How can a deck pattern save me money?

#1 Transition Board
#2 Picture Frame
#3 Patchwork (Parquet)
#4 Herringbone
#5 Chevron w/Transition Board
#6 ATX Pattern
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We would all love a deck that is both beautiful and unique. And, there are
plenty of board patterns that can be used on your next deck, but did you
know some patterns can actually save you money without a lot of extra time?!

?
The short answer: shorts. Most decks are built with 16 and 20 foot
boards, but those popular lengths come at a premium price. Using shorter
length boards (8-14 foot) can save you up to $2.35 per square foot,
sometimes more if you’re using a hardwood like ipe. That means on an
average sized deck (430 sq. ft.) you could save $1,011 by using shorts!

To help you save money on your next project, we’ve put together six great
patterns that primarily use shorter length boards.

Disclaimer: Deck patterns and framing systems are not to scale. The exact measurements of your project will vary based on the product or species you’re using. We’re not responsible for
any issues associated with these patterns or frames, so make sure your measurements are right before building your deck! TimberTown
DECKING • HARDWOODS • SPECIALTY LUMBER
 5

Difficulty: Easy
Want to keep it simple? Here’s a subtle twist on the traditional deck pattern. By using
a transition board running perpendicular to the rest of the deck you can break up the
monotony plus use shorter board lengths. This pattern is also perfect for creating separation
between different areas of the deck. Looking for something a little more interesting? Try using
a different colored product or stain for the transition board.

Expert Tip
When using a framing span of 16” on center, use two transition boards and you won’t have to
change the span in the middle. Simply place bracing where the transition boards will go and
they will cover the span leaving a slight overhang for the perpendicular boards (see pattern +
framing overlap example).

premiums VS shorts
430 Square Foot Ipe Deck*
1x6x16 1x6x8
$4,436 $3,425
Shorts Save You $1,011!
(THAT’S 23% OFF)

*Based on current ipe pricing of $4.39 a lineal foot for 16 ft. and $3.39 a lineal foot for 8 ft. boards. Savings will vary depending on species.
Disclaimer: Deck patterns and framing systems are not to scale. The exact measurements of your project will vary based on the product or species you’re using. We’re not responsible for
any issues associated with these patterns or frames, so make sure your measurements are right before building your deck! TimberTown
DECKING • HARDWOODS • SPECIALTY LUMBER
 6
Transition Board Pattern

Pattern Example
16x10 Foot Deck

Pattern Tip
Use a different colored product or
stain for the transition boards to
get an unique look.

Framing Example
Span = 16” On Center

Framing Tip
When using a framing span of
16” on center, use two transition
boards and you won’t have to
change the span in the middle.
 7
Transition Board Pattern
Pattern + Framing Overlap

Disclaimer: Deck patterns and framing systems are not to scale. The exact measurements of your project will vary based on the product or species you’re using. We’re not responsible for
any issues associated with these patterns or frames, so make sure your measurements are right before building your deck! TimberTown
DECKING • HARDWOODS • SPECIALTY LUMBER
 9

Difficulty: Easy
Take the transition board pattern to the next level by adding a picture frame around the edge
of the deck. By adding a little extra framing you can create a custom look for your project
while saving money in the process. Using a different colored product or stain for the frame is
another added touch.

Expert Tip
Using two transition boards with two framing boards can bring uniformity to the deck and
looks great! We recommend cutting the picture frame corners at a 45 degree angle, just don’t
forget to add an extra brace under the joint (see framing example)

premiums VS shorts
500 Square Foot Ipe Deck*
1x6x16 1x6x8
$5,158 $3,983
Shorts Save You $1,175!
(THAT’S 23% OFF)

*Based on current ipe pricing of $4.39 a lineal foot for 16 ft. and $3.39 a lineal foot for 8 ft. boards. Savings will vary depending on species.
Disclaimer: Deck patterns and framing systems are not to scale. The exact measurements of your project will vary based on the product or species you’re using. We’re not responsible for
any issues associated with these patterns or frames, so make sure your measurements are right before building your deck! TimberTown
DECKING • HARDWOODS • SPECIALTY LUMBER
 10
Picture Frame Pattern

Pattern Example
16x10 Foot Deck

Pattern Tip
Use two transition boards with two
picture frame boards for an eye-
catching outdoor space.

Framing Example
Span = 16” On Center

Framing Tip
You only need extra framing on
the right and left sides of the deck
to cover the perpendicular picture
frame boards.
 11
Picture Frame Pattern
Pattern + Framing Overlap

Disclaimer: Deck patterns and framing systems are not to scale. The exact measurements of your project will vary based on the product or species you’re using. We’re not responsible for
any issues associated with these patterns or frames, so make sure your measurements are right before building your deck! TimberTown
DECKING • HARDWOODS • SPECIALTY LUMBER
 13

Difficulty: Moderate
An expanded version of the once popular parquet flooring, this Patchwork deck pattern is
perfect for using shorts on your project. With a little extra framing this pattern creates an
incredible look, especially on decks with large surface areas. If you’re feeling creative, use a
different colored product or species on some squares for added pattern options.

Expert Tip
Board widths vary between products and species (usually between 5 ⅜” and 5 ⅝”) so before
you create your framing for the squares measure the widths of your boards. This way you can
frame the squares to fit a set number of boards exactly.

premiums VS shorts
650 Square Foot Ipe Deck*
1x6x16 1x6x8
$6,705 $5,178
Shorts Save You $1,527!
(THAT’S 23% OFF)

*Based on current ipe pricing of $4.39 a lineal foot for 16 ft. and $3.39 a lineal foot for 8 ft. boards. Savings will vary depending on species.
Disclaimer: Deck patterns and framing systems are not to scale. The exact measurements of your project will vary based on the product or species you’re using. We’re not responsible for
any issues associated with these patterns or frames, so make sure your measurements are right before building your deck! TimberTown
DECKING • HARDWOODS • SPECIALTY LUMBER
 14
Patchwork Pattern

Pattern Example
16x12 Foot Deck (4x4 Squares)

Pattern Tip
Try using different color squares to
create a custom and unique look.

Framing Example
Span = 24” On Center

Framing Tip
Make sure you offset the horizontal
joists so they support the proper
boards (see overlap example).
 15
Patchwork Pattern
Pattern + Framing Overlap

Disclaimer: Deck patterns and framing systems are not to scale. The exact measurements of your project will vary based on the product or species you’re using. We’re not responsible for
any issues associated with these patterns or frames, so make sure your measurements are right before building your deck! TimberTown
DECKING • HARDWOODS • SPECIALTY LUMBER
 17

Difficulty: Moderate
The Herringbone looks like a chevron pattern, but it requires fewer angled cuts. By taking
short boards and placing them at a 45 degree angle, you can create a stunning look that sets
your project apart. Don’t forget that placing boards at an angle requires you to shorten your
framing span.

Expert Tip
Along with shortening your span to accommodate diagonal boards, you’ll need to double (or
triple) up your joists at each joint to add stability to your deck. To ensure your pattern looks
uniform, frame the deck first then measure and cut each deck board as you place them so
they fit correctly each time.

premiums VS shorts
800 Square Foot Ipe Deck*
1x6x16 1x6x8
$8,253 $6,373
Shorts Save You $1,880!
(THAT’S 23% OFF)

*Based on current ipe pricing of $4.39 a lineal foot for 16 ft. and $3.39 a lineal foot for 8 ft. boards. Savings will vary depending on species.
Disclaimer: Deck patterns and framing systems are not to scale. The exact measurements of your project will vary based on the product or species you’re using. We’re not responsible for
any issues associated with these patterns or frames, so make sure your measurements are right before building your deck! TimberTown
DECKING • HARDWOODS • SPECIALTY LUMBER
 18
Herringbone Pattern

Pattern Example
18x10 Foot Deck

Pattern Tip
The best way to lay this pattern is
one layer at a time across the width
of the deck. This will make it easier
to measure and cut each board.

Framing Example
Span = 12” On Center

Framing Tip
Use 2-3 joists at the board joints
so you have more options for
fastening and added board
stability.
 19
Herringbone Pattern
Pattern + Framing Overlap

Disclaimer: Deck patterns and framing systems are not to scale. The exact measurements of your project will vary based on the product or species you’re using. We’re not responsible for
any issues associated with these patterns or frames, so make sure your measurements are right before building your deck! TimberTown
DECKING • HARDWOODS • SPECIALTY LUMBER
 21

Difficulty: Moderate
You may have seen a deck with a chevron or angled pattern before, but adding transition
boards opens a world of possibilities. The transition boards make the pattern options endless
while still allowing you to use shorts. Carry a chevron pattern across the whole deck, or use
straight boards in some sections. You can also choose a different colored product or stain for
the transition boards for a truly custom project.

Expert Tip
The same principles apply as the basic Transition Board pattern, but you’ll need to shorten
the framing spans to account for the diagonal boards.

premiums VS shorts
1000 Square Foot Ipe Deck*
1x6x16 1x6x8
$10,316 $7,966
Shorts Save You $2,350!
(THAT’S 23% OFF)

*Based on current ipe pricing of $4.39 a lineal foot for 16 ft. and $3.39 a lineal foot for 8 ft. boards. Savings will vary depending on species.
Disclaimer: Deck patterns and framing systems are not to scale. The exact measurements of your project will vary based on the product or species you’re using. We’re not responsible for
any issues associated with these patterns or frames, so make sure your measurements are right before building your deck! TimberTown
DECKING • HARDWOODS • SPECIALTY LUMBER
 22
Chevron w/Transition Board Pattern

Pattern Example
19x10 Foot Deck

Pattern Tip
Using a different color for the
transition boards breaks up the
pattern nicely.

Framing Example
Span = 12” On Center
(16” On Center for Transition Boards)

Framing Tip
Use a 16” On Center span for the
transition board framing when
using two transition boards.
 23
Chevron w/Transition Board Pattern

Pattern + Framing Overlap

Disclaimer: Deck patterns and framing systems are not to scale. The exact measurements of your project will vary based on the product or species you’re using. We’re not responsible for
any issues associated with these patterns or frames, so make sure your measurements are right before building your deck! TimberTown
DECKING • HARDWOODS • SPECIALTY LUMBER
 25

Difficulty: Advanced
Looking for more of a challenge? Our deck experts at TimberTown Austin designed a one-of-
a-kind pattern using only shorts: we call it the ATX Pattern. Drawing from the eclectic roots of
Austin, TX, this pattern is sure to drop some jaws. Perfect for large commercial or residential
projects, the ATX creates a seamless pattern so it can cover any size area beautifully. Use a
different colored product or stain for the center inserts and you’ve got an outdoor space like
no other.

Expert Tip
This deck pattern is not for the faint of heart, we recommend only experienced deck builders
take on the ATX. For those brave enough, remember the framing is heavily dependent on the
deck board width, so measure your decking before building the frame.

premiums VS shorts
1500 Square Foot Ipe Deck*
1x6x16 1x6x8
$15,474 $11,949
Shorts Save You $3,525!
(THAT’S 23% OFF)

*Based on current ipe pricing of $4.39 a lineal foot for 16 ft. and $3.39 a lineal foot for 8 ft. boards. Savings will vary depending on species.
Disclaimer: Deck patterns and framing systems are not to scale. The exact measurements of your project will vary based on the product or species you’re using. We’re not responsible for
any issues associated with these patterns or frames, so make sure your measurements are right before building your deck! TimberTown
DECKING • HARDWOODS • SPECIALTY LUMBER
 26
ATX Pattern

Pattern Example
21x15 Foot Deck

Pattern Tip
Because of it’s seamless design,
this pattern will look incredible on
large surface area decks (larger
than 500 sq. ft.).

Framing Example
Span = 13” On Center (Estimate)

Framing Tip
The framing spans will vary based
on your board width. Make sure
you measure your boards before
you build out the frame.
 27
ATX Pattern
Pattern + Framing Overlap

Disclaimer: Deck patterns and framing systems are not to scale. The exact measurements of your project will vary based on the product or species you’re using. We’re not responsible for
any issues associated with these patterns or frames, so make sure your measurements are right before building your deck! TimberTown
DECKING • HARDWOODS • SPECIALTY LUMBER
 28

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