Ways to lay your composite decking
When it comes to installing composite decking, there’s more than one way to lay your deck boards. By choosing a different decking pattern, you can create a totally different look for your installation. Read on see what options are available – from the most simple to lay down, to the more complex. We hope you get some inspiration for your next decking project!
Single width patterns
This is the traditional way of installing decking with the boards uniformly laid, usually running parallel to your home / building. Although traditional, this design is timeless and creates a seamless, fluid finish to your decked area.
Picture frame pattern
This decking technique provides a perfect frame finish for any design of decking, If you use a reversible style of deck board, such as our Signature AT ribbed and grooved collection, you can use the grooved side for one section and the ribbed for the other, making the frame really stand out. Or you could chose to use two different colours of board, such as our light Smokey Grey and dark Granite Grey Evolution capped decking collection, for a stylish, contemporary look.
Transition boards
Transition boards run between sections of decking and are placed perpendicular to these boards to create contrast. Although a simple addition to your decking, these transition boards can be as subtle or striking as you want.
Using the same deck boards will create an understated, refined finish, whereas different coloured or textured boards will add an eye-catching contrast.
Diagonal run design
Laying your deck boards diagonally can create an entirely different aesthetic. To achieve this look, you simply need to lay your deck boards at a 45° angle across the joists. This design works particularly well when finished with a picture frame.
You can also add diagonal boards to a single width design to create a focal point e.g inlay a diagonal centre point to your decking.
Herringbone pattern
The herringbone pattern resembles the bows of a boat or the bone structure of a fish – hence the name! Whilst creating a beautifully unique decked area, it is one of the more challenging designs to install! The main reason is because it requires much more sub frame as support, meaning it will increase the cost of your joists and beams and also take up to three times as long to fit.
If you’re considering this design, it’s a good idea to enlist the help of a professional decking installer to complete the job.
Chevron laying pattern
A chevron pattern is very similar to that of a herringbone, with both having a V shape design when complete. However, unlike the herringbone pattern which features overlapped boards, a chevron design does not. Again, this is a more expensive and time-consuming pattern to install, but the hard work is worth it and will result in a stunning, stylish deck.
Patchwork / parquet pattern
This is also a difficult pattern to lay, but looks great – particularly on large decked areas. The patchwork design can be very striking and you could look to use different finishes or colours for different patches of decking.
If you need some inspiration for your new decked area, call our team of experts today on 01978 667 840 for an informal chat or email enquiries@ecodek.co.uk.