By Kelin
Fri, Apr 17, 2026

How to Add a Frame to Your Deck?

Composite decking is a great way to make your home look better. Installing picture frames is a great way to make composite decking look better. It is a method of installing border boards around the perimeter of the deck. Some people call it breadboarding or border installation. Here are some tips from the pros on how to properly install a photo frame for your deck.

Installing composite decking is not difficult, but it is much easier if you know what to do and have the right tools. If you want to use the same boards for both the main deck and the picture frame deck, you can choose composite decking boards in the same color. You can even choose composite decking boards in different colors and finishes for the deck to make it stand out.

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Table of Contents

Deck Framing Layout Suitable for Composite Decking

First, you need to decide how far the framed decking boards are going to extend out of the frame. This will show where the inside of the border will be. This is the most important information you need to have. You need to know this before you do anything else.

All deck boards and steps should have a 1-inch overhang. Mark the outside of each corner of the frame (or cut it off if the deck has been trimmed) and subtract 1 inch from the width of the deck. Let’s say you’re measuring a 5-1/2-inch board that needs to measure 4 1/2 inches back.

Put the boards together and then use chalk to draw lines across the entire deck. Then you’re ready for the next step.

Don’t Forget the Deck Railing

Carrying out a deck project may not be that simple. Next, you need to deal with the posts for the deck railing. In most cases, these posts are right inside the deck framing, which is where your border is going to be placed.

The border should fall at least halfway between the posts. This will make it easier to cut notches in the wood around the border and posts.

The worst-case scenario is when the post falls inside the border. At that point, you will need to cut a hole in the wood and slide it over the post. If you’re trying to cut multiple posts on the same board, those posts may bend a bit.

In this case, things can get bad very quickly. If you need to make tight cuts around finished posts, you will struggle. It will be almost impossible.

To solve this problem, many skilled builders use shorter picture frame trim boards. This reduces the number of complicated cuts on each board. The planks can be slotted around the deck posts and the picture frame planks can be made from shorter wood floors.

Combining both of these methods is another way to deal with posts located in the middle of picture frame deck boards. Cut a hole in the center of the picture frame deck board so that it can fit over the post in the middle. Then, cut slots in the ends of the picture frame deck board so that it can be set over the other posts.

Setting Up the Deck Picture Frame

Once you know the layout of the deck, it’s time to lay out some boards. Different people have different ideas about how to start.

Some people think that you should place the deck boards inside the picture frame first and then secure the entire border. Some people think it’s best to start by laying out all the decorative boards, leaving a gap at each end. Then draw a line on the trim boards, cut off the ends, and secure the border to the trim boards.

We can use a mixture of methods. There can be many variations in the shape and layout of the deck. But for the sake of simplicity, let’s say we’re building a rectangular deck with borders on all four sides.

Leave the side close to the house so that the final trim boards can be removed.
Set up and attach the borders on one side and the outside edge. Cut one end of the outside border (picture frame) at a 45-degree angle so that its short point is on the line you drew earlier.
Keep the other side unclipped.
Begin laying the batten from the outside in, making sure that the batten fits snugly into the side border and leaves some space around the outside border.
As you lay to the other side, cut the first plank laid on the line where it breaks so that it is flush with the beveled corner of the side frame.
Lay the last plank a few inches from where you want it to end up.
Repeat this until the last plank.
Cut this plank to the right length, following the line you drew earlier.
Then, cut the last plank to fit the house.
Cut the last plank at a 45-degree angle so that the short end is flush with the edge of the previous plank.

Making the Final Deck Cuts

Now it’s time to make the final cuts to the ends of the deck boards that were intentionally left long. Using chalk, draw a line between the two short points of the edge or between the cuts you just made between the posts. This is where you will make your cuts.

For a straight cut, it’s best to use a track saw or a circular saw with a guide. If you’re sure of yourself, draw by hand.

This is why it’s important to cut the boards around the posts and the first and last boards to the right length. This way you can see straight through without having to cut the corners close to the finished blocks. You will most likely need to cut off a corner. The rotary multi-tool is perfect for this job.

All that’s left to do is to cut the last piece of edge and fit it on. You can measure from one long point to another because it’s easier and you don’t have to go around the post. You can intentionally measure a little too long so you have room to change direction if needed.

Cut and mark the posts. It’s best to cut less in order to allow room for alterations. Once it’s okay, make final adjustments to the end joints and tighten them to the ground. Finally, you can enjoy your results.

Summarize

If you follow these steps, you should be able to install a picture frame deck like a pro. Before you begin, make sure you have the right decking materials. Also, know how to install the deck boards for the best results. Finally, remember to plan to cut the border around the deck railing posts.