Things You'll Need:
- Shovel
- Gravel
- Pressure treated 2 x 4s
- Wood or metal stakes
- Composite deck boards
- Galvanized nails
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Step 1
Remove any loose sod from the area where you are going to build your boardwalk. Then dig down a 2-inches deep and remove the soil.
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Step 2
Fill the area that you just dug out with gravel. This will allow for appropriate drainage under your walkway.
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Step 3
Lay pressure treated 2 x 4s along the edge on either side of the boardwalk. Stagger the joints on the opposing sides so they do not line up with each other. These are your side supporting rails.
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Step 4
Connect the 2 side rails with cross rails by laying 2 x 4s across the width of the walkway. These pieces should be laid at intervals of no more then 2 feet. If you are making a boardwalk that is wider then 2 feet, space your cross rails at 18 inches or less.
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Step 5
Drive wood or metal stakes along the inside edge of each side rail. This will provide stability for your boardwalk and keep it from shifting after you build it.
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Step 6
Place composite deck boards on top of the rails. Leave a 1/8-inch space between each board for water drainage.
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Step 7
Attach the deck boards to the rails using galvanized nails or 3-inch deck screws.
