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Installing Decking for a Floating Deck

Marc McCollough

By Marc McCollough
Updated May 21, 2024

With the frame complete, you’re ready for the decking. This final part of our How to Build a Floating Deck series takes you step by step through the process of installing composite deck boards. Then we’ll suggest some finishing touches to get your new deck ready for relaxation.

Skill

Intermediate

Time

One Weekend

A floating deck with brown composite decking built near a backyard wood panel fence.

Tools and Materials

Tools

Materials

Note

Product costs, availability and item numbers may vary online or by market.

Why Use Composite Decking?

For this project, we’re using composite decking rather than treated wood decking boards. Composite boards are a low-maintenance alternative to wood decking. They have the appearance of wood but are made with recycled material. This water-resistant decking also resists mold and stains but doesn’t require sealing or painting. See our Deck Planning and Materials Guide to learn about different types of decking.

Caution

Wear eye protection, hearing protection and a dust mask when cutting lumber or composite material. Follow the tool manufacturer's instructions for use and safety.

Good to Know

This is the third and final part of our How to Build a Floating Deck series. To watch the decking installation, see the decking portion of our floating deck video. To learn how to plan the deck and to watch a video of the entire project, see the first part of the series, Planning a Floating Deck. To learn how to build the deck frame, see part two, Framing a Floating Deck.

Installing the Decking

A man holding a composite deck board, showing how a hidden fastener fits into a groove on the edge.

The boards we’re using have a groove along each edge that allows you to use concealed fastener clips to secure them to the frame. These hidden deck clips will give the deck surface a clean look and set a drainage gap between the deck boards.

Good to Know

The decking might require an expansion gap along the perimeter. Follow the installation instructions for your decking.

Instructions

Finishing Touches

The completed composite deck with patio furniture, an outdoor rug and container plants.

With the deck complete, you can begin dressing it up. We added a table and chairs to create a comfortable and inviting place for the family to gather. You can also consider adding umbrellas, an outdoor rug and even outdoor lighting to get the most out of your deck, day or night. Don’t forget to have a grill or smoker nearby for the family barbecue.