How to Construct Wooden Walkways

Building the Frame

• 1

  Cut two pieces of 2-by-6 treated lumber 32 inches long for each 8-foot section, using a miter saw to ensure a good square cut. Drill two pilot holes through each piece, 3/4 inch in from each end, and 1 inch in from the corner using a cordless drill and a 1/8-inch wood bit.

• 2

  Use a tape measure to locate the center of each piece and drill a hole 1 inch in from each long edge at the center.

• 3

  Position three 8-foot 2-by-6 pieces on edge parallel to each each other, with the two outside pieces 32 inches apart from outside edge to outside edge. Center the third piece between the outside pieces. Using two 3-inch treated deck screws, screw one of the 32-inch pieces to each end of each 8-foot 2-by-6 through the pilot holes.

Installing the Decking

• 4

  Measure and cut 17 pieces of 5/4-by-6 treated decking boards at 32 inches long for each section. Start from one end and fit a deck board flush with the outside end board. Screw it to the three 8-foot 2-by-6s, using two 1 5/8-inch treated deck screws into each 2-by-6 through the deck board.

• 5

  Fit the next deck board against the first and continue adding one board at a time, screwing them down in the same way. Leave the gap at the end uncovered. Build as many sections of walkway as you need. Measure and build one short section at the end to cover any remaining distance.

• 6

  Position 12-inch square and 1 1/2-inch thick patio blocks under each corner of each section to support them and prevent them from sinking in. Cut an extra 32-inch piece of decking for each joint. Fit the sections together with the spaced ends matching. Attach the extra piece of decking to both walkway sections to anchor them together, using the same size screws you used for the other deck boards.