Herringbone Decking Pattern
There are many interesting and creative ways to apply decking. A zipper pattern involves the intersection of two opposing diagonal decking patterns that combine in the center of the deck in a staggered orientation to present the appearance of a zipper. A hearing bone is a similar pattern that meets without the alternating zipper effect. An octagon can be decked as an offset pattern that follows the shape of the frame. We have even seen parquet deck floors installed by using squares that alternate decking direction.

Any of these patterns will require you to add blocking to the frame below the pattern to provide support and a solid surface to fasten to. When using composite decking you may consider using contrasting colors to add emphasis to the effect. Try to avoid working with small pieces of decking as a part of your design. Butt joints and miter cuts can separate over time and small pieces can loosen and fall out.
10 Tips For Designing A Great Deck
This is an introduction to design. Start here to get some fresh ideas before designing your dream deck this year.
Best House and Deck Color Combinations
Whether you’re adding a deck to your home, repainting your deck, or refreshing the exterior of your home, it’s important to consider all the different design choices you have available to you, so you can choose one that makes your neighbors do a double take (in a good way!)
Grey Composite Decking
Get inspired by our collection of grey composite decking ideas and images. Find the best grey deck designs to fit your home and personal style with Decks.com.
IRC Code Requirements For Decks
Residential properties have certain code requirements that must be met before building a deck known as the IRC. Learn more about IRC building codes for decks at Decks.com!
Questions To Ask Your Deck Contractor
The quest to find the right contractor to complete your decking project can feel overwhelming and stressful. Learn more about what questions you should ask before hiring a contractor on decks.com
Permits for Building a Deck: Why You Need One and How to Get It
Many homeowners are surprised when they are told they need to get a permit in order to build a deck. It may seem like a hassle, but it’s well worth the small investment of time and money to ensure your deck is built to code standards and in compliance with local regulations
More Helpful Resources
Explore Articles by Topic

Footings
Information related to installing frost footings for decks

Framing
Learn structural framing methods

Decking
Learn about wood and composite decking materials

Stairs
An in-depth look at the complex issue of how to build stairs

Railings
How to install guardrails and handrails to meet IRC code

Features
An overview on water drainage, benches, planters and lights

Design
The basics of deck design

Planning
Learn about permits and working with contractors

Porches & Patios
Build a covered deck to enjoy all seasons

Ledger
Proper attachment techniques

Care
Maintain your deck to maintain your investment

Materials
An overview on water drainage, benches, planters and lights
Herringbone Decking Pattern
There are many interesting and creative ways to apply decking. A zipper pattern involves the intersection of two opposing diagonal decking patterns that combine in the center of the deck in a staggered orientation to present the appearance of a zipper. A hearing bone is a similar pattern that meets without the alternating zipper effect. An octagon can be decked as an offset pattern that follows the shape of the frame. We have even seen parquet deck floors installed by using squares that alternate decking direction.

Any of these patterns will require you to add blocking to the frame below the pattern to provide support and a solid surface to fasten to. When using composite decking you may consider using contrasting colors to add emphasis to the effect. Try to avoid working with small pieces of decking as a part of your design. Butt joints and miter cuts can separate over time and small pieces can loosen and fall out.
10 Tips For Designing A Great Deck
This is an introduction to design. Start here to get some fresh ideas before designing your dream deck this year.
How to Build a Raised Deck
Building a raised deck can be a great option for some homeowners. Learn how to build a deck that is elevated above ground level with this guide from Decks.com.
IRC Code Requirements For Decks
Residential properties have certain code requirements that must be met before building a deck known as the IRC. Learn more about IRC building codes for decks at Decks.com!
Building A Deck Over A Septic Tank
Building a deck on or near a septic tank is not the best idea and can result in a damaged or punctured tank. Learn more about building near a septic tank at Decks.com.
Residential PSF Deck Requirements
For a residential deck, the code requires it be designed to support a minimum 40-psf live load. Learn more about how much to put on a deck psf at Decks.com.
Explore Articles by Topic

Footings
Information related to installing frost footings for decks

Framing
Learn structural framing methods

Decking
Learn about wood and composite decking materials

Stairs
An in-depth look at the complex issue of how to build stairs

Railings
How to install guardrails and handrails to meet IRC code

Features
An overview on water drainage, benches, planters and lights

Design
The basics of deck design

Planning
Learn about permits and working with contractors

Porches & Patios
Build a covered deck to enjoy all seasons

Ledger
Proper attachment techniques

Care
Maintain your deck to maintain your investment

Materials
An overview on water drainage, benches, planters and lights