and square and secure it to the ground using metal stakes. If you are building a multi-level decking area, make sure to install supports for each level.
Install Your Decking Material
Once the frame is in place, it’s time to install the composite decking material. Start at one end of the decking area and work your way across, making sure to leave a small gap between each board for expansion and contraction. Use hidden fasteners or screws to attach the decking material to the frame. At Deckorum we offer a 3mm and 6mm Fastening clip option that allows for expansion and contraction.
Add the Finishing Touches
With your composite decking area in place, it’s time to add the finishing touches. You can add railings or balustrades to provide safety and a finished look. You can also add lighting, outdoor furniture, or a pergola to create a comfortable and inviting space.