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https://www.askthetrades.co.uk/cgi-bin/yabb/YaBB.pl DIY Forum >> Carpentry Questions >> decking question https://www.askthetrades.co.uk/cgi-bin/yabb/YaBB.pl?num=1148414472 Message started by davidc1075 on May 23^rd, 2006, 9:01pm

Title: decking question
Post by davidc1075 on May 23^rd, 2006, 9:01pm

Can anyone tell me how to build a curve on a deck. I am ok about positioning of the beams joist spacing and posts for the rest of the deck but I don't know how to frame up for a semi circle or curve. How do I bend a board on the vertical face(rise). I understand that I just need to cut the deck boards with a jig saw to create the curve horizontal face (tread) Any help would be appreciated thanks.

Title: Re: decking question
Post by CWatters on May 23^rd, 2006, 9:14pm

I think you use short but thick lengths then cut in the curve. If it needs to be deep you have to bend something like ply around it.....

http://www.taunton.com/finehomebuilding/pages/h00033.asp

The tricky bit is probably the hand rail.

Edit: He's using nails but I think I'd use screws to hold the curved board.

Title: Re: decking question
Post by davidc1075 on May 23^rd, 2006, 9:38pm

Thanks for the reply, so the framing is basically angled with the joists canterleving and cut to the curve. I have seen other decks in the uk with a deck board fitted on the rise so there must be some way to shape it into the curve the only way I can think of would be to make trench cuts on the back of the board. There must be a way to do it here's hoping someone knows how.

Title: Re: decking question
Post by WOLF on May 23^rd, 2006, 10:03pm

Firstly , welcome to the forum dear chap!!!
kerf cuts to the rear of the board are one way to go, i do know of one particular contracter that actually has a home built "steamer" to allow the timber to be bent!! but for a one of, that is aggro and expense you can do with out!!!
you can also wet the board/soak it for a while prior to installing, as it will aid in fitting/bending!!!
screws are a definate,nails in decking, unless ring shanked (ridged nails-incase you are wondering!!) are really not adviseable!!!
the above by CW is pretty good advise!!

and i hope your deck turns out ok!!
matt!

Title: Re: decking question
Post by davidc1075 on May 23^rd, 2006, 10:49pm

will be fitting it at the weekend, will be using screws for the deck boards and will leave the plank out so I am sure it will get rather wet if this weather keeps up. Will let you know how I get on. Dave

Title: Re: decking question
Post by CWatters on May 24^th, 2006, 12:19am

One of the captions on the photos says...

"The author met the challenge of a tightly curved rim joist by laminating three layers of 1/2-in. pressure-treated plywood onto the joist ends with plenty of construction adhesive, clamps and careful nailing."

I'm not sure how easy it is to bend 1/2" marine plywood. I know you can get bendy ply for indoor use. Is there an outdoor version?

Title: Re: decking question
Post by WOLF on May 24^th, 2006, 1:02am

not as such, you have to kerf the back and make your own!!! typical!

Title: Re: decking question
Post by mr_spanton on May 24^th, 2006, 9:55pm

Off topic replies have been moved to This Thread by woodsmith.