How many decking screws per m²?

25-35 screws per m² for boards at 400mm joist centres with two screws per intersection. A 4m x 3m deck at 12m² needs roughly 300-400 screws — buy a 500 tub.

Deck sizeScrews neededPractical buy
4m × 3m (12 m²)300-420 screwsBuy 500 tub
5m × 4m (20 m²)500-700 screwsBuy 1000 tub
6m × 4m (24 m²)600-840 screwsBuy 1000 tub
3m × 3m (9 m²)225-315 screwsBuy 500 tub

Why two screws per joist intersection?

Two screws per board width per joist stops cupping and lifting. One screw lets the board twist as it seasons; two hold it flat.

Stainless or coated screws?

Stainless (A2 at minimum, A4 near coast) for timber. For composite, use the manufacturer's coloured composite screws — coated screws can react with composite cores.

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Buy the materials

Decking screws 500-1000 tubAmazon.co.ukStainless A2 decking screwsAmazon.co.ukScrew driver bits (T-Deck/Torx)Amazon.co.uk

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