Decking Base

Unboxing

What's inside your delivery.

Here you'll find a complete list of all the components for your GeoDomeXL Decking Base. Use this list as a reference to confirm you have all parts before beginning assembly. Should you find any missing or damaged components, please get in touch with us so we can arrange replacements.

Tools you will need

Tape Measure

Spirit Level

Drill/Electric Screwdriver

Assembly

How to build your base.

This guide walks you through the entire assembly process of your GeoDomeXL Decking Base. Each step outlines the required actions, necessary components, and useful tips to make assembly as straightforward as possible. If you need assistance during the process, feel free to reach out—we're always happy to help guide you through it.

Step by step guidance

1

Start by laying out four joists to form a square frame. Two will sit on the outside edges, and two will fit inside at the ends of the outer joists. This means the external joists are continuous in length, while the internal ones fit between them, making the frame slightly longer in one dimension.

2

Once the joists are in place, ensure the ends are flush and aligned. Butt joint the joists to connect them, inserting the long screws to secure them together.

3

Before proceeding, make sure the frame is square. You can do this by measuring both diagonals—if they are equal, the frame is square and ready for the next step.

4

After the square frame is built, install three joists inside the frame. These internal joists should all run in the same direction and sit inside the two external joists that are mounted on the outside.

5

Use the spacer (long side) to ensure consistent gaps between the joists, ensuring even spacing for structural integrity.

6

Once the joists are properly spaced, use more of the long screws to secure them into place.

7

Repeat steps 1 to 6 until you have 9 frame squares.

8

Position all nine frame squares to make up a big square ensuring all the internal joists line up in the same direction.

9

Attach all the squares together using two medium screws, top and bottom, between each joist. Space screws evenly on the connection where the internal joists don't meet.

10

You now have a complete frame.

11

Lay the decking boards on top of the joists. Ensure that they sit flush and are evenly spaced across the frame. Use the spacer (thin side) between each decking board to maintain even gaps.

12

Secure the decking boards with two screws on each side where they meet a joist. Continue until all decking boards are screwed down.

13

If installing on flat, level ground (such as patios, concrete, or similar surfaces), place the membrane underneath the frame and position the decking directly onto the surface.

14

If installing on sloped or uneven soft ground (such as grass, gravel, or similar surfaces), place the membrane under the risers. Evenly space the risers beneath the frame to lift and level the base. Adjust the risers by twisting them up or down until the base is completely level.

Note: Step requires purchase of optional extra Decking Base Risers available via our website.

Your assembly is now complete. The decking is made from treated boards, but if you wish to customize or paint your base, now is the perfect time. Otherwise, your base is ready for you to assemble the GeoDomeX on top.

Aftercare

How to look after your base.

Looking after your Decking Base is simple, with little maintenance needed over the years. This section provides you with all you need to know regarding cleaning and caring for your base, ensuring it lasts you for many years to come.

Cleaning

To maintain the appearance and longevity of the decking, clean it periodically by sweeping away debris, dirt, and leaves. If you feel it needs a deeper clean, use a mild detergent mixed with water and scrub the surface with a soft-bristle brush or mop. You could also give it a light pressure wash if preferred.

Protection

The Decking Base is designed to withstand outdoor conditions, including rain and moisture. The weed membrane provided should be positioned underneath the decking base to help prevent weed growth while allowing water to drain naturally. While the membrane doesn't block water, it helps maintain a clean, stable foundation. For best results, keep the area around the base free from leaves or debris and ensure there's some natural drainage to avoid water pooling for long periods.

Customisation

The base pieces are made from FSC-certified pressure-treated timber, offering up to 15 years of protection against decay and insects. However, if you apply a stain, varnish or paint to the decking this may need to be periodically reapplied to maintain its appearance and provide additional protection.

Storing or relocating

If you need to relocate the base, it can be disassembled by unscrewing the decking boards and joists and reassembling in your new chosen location. Alternatively, with enough people, you can carefully lift the frame, taking care not to damage the joists or the boards and move it its new position as a fully assembled unit.

Damaged boards

If for any reason one of your decking boards becomes damaged, you can easily replace individual boards without needing to disassemble the entire structure. Simply unscrew the damaged board and replace it with a new one, ensuring it fits securely in the existing frame maintaining enough space either side to account for potential expansion. This makes maintaining the decking base simple and hassle-free.