- 1). Measure the width of the deck plank. Divide this measurement by three. For example, if the plank is 3 inches wide, then 3 / 3 = 1. Divide this result by two: 1 / 2 = 1/2. This means that two holes on each end of the deck plank should be centered 1 inch from the sides and 1/2 inch from the end of the plank. Mark these locations on each deck plank.
- 2). Measure the height of the beams from the top of the beam downward toward the bottom of the boat. Divide this measurement by 4. Add the thickness of the planking to this result. If the planking is 1/2 inch thick and the beam is 8 inches in height, then 8 / 4 = 2, plus 1/2 = 2 1/2, the length of the screws you will need.
- 3). Set the plank in place on the two beams it will span and check the placement to ensure it's correct: each beam will support two planks placed end-to-end. This means that a correctly placed plank will occupy slightly less than 1/2 the width of the beam supporting it, and nearly touch the plank or bulwark next to it. Clamp both ends of the plank to the beams with woodworkers' bar clamps. Drill holes in the plank and beam with a a countersink drill bit to a depth of 2 1/8 inches.
- 4). Use a round file to smooth the countersunk part of the drill hole. Screw the deck plank to the beam using wood screws, 2 1/2 inches in length.
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