If you’ve got some leftover decking on your hands, don’t make the common mistake of throwing it in the bin – there are so many ways you can upcycle it into something new and beautiful.

When it came to updating his garden design, my partner found himself with a lot of spare decking that didn’t get used, so he decided to turn it into a bamboo planter – saving himself the cost of buying one, as well as a trip to the recycling centre.

To find out how you can recreate this idea at home – plus five other ways to upcycle your decking – keep on reading.

How do I build a planter with leftover decking?

If you're keen to give this garden idea a go, here's a step-by-step guide to follow:

What you will need

Instructions

1. Build the frame
“We made a frame using 2x2 treated wooden uprights that were left over from building the house. The corners were screwed together, making sure they stopped about 60mm short of the planned height so that the soil would eventually cover the tops. We then screwed the decking board planks to the frame, making sure to match the decking gap spacing,” he explains.

2. Support your planter if required
If the fence behind your planter is thin or fragile, you can add some waterproof plywood to the back of your planter. My partner used some marine plywood he had left over.

3. Add damp-proofing and drainage
“We then lined the sides and back with leftover black plastic damp-proof membrane and placed black horticultural fleece (Terram) at the base for drainage. As it was sitting directly on the deck, water could drain away through the boards,” he continues.

"We had already put Terram under the deck to stop plants growing up through the gaps in the boards and had some left over. We then added some rubble to the base for drainage, so that we needed less compost or topsoil."

My partner chose to fill his planter with tall bamboo to hide an unsightly brick wall, but there are many other ways it could be used, such as zoning a garden with a divider.

If you also decide to fill it with bamboo, Lotte Berendsen, a plant expert from PlantIn, offers a word of caution: "As bamboo can grow quite tall, it’s prone to becoming top-heavy and falling over. A squared, low container can help counterbalance the weight and keep your bamboo on its feet! You can also add rocks or pebbles to the bottom of the container to help add weight and stability."

What else can I build with leftover decking?

1. Bench or picnic table: Every garden needs a beautiful place to sit and eat, and decking is the perfect material for building a bench or picnic table with a rustic outdoor feel.

2. Bin store: If you're looking for wheelie bin storage ideas, a wooden store is an effective way to keep them out of sight – and this can easily be built with leftover decking.

3. Compost bin: Spare decking can also be used to create your very own compost bin, designed to fit perfectly in your garden. Put your food scraps inside, and you'll have nutrient-rich soil in as little as four months – the perfect fertiliser for your vegetable patch.

4. Garden bar: My family used leftover decking to build their dream outdoor home bar idea, using it for both the raised platform and part of the structure.

5. Storage box: If space doesn't allow for a shed or outhouse, an outdoor storage box can come in handy for hiding tools, cushions, and general clutter. Just remember to line it with a waterproof layer and allow for drainage and ventilation.

6. Log store: Instead of splashing out on one of the best log stores, you could build one yourself using scrap pieces of decking.

With so many ways to recycle this valuable building material, it would be a real shame to see it go to waste when it has so much potential.

For more inspiration, have a browse through these budget small garden ideas, or read our expert guide on how to build a garden room.

If you want to give your garden a new lease of life this summer, decking is a fantastic way to make the most of your outdoor space. But before you get started, you'll need to know how many decking boards to buy – particularly if you plan on laying the decking yourself.

While the answer will depend on a variety of factors – such as the type of material and the size of the gaps between each board – there is a simple way to estimate a rough number, as our decking expert reveals below.

To find out how to make an approximate calculation, accurately measure your garden, and where to buy the best decking supplies, keep on reading – we've covered everything you need to know.

How many decking boards do I need?

To work out how many decking boards you'll need in your garden, Jack Williams, founder of JPW Fencing and Decking, recommends using the simple formula below:

Decking width ÷ decking board width + 5% for wastage

Alternatively, you can estimate two boards per square metre when using standard 3.6m-long, 150mm-wide decking boards, according to Allan Jeffrey, commercial director of Ultra Decking.

This calculation will help you get a rough idea of how many decking boards to buy. However, you may want to speak with a professional installer for a more accurate estimate of your specific space – particularly if you're working with an awkward shape.

Where to buy decking supplies

How do I measure my decking area accurately?

Now you know how to calculate the number of decking boards you need, your next question is probably how to work out the decking area. To do that, Allan Jeffrey says to measure the length and width of the space.

If you’re building a raised deck, you’ll also need to measure how high you want it to sit off the ground. It will be supported either by posts set into the ground (for soft surfaces) or by pedestals for hard surfaces like concrete.

While it’s definitely possible to work out an approximate calculation online, Allan Jeffrey says that for the most accurate results, it’s best to speak with a professional decking installer who can tailor it to your garden.

For more expert advice on installing your dream decking, read our guide on how to build a raised deck and whether you should choose wood decking vs composite.

When it's time to protect your timber decking, it's typically a toss-up between decking oil vs stain. Which one will best suit your needs and achieve the finish you want? In reality, both do a good job, but there are some subtle differences that you need to know to help you make the right decision for you.

Do you want to keep the natural appeal of your timber decking? Do you want to add a colour that matches your garden decking ideas? Have you ever painted a deck before? The pros answer these questions and more to ensure you make the best choice for you.

Pros and cons of decking oil

+ Better penetration

“Decking oil is great for nourishing and protecting decking against the elements, as the oil soaks deep into the wood," points out Jimmy Englezos, DIY Expert and Senior Brand Manager at Ronseal. "Because of this, the timber is well protected against UV damage, as well as mould, mildew, and excess moisture."

+ Natural finish

To enhance timber decking, Englezos says, "Decking oil is ideal for achieving a natural finish that beautifully highlights the wood grain." He adds, "It’s also generally easier to apply, as you can simply use a brush and generally don’t need to sand the wood beforehand."

+Easy application

If you want to get a job done easily, Paul Cave, Sales Director at Koppers, says, "If you’re looking for a finish that’s simple, quick, and hard to mess up, decking oil has the edge. It penetrates the wood rather than sitting on the surface, meaning it won’t show brush marks or streaks." He adds, "For trades and DIYers alike, it’s a forgiving option that doesn’t require much more than a clean surface and a dry day."

– Short lifespan

A downside to decking oil is how long it lasts, as Cave explains, "While decking oils are great for nourishing timber and bringing out its natural grain, they typically need reapplying every 6–12 months, especially in high-traffic or exposed areas."

– Lack of colours

Decking oils are typically limited in colour as Cave shares, "Colour options are generally limited to natural wood tones." If you want a strong colour change, decking stain is often a better option.

– Longer drying times

Oil-based products usually take longer than water-based ones. As Cave shares, "Decking oils often need 6-12 hours between coats, and humidity can slow things down even more." This means it will take at least two days to treat decking, and possibly longer.

Pros and cons of decking stain

+ Quick-drying

Decking stain is comparatively quick drying. Cave says. "Water-based stains generally dry faster, some in as little as 2-4 hours. That means you can finish a job and recoat in the same day if the weather’s right."

+ Long-lasting

"Here’s where deck stain shines," explains Cave, "With a film-forming finish that sits on the surface, stains tend to resist UV, water, and wear better than oils." He adds, "That means fewer touch-ups and longer gaps between maintenance coats - often up to 2–3 years."

+ Cost-effective

Prices for stain and oil are typically similar, but thanks to decking stain's longevity, it's more cost-effective, shares Cave, "Decking stains might cost a bit more per litre, but their longevity means fewer recoats, less maintenance, and lower total spend over the life of the deck."

+ More colour options

Compared with decking oil, stain offers more options, shares Cave, "Decking stain provides a wider variety of colour choices, allowing you to change or refresh the look of your deck more easily." He adds, "It forms a protective film on the surface, delivering strong UV protection that helps prevent greying. It also provides consistent colour coverage across the timber."

– Hides natural wood grain

If you want to bring out the natural colour of decking, stain isn't always the best choice, shares Cave. "Stains can obscure the natural wood grain and offer less conditioning benefit to the timber compared to oils."

– More preparation

While decking stain is more resilient, it needs more preparation. Cave says, "Reapplication often requires more preparation, such as sanding or stripping previous layers." He adds, "If not applied or maintained correctly, the surface finish of a stain can peel or flake over time."

Try these to help protect your decking

Tools to apply decking stain and oil

Once you’ve decided on a decking stain or oil, you need to think about painting decking and the tools you’ll need. Englezos says, “Whether staining or oiling your deck, the tools needed are similar.”

He adds, “For both jobs, a good stiff decking brush or pad applicator (like this Fit For The Job 5pc Garden Decking Stains, Oils to Wood Painting Kit from B&Q) is essential, as it provides a smooth, even coat without wasting product.” If working on a grooved deck, you need to make sure that the deck is smooth. Any snags will catch the decking pad and rip it.

A specialist tool does a good job, but everyday alternatives typically work just as well, as Englezos shares, “Rollers can also be used.” This roller set (Lynwood 3 Piece Shed Fence Wood Paint Roller Set from Amazon) are designed for sheds, fences and decking, but you can use everyday rollers (like this Harris Seriously Good Walls & Ceilings Twin Medium Pile Paint Roller Set from Amazon).

Englezos adds, “Just make sure to go over the grooves with a brush to ensure full coverage.” Ideally, you want to use a water-based stain, which will make it much easier to clean any rollers you use.

Finally, Englezos suggests, “A pair of gloves, a paint tray, and a drop sheet are recommended to protect yourself and the surrounding area. The only extra product you may need is a decking stripper to remove any existing oil, paint or stain before application.”

It is worth noting that decking and paint strippers are no longer as effective as they once were. Try jet washing with one of the best Karcher pressure washers, leave it to dry, and then sand to revive a deck ready for painting.

FAQ

Should I use a water-based or oil-based stain?

Both water and oil-based stains do a good job on decking, but which one you choose to use will depend on your preferences. Englezos extolls the virtues of water-based stains: “Water-based stains dry quickly, making them ideal for unpredictable weather. They have minimal odour, and spillages can be cleaned up easily using water.”

But oil-based stains have their plus points as well, continues Englezos, “Oil-based stains offer deeper penetration and a richer, more natural finish, but they can take longer to dry – often up to 24 hours.”

Whether you choose decking stain or oil, smart ideas can transform your decking once it's dry. Check out our small decking ideas, decking lighting ideas, and decking balustrade ideas for insight and inspiration.

Laying decking on grass might seem like a quick and easy option. It involves little or no preparation, and you can have a new deck laid in just a few hours. But, there are a few downsides that will become obvious a lot quicker than if you laid a deck the right way.

You don’t want to spoil your garden decking ideas, you want them to last and look good for as long as possible. And laying decking directly on grass isn’t the answer. Here, the experts reveal the problems that can happen and the steps you need to take to make your deck last longer.

Can I lay decking directly onto grass?

It’s not whether you can lay decking directly onto grass; it’s more of a question of whether you should or not. Decking expert Mark Irving from Build & Plumb says, “Whilst it’s possible to lay decking onto grass, it’s not recommended as it will make the decking highly susceptible to water damage, which can result in the development of mould and wood rot."

But, it's not just water ingress that can cause problems as Irving adds, “Furthermore, grass can attract a variety of insects under your decking which can cause damage by burrowing into the wood.” He adds, “It also has the potential to create a visual eyesore as over time grass and weeds may grow through the slats in between the decking.”

Thomas Oldham, owner of UK Construction Blog says, “The grass needs to be removed, and the ground levelled first.” Alongside the issues Irving mentions, Oldham adds, “ If you don’t, the decking could shift or sink.”

A sinking deck will ultimately need to be replaced, typically much sooner than a properly installed deck.

Try these out for laying decking

Should I remove the grass under decking?

The simple answer is yes. Irving says, “The best solution is to completely remove the grass prior to installation and use a grass killer to prevent the likelihood of weeds and grass growing in between the decking boards.”

Oldham adds, “Yes, you should remove the grass. Leaving it there could cause unevenness, create a perfect spot for weeds to grow, or lead to moisture build-up.”

But removing the grass might not be as obvious as it seems. Irving adds a point to consider: “However, this must be thoroughly considered, as in the long term, it can cause issues if you choose to remove the decking and grow the grass back in this area.”

If you recently removed decking and want to cover it with grass, check out our How to Lay Turf guide for expert insight.

What do I need to put down before decking?

Before any decking is installed, you must prepare the ground to ensure that the area is in optimal condition for the longevity of the decking. Oldham advises, “To establish a solid foundation, remove the grass and level the ground.”

Once the decking area is prepared and ready, Irving suggests, “You should lay down a weed protection membrane to prevent weeds from growing under the decking.” He adds, “Make sure to cover the entire area beneath the decking completely, as weeds can find their way through even the smallest gaps in the membrane.”

Once a weed membrane has been added to the ground, the next step is to add a layer of gravel. As Irving says, “It’s important to place a layer of gravel on top of the membrane. Not only will this keep it in place, but it will improve drainage below the decking and prevent the accumulation of moisture.”

He adds, “Stagnant water can significantly damage the structure of the decking and lead to mould or wood rot."

What is the minimum gap under decking?

While laying decking directly on grass is not recommended, leaving too small a gap between the ground and deck will also cause issues. Oldham says, “Leave a gap of at least 150mm (6 inches) between the decking and the ground.”

He adds, “This allows for airflow, which reduces moisture build-up and stops the timber from rotting.” You can lay decking closer to the ground if needed, but it's not recommended. If you do, make sure that a weed membrane is well-fitted, and that there is good drainage.

FAQs

Should I use C16 or C24 timber for decking?

When laying a timber deck, it is essential to select the best wood for decking, budget permitting. A common choice is C16 or C24 timber, as this rating defines specific characteristics of the two.

Irving states, “Both C16 and C24 timber can be utilised for decking, but typically, C16 timber is preferred as it is more economical and suitable for outdoor applications."

He adds, “However, C24 timber is deemed superior since it is a stronger grade of timber, making it more durable and capable of supporting heavier loads.”

Regardless of the timber you select, both must be treated. As Irving points out, “Both C16 and C24 timber should always be pressure-treated prior to outdoor use to prevent wood rot, weather or insect damage, and warping.” If left untreated, they will deteriorate much faster than treated timber.

How far apart should decking boards be?

Decking needs to have a gap between the boards; otherwise, it will lead to unwanted issues. Irving suggests, “For the majority of decking, there should be a 3mm to 6mm gap (though this can be as wide as 10mm) between decking boards, as this allows for expansion and contraction of the boards when the temperature or moisture changes.”

If the gap is too small, Oldham says, “You risk the boards warping or collecting water, which could lead to damage or make your deck slippery.” Check out our How to make decking non-slip guide to ensure your decking is safe to walk on.

If you’re thinking of building a new deck (and not laying it on grass), check out our small decking ideas and decking lighting ideas guides for inspiration. Once you have your new deck in place, it can become slippery, especially if it gets wet frequently. Anti-slip decking strips are a cost-effective solution to keep your deck safe.

Discovering what is the fastest way to remove algae from decking means saying goodbye to slimy, slippery surfaces and saying hello to a crisp, clean deck that not only looks good but is also safe to walk on.

No one wants to see their beautifully built garden decking ideas spoiled by algae, or even lichen and moss. But to keep it looking good, you need to use the right tools, products, and solutions. Here, the experts reveal their simple but effective tips for keeping decking clean and algae-free.

How to quickly remove algae from decking

To quickly remove algae from decking, there are a few factors to consider. Here, Dr Jonathan Kirby, Garden expert at Roxil and Mark Irving, Building expert at Build & Plumb, offer their essential tips to swiftly say goodbye to unwanted algae, lichen and moss.

1. Choose a sunny day

Kirby says, “Washing and treating wooden surfaces fully requires some waiting time to allow your cleaning and treatment products to work effectively on the surface.” He suggests, “Choose a sunny day to give your products the best chance of taking effect.”

2. Avoid bleach-based cleaners

“Use a stiff wooden brush to sweep away any loose debris from the area you want to treat,” suggests Kirby. “Then, choose your cleaner, but watch out for acid or bleach-based cleaners, as these can damage surfaces and irritate the skin.” He recommends, “Choose a gentle, non-destructive cleaner," like this Roxil Wood & Patio Cleaner from Amazon.

3. Use low power on a pressure washer

There are a few reasons why you shouldn’t pressure wash a deck, as Kirby points out, “Blasting away with a pressure washer won’t completely remove black spot lichen.” And, he adds, “If consistently used on surfaces, it can lead to damage over time.”

However, used correctly, a pressure washer can be a useful tool, says Irving, “Ensure that you use a low to medium power setting to avoid damaging the surface of the decking.”

4. Leave cleaner to do its work

When adding a cleaner, Kirby says. “Wear gloves to protect the skin and then apply the cleaner with a spray or wire brush, either neat or diluted depending on the space/size of the surface area.”

He adds, “Leave for between 1 to 24 hours, (check manufacturers' recommendations), to kill and loosen biological growth and dirt, washing away with a hose afterwards.”

5. Try DIY cleaning solutions

To remove algae from composite decking Irving says, “Use a mixture of bicarbonate of soda and white vinegar in a bucket of fresh water.” He adds, “This solution should be poured or sprayed over the decking and left for 10 to 15 minutes to break down the algae. Then you can go in with a soft brush and gently scrub the surface of the decking until the algae has lifted.”

To finish, Irving continues, “Always fully rinse your deck after cleaning to ensure that the solution has been fully removed.”

For timber decking, Irving has another DIY solution: “Take a bucket of water and combine it with one cup of distilled white vinegar, then pour the mixture on the decking and leave it to soak for 10 to 20 minutes.

He adds, “After 20 minutes, use a gentle bristled brush to scrub the surface of your decking and finish by fully rinsing the decking with fresh water.” Why use white vinegar? “White vinegar contains acetic acid, which makes it beneficial in cutting through dirt and stains.”

Try these to help keep your deck algae-free

Tools and solutions to use

To get rid of algae, you need a few tools. You can use a simple, stiff-bristled brush like this Sweeping Brush Outdoor Broom from Amazon. Or a pressure washer like this GUIFIN Electric High Pressure Washer from Amazon. Don’t forget to use it on low power.

If you using specialist products, Kirby says, “I would recommend treating the wood with a biocidal cleaner before applying a wood stain preserver like Roxil Coloured Wood Stain Preserver, which will provide a bright colour and lasting protection from UV and wood rot.

Irving says, “The brand Azpects has the Azpects 750ml EASYCare Algae Remover Spray bottle, an easy care spray algae remover that provides quick results that last up to 12 months”.

FAQs

What algae appears on decking?

Algae on decking is a regular occurrence, and there are a couple of common species often seen on wooden decking. Irving states, “Green algae is the most common type of algae that you will see on your decking, this is characterised by its green colour and slimy texture." He adds, “Typically, green algae thrive in damp and shaded locations.”

Another common visitor to wooden decking is black algae, which is slightly different to green algae, as Irving explains, “Black algae is another common form of algae. It can form in both the sun and shade and is characterised by its black colour and slippery texture.”

Unfortunately, both green and black algae will happily form together when conditions are right. Black algae are typically more difficult to remove and more likely to stain. So it makes sense to regularly remove dirt, leaves and debris, especially through the winter months when a deck sees more moisture.

How can I stop algae from coming back?

Removing algae is the first step in the fight to keep your deck clean and algae-free. The next is to prevent it from growing back. Irving says: “Regularly sweeping your decking to remove loose dirt, debris, and stagnant water can help to prevent the development of algae on the surface of your decking.”

Additionally, you will need to clean regularly, as Irving shares, “Simply wash your decking with hot water and washing up liquid every few months.”

Once your decking is clean and dry, the next step is to add protection, as Kirby shares, “Once it’s clean, it’s time to waterproof.” He adds, “Make sure the surface is completely dry before applying small amounts of a protective sealer, like this Barrettine Wood Protective Treatment from Amazon, directly to the surface using a brush or roller, and leave it to absorb into the surface for 24 hours.”

Irving offers a final tip to prevent moisture from reaching your decking: “If your decking is in an open location, it can be more susceptible to moisture from rain.” He continues, “During the winter months, it can help to place a cover – or something similar – over your decking to better protect it from the elements."

Keeping your deck clean and free from algae, moss, and lichen is essential to keep it looking good. Try one of the best decking paints to add a touch of colour to your latest raised decking ideas, and follow our painting decking guide to ensure a great finish.

Should decking grooves face up or down is a conundrum every DIYer has to deal with when laying a deck. It’s a classic question that doesn’t have a single straightforward answer. Part of the problem is that decking boards are not a one-size-fits-all solution. Different boards have different numbers and types of grooves.

Your garden decking ideas might significantly influence your decision on which way to lay the boards. However, the climate in your area may sway you to opt for a practical choice.

Here, the professionals offer their expert input to help ensure you choose the right fit for your decking boards.

Reasons why decking boards have grooves

Slip resistance and ventilation are the two most commonly mentioned reasons for grooves. Leigh Barnes, Retail Sales Manager at Jacksons Fencing, says, “Decking boards have grooves for slip resistance. The grooves provide better traction, reducing the risk of slipping, especially when the surface is wet.”

Mark Irving, building expert at Build & Plumb, suggests, “Decking boards are designed with grooves to improve airflow to the underside of the decking and prevent the build-up of moisture.”

Another reason for grooves in decking is to hide a fastening system. This helps create a more seamless look with no nails or screw heads on display.

Should decking grooves face up or down?

There isn’t a simple answer to this question as it will depend on your grooved decking. Some boards will have grooves on one side and be smooth on the other.

If they have larger grooves, manufacturers typically recommend laying them face down. Irving says, “Traditionally, decking is designed with the grooves facing downwards on the underside to help prevent warping and increase airflow.” The larger grooves create a gap between the bottom of the board and the joists, promoting airflow.

But many grooved decking boards feature grooves on both sides, such as this Klikstrom Madeira Green Spruce Deck board from B&Q. Typically, one side has larger, more pronounced grooves, while the other side has smaller grooves that are more visually appealing.

In this case, the smaller grooves can be installed facing upwards. Barnes states, “Decking boards should always have the grooves facing up, as they are designed to enhance slip resistance.”

Irving adds, “With the grooves facing upwards, this will promote water runoff and improve drainage.” With less water on a board, it will dry more quickly, which extends the lifespan of the decking. The faster it dries, the lower the chance of algae growth, which can make the boards slippery.

Jackson adds, “Decking should be installed onto a frame, which essentially creates a box for the decking boards to be installed onto. If you choose timber decking with a long guarantee that protects it against rot and insect attack, it will not need the ridges to be faced down to aid airflow and prevent rotting.”

Try these for your next decking project

The reasons behind different size grooves

Grooved decking boards are not a one-size-fits-all solution. You will notice that different decking has grooves of varying sizes, which offer function and form, as Irving points out, “Narrow grooves are often considered to be more aesthetically pleasing as they are less noticeable, but they still help to improve drainage.”

However, larger grooves can be a better option depending on the climate where you live. If you live in an area that sees a lot of rain, wider grooves can be a better choice, as Irving explains, “You will want to choose decking with wider grooves as they offer better water run off by channelling water from the decking at a quicker rate.”

This helps keep the boards dry out faster. Also, check if you need planning permission for decking before you choose your materials.

Which size grooves you choose will be very much a personal choice. Irving says, “A lot of decking comes with both narrow and wide ridges on either side, this means that you can choose which option you prefer and is more suitable for your climate and the location of your decking”.

Should a deck be perfectly level?

To allow for better drainage, a deck shouldn’t be laid perfectly level. Barnes says, “To encourage water runoff, you can install the decking boards at a slight angle, ensuring the slope follows the direction of the grooves for optimal drainage.”

A lack of runoff will mean that “moisture can sit in the ridges of the decking for longer,” says Irving. He adds, “If the moisture remains stagnant in the grooves, it can result in the development of mould and wood rot over time.”

To help with drainage, you want a pitch of approximately 10mm for every metre. This means you won’t notice the slope, but it will help the water run off.

FAQs

In which direction do you lay grooved deck planks?

Decking boards can be installed in either direction, although they generally run perpendicular to the deck frame. If a deck is attached to a house, it has what is known as a ledger board, which is a joist connected to the frame of the house. The remaining joists typically run parallel to the ledger board, while the decking boards run perpendicular to the house, pointing away to allow for water runoff.

However, the joists can be attached perpendicular to the house, enabling the deck boards to run parallel to the house. This arrangement creates the illusion of a wider deck that better blends with the house.

What is the best way to keep grooves clean?

Keeping a deck clean is relatively straightforward, as Irving explains, “Keep decking grooves clean by using a sweeping brush to sweep in the direction of the grooves.” He adds, “This will remove any moisture, dirt or debris that is trapped in the grooves of the decking.”

To get the best finish, you will need a stiff-bristled brush like this Stiff Heavy Duty Long Handled Scrubbing Brush from Amazon. Irving adds, “Crevice cleaners, like this SXhyf Cleaning Brush from Amazon, can be effective in removing trapped dirt and debris.”

For stubborn dirt and debris, combine the cleaning brush with hot water and washing-up liquid. Alternatively, try a specialist deck cleaner.

Irving suggests regular cleaning, “I recommend that you deep clean the grooves of your decking at least once every six months.” He adds, “Leaving your decking grooves dirty for a long period of time will cause wood rot”.

If you’re thinking of installing a new deck, check out our raised decking ideas and small decking ideas for inspiration and our decking costs guide to help with budgeting.

There’s a lot to consider when planning to turn an outdoor area into a permanent space to enjoy throughout the year. Decking vs paving are the common options, but there’s a lot to think about before making a decision on which will work best for you.

Are you going to install your smart new garden decking ideas yourself? Do you want an easy to maintain surface? Is your garden on a slope? These are just a few of the questions you need to answer before you make a choice between decking or paving. Follow the expert advice in this guide to help you make the right decision for you.

Decking or paving: Factors to consider

When making a choice between decking and paving, there’s a host of factors to consider before making a decision. Here we take a closer look at the different pros and cons of both.

1. Budget

As with most home improvement projects, budget is a big factor in the decision-making process. Mark Irving, decking expert at Build & Plumb, says, “Typically, decking is easier and more affordable to install than paving, so if you’re on a tight budget, decking is a good option.”

2. Durability

While decking can save on costs in the shorter term, paving can be a longer-term solution as Irving continues, “Paving is far more durable and long-lasting than decking, with an average lifespan of up to 30 years, whilst decking on average lasts about 15 years.“

He adds, “Therefore, paving is a better investment than decking as it typically lasts double the amount of time, so you’re sure to get your money back in the long run.”

3. Maintenance and cleaning

Decking maintenance will help ensure the longevity of decking, and the same applies to paving. However, paving needs less maintenance. Irving says, “Paving requires less maintenance than decking as the material is more durable and requires less frequent cleaning.”

He adds, “Wood can be more susceptible to weathering, so you may have to treat it once a year to maintain the quality of your decking.”

Keeping decking and paving clean is essential to keeping them looking good and prolonging their lifespan. Irving shares, “Wood can build up more dirt and debris over time, so it may require more regular deep cleaning than paving. Failing to maintain your decking can significantly reduce its lifespan by causing warping, splitting, and wood rot.”

4. Installation

Installation depends on the area to be paved or decked. Irving says, “If your garden is sloping or has uneven ground, then decking is a more suitable choice as posts can be used to elevate the decking and create a level surface.”

He adds, “Paving is harder to install on uneven surfaces as you will have to level off the ground, which is more time-consuming and expensive.”

Try this decking and paving on your next project

Which is cheaper to buy?

Paving and decking costs can vary greatly depending on the materials used, size, complexity and ground preparation. A budget deck is typically the cheapest option, but hardwood decks can easily cost as much, or more than, lower-priced paving or patios.

Irving says, “Typically, for an affordable medium-sized softwood decking you can expect to pay £2000-£2300.” He adds, “However, this can increase to over £3000 if you install composite decking that is higher-quality and more durable.”

Paving is typically more expensive, as Irving explains, “Paving can be much more expensive, with a medium-sized patio with concrete paving costing around £3000.” Prices can double, he adds, “Higher-quality natural stone paving can cost around £6000.”

Beyond material costs, you also need to think about installation costs if you are not doing it yourself. Irving says, “Decking is quicker to install than paving, which means that the average labour costs are much lower.”

He adds, “Typically, installing decking takes one to two days, whilst paving can take up to four if not five days. This has the potential to cost an additional £500, if not more.”

Is decking or paving easier to install?

If you want to tackle a project yourself then decking is definitely the easier options as Irving shares, “Decking is far easier to DIY than paving as it’s usually installed with screws or nails that are much easier to handle.” You’ll need a few basic tools like this Evolution Power Tools Sliding Mitre Saw from Amazon for cutting boards, and an impact driver like this INGCO Cordless Impact Driver from Amazon for driving in screws.

But it's not just the tools needed, there’s a lot more groundwork involved with paving, as Irving shares, “In addition, when installing paving, it requires a lot of preparation as you will have to completely compact and level the ground, whereas decking can be installed on uneven surfaces using posts.”

He adds, “Paving slabs can be very heavy and hard to manoeuvre, which can make for a more time-consuming and difficult installation.”

If you decide on decking, you’ll want to know how to clean decking to keep it in good condition. If you go with paving, you'll want to check out our garden paving ideas. If you’re going to install it yourself, follow our guide on how to cut paving slabs.

If you are wondering why you shouldn't use a pressure washer on a deck, we have the answer. But, it's not as simple or straightforward as you might think. There are scenarios where using a pressure washer on your deck is a poor choice. But then there are scenarios when it can be used, if used correctly.

It’s essential you get it right; otherwise, your recently implemented garden decking ideas could be ruined. Here, the pros give you the lowdown on when you should avoid pressure washing a deck and the reasons why, plus how to use a pressure washer on a deck correctly.

Why you shouldn't use a pressure washer on a deck

You can use a pressure washer on decking, but you need to be careful. As Henrique Conceicao, Area Manager at Total Clean, explains, “Using a pressure washer on decking can be an easy fix for cleaning, but if you’re not careful, it can cause a lot of problems.”

High pressure is not a good choice for timber decking, as Conceicao continues: “High pressure can strip away protective coatings, leaving the wood exposed and vulnerable to water damage, which can lead to rotting or splintering.” He adds, “It can also cause the wood to swell if too much water gets absorbed.”

Composite decking won’t have the same problems as timber decking, but it will have issues with high pressure. Conceicao says, “Composite decks are generally more resistant, but even they can lose their shine or show visible streaks if the pressure’s too high.”

But there are definitely times when you should not use a pressure washer on decking, as Conceicao shares, “If the wood is old or untreated, you’re risking causing more damage.” He adds, “It’s also best to avoid pressure washing during extreme weather - especially in the cold, because water that seeps in can freeze and crack the deck.”

Loose boards are another issue. Conceicao says, “If your deck has loose boards, nails, or damaged areas, pressure washing can make it worse.”

When to use a pressure washer on decking

You can use a pressure washer on decking, but it needs to be used properly to prevent damage. Jimmy Englezos, Senior Brand Manager at Ronseal, warns, “It must be done so with great care as it can damage the wooden fibres.” He adds, “If the decking is already slightly splintered the pressure of the water can cause even greater damage, splitting the deck further or chipping off more pieces.”

Englezos says, “A low pressure setting of around 110 Bar, or 1,500 PSI, should be used.” He adds, “When using a pressure washer, make sure it is on a low setting and you never place the nozzle closer than six inches to the decking surface.”

The best way to use the best pressure washers is to start on one side of the deck and move to the other side, following any grooves. Englezos adds a word of caution, “Make sure you are happy with the water pressure before cleaning the entire decking. If you change the pressure throughout, you will end up with different finishes across the decking.”

Try these to keep your decking looking good

How to pressure wash decking

When your decking needs cleaning, you need to prepare it before you use a pressure washer. Englezos says, “A good clean will remove any accumulated dirt and prepare the surface for cleaning.” He adds, “It’s best to use a stiff brush to remove dirt, grime and any mould that may be settled on your decking.”

A specialist cleaner is needed to help clean the decking. Conceicao says, “When it comes to cleaners, I’d recommend looking for something gentle, designed for outdoor decking.” He adds. “For timber, a mild wood cleaner or one that’s safe for pressure washing is ideal. For composite, a non-abrasive cleaner that can remove dirt and stains without affecting the finish works best.”

Harsh chemicals should be avoided, as Conceicao shares, “It’s a good idea to avoid harsh chemicals, as they may strip the surface and cause fading over time.”

Englezos suggests following the steps below:

1. Prep and brush

First, “Move any pots and furniture off the decking surface and cover any nearby plants,” says Englezos. Next, “Using a soft-bristled brush, brush away any excess dirt and debris.”

2. Add cleaner and pressure wash

Englezos says, “Pour the decking cleaner directly onto the surface and scrub using a clean brush. Leave the cleaner to work for 15-20 minutes to lift off the dirt.” He adds, “Using a pressure washer on a low setting, rinse off the entire decking surface to completely remove the solution.”

FAQ

How often should you pressure wash a deck?

As previously mentioned, a pressure washer should be used sparingly and correctly. Conceicao says, “Aim for two times a year, ideally in spring and after winter. This keeps it fresh and prevents the buildup of dirt, algae, or mildew.”

He adds, “In between those washes, sweeping the deck regularly and using a gentle deck cleaner can help maintain it without the need for constant pressure washing.”

You need to look after decking to ensure its longevity and integrity. Check out our 10 decking maintenance tips and how to make decking non-slip. When your decking finally needs replacing, check out our decking costs guide to help you decide how much to budget for the new deck.

Decking has to withstand the relentless onslaught of the weather and daily footfall. So, it's inevitable that it will need some love and attention during its lifetime, and knowing how to repair decking is essential to its longevity.

If your garden decking ideas are made from timber, they will be susceptible to moisture, and if exposed for too long, the timber will start to rot. Composite decking is hardier, but it's prone to scratching and even cracking. But before you start thinking of replacing your decking, find out what you can do to keep your current decking in good working order.

Best way to fix rotting wooden boards

Timber decking is prone to rotting, especially if it is not maintained. Leigh Barnes, Retail Sales Manager at Jacksons Fencing, says, “The first step is to evaluate the extent of the damage and identify the source.” He adds, “Foundation and water drainage are key areas to consider, which, if not addressed, can cause premature rotting.”

If the problem is confined to a single board, Barnes says, “If the supporting structure hasn’t been affected, replacing the damaged board is typically the best option.”

But if the problem has gone beyond the decking board, it might be a big job to sort, as Barnes explains, “If the rot is more significant and affecting the structure of the deck itself, it may be worth replacing the whole deck.”

He adds, “Removing parts affected by rot and applying treatment may not prevent further rot. Treatment needs to penetrate deep into the centre of the wood to offer the best protection.”

A long-term solution is to invest in quality wood as Barnes explains, "How timber is treated for its intended use will determine how well and long it lasts. Cheap wooden decking with a short or no guarantee will likely only last 2-5 years before it needs replacing."

He adds, "Choose wooden decking with a long-term guarantee, as this reflects the manufacturer's confidence in its durability."

Try these to help repair decking and keep it looking good

How to repair composite decking

Composite decking doesn’t rot like timber decking, but it can still be damaged and need repairing. A typical issue with composite decking is scratching on the surface of the planks. For minor scratches you can use a basic repair kit like this DAIXISM Furniture Repair Kit from Amazon.

These are like felt tips that match up with the colour of your deck and help blend in the scratches. But these are only a temporary solution. You will need to apply regularly, especially in the winter months or when the decking has heavy footfall. An alternative is wax sticks like these Briwax Filler Sticks from Amazon. But again they will need to be used regularly.

An option for deeper scratches is to sand around the area that needs repairing with fine sandpaper and mix it with clear silicone caulk to create a coloured paste. Then, fill the gap with a putty knife, like this Pro Grade Level 5 Stainless Steel Putty Knife from Amazon.

This is a longer-term solution, but the easy option is to get a new composite board and replace the old one.

Best way to refresh an old deck

Decking has to contend with all weathers, and while it may look like it needs repairing, it might just need a refresh. It's wise to refresh your deck regularly, as it can mean less decking maintenance.

Barnes gives a quick overview of what you should do to keep your deck looking its best. “The first step is to clean it thoroughly. Clean the deck to remove dirt, debris, and moss. You can use a pressure washer or a stiff brush to clean the surface.”

When cleaning a deck Branes suggests, “Always follow the grain of the timber when scrubbing to reduce marks.” He adds, “Good quality decking with a long lifetime guarantee should not require re-treating or re-staining. But if your decking requires it, choose a top-quality timber treatment (like this Ronseal Ultimate Decking Oil from Amazon) and apply it according to instructions.”

FAQs

Can I use a wood filler on deck boards?

The answer may seem obvious, but using a wood filler on a timber deck may not be the best solution, as Simon Wardle, decking expert at Armstrong Cheshire, explains: "While exterior wood filler might seem like an easy fix, it’s not always the best long-term solution. Most fillers don’t flex with the natural expansion and contraction of wood, so they can crack and break down over time, especially in high-traffic areas.

However, it can be used for minor repairs as Wardle shares, “If the damage is minor, a quality exterior filler (like this Toupret Wood Repair Filler from Amazon) might work as a temporary fix, but for anything more serious, replacing the board is usually the better option."

Where does joist tape need to be used?

As you might expect, joist tape is designed for joists. Here Wardle shares what it does, “Joist tape should go on top of the joists, beams, and ledger boards - anywhere the decking boards make direct contact.” He adds, “It helps to create a moisture barrier, preventing water from seeping into the wood and potentially causing rot.”

Some people worry that it can trap moisture causing timber to rot. But Wardle says this is not the case, “If installed correctly, it actually sheds water away rather than holding it in.” He adds, “The key is applying it smoothly, without air bubbles or gaps where water could seep in."

Why could my decking boards be rotting so fast?

If you notice that your timber decking boards are rotting much quicker than expected, there is probably an unseen reason as Wardle shares, “Excess moisture is likely the culprit.” He adds, “Water pooling on the surface, trapped moisture under furniture, or poor drainage can all lead to accelerated rot. Another big factor is airflow. If there’s not enough ventilation underneath the deck, moisture can get trapped and lead to decay."

But it's not just these reasons that can cause issues, continues Wardle. "The type of wood also plays a huge role.” He adds, “Softwoods like untreated pine won’t last as long as hardwoods or pressure-treated timber.” These are typically the best woods for decking.

Poor installation can also cause problems, as Wardle shares, “The ways your decking has been installed also has an impact.” He adds, “Boards placed too close together can trap water, and if the cut ends haven’t been sealed properly, water can seep in and speed up the rotting process."

Repairing a deck is one way to prolong its longevity, but it might just be time to replace it with a new one. Check out our small decking ideas and composite decking ideas for inspiration and how much you need to budget for decking costs.

Can you lay decking straight onto concrete? This is a question you should ask yourself if you have a patch of concrete where you want a new deck. It might seem like the perfect base to lay a new deck, but if you jump straight in and start laying decking directly on top you could be heading for trouble.

But it’s not as straightforward as you might think. Certain types of decking aren’t a good fit, while other types are the ideal answer for your garden decking ideas. Here the pros reveal what you shouldn’t do and what you can do to ensure you get a long-lasting deck.

Can you lay decking straight onto concrete?

If you have an area of concrete where you want to lay decking, you need to consider whether it's possible. The simple answer is that you can, but it's not advisable in most cases as Kevin Keen, contractor and owner of Keen's Buildings shares, “Concrete retains moisture, putting wood decking directly on top of it can hasten rot, deterioration, or the formation of mould, drastically reducing its lifespan – sometimes by as much as half.”

Even if you follow a strict decking maintenance routine, the decking will still deteriorate much quicker on concrete.

Luke Dejahang, CEO of Crown Pavilions says, “Trapped moisture will lead to rot and decay in timber decking and mould and mildew in composite decking.” He adds, “Concrete and decking materials expand and contract at different rates, which can cause warping and instability.”

Over time this will lead to bigger problems such as structural issues as Dejahang shares. “Without proper airflow and drainage, the decking can become unstable and deteriorate over time.” If a deck becomes unstable, unwanted accidents can happen.

Try these to help lay decking over concrete

Laying decking over paving slabs

Paving slabs are typically made from concrete and present the same or similar issues as concrete as Keen shares, “The issues with paving slabs mirror those of concrete, they don't allow proper airflow and drainage, creating ideal conditions for mould and rot in timber decking.” He adds, “If the paving isn't perfectly flat, your deck boards could warp or sag, creating uneven surfaces.” Uneven decking is a trip hazard.

While laying decking directly onto paving slabs is not recommended, they can be used as a base as Keen explains, “Paving slabs can work effectively if used as stable bases for decking posts – assuming they're correctly leveled and set.” He adds, “I recommend spacing paving slabs at consistent intervals, usually every 1.2 to 1.5 metres, to anchor posts for decking frames.” Keen finishes with a note of caution, “Just avoid using them directly underneath deck boards.”

Cheapest way to cover concrete or slabs

The common options for covering an area of concrete are the typical options for a standard deck. As already mentioned, straightforward wood decking is not a recommended option for laying directly onto concrete. But timber is typically the least expensive, especially if you install yourself.

Keen says, "Although natural wood may appear less expensive at first, the constant upkeep – staining, sealing, and replacing damaged boards – raises expenses over time."

He adds, “Composite decking tiles or interlocking plastic deck tiles offer the ideal combination of cost, longevity, and simplicity of installation. Composite tiles require little maintenance and can last up to 25 years.”

Decking types for laying on concrete

Laying traditional timber or composite decking directly onto concrete isn’t recommended but specific types of decking can be used as Keen reveals, “Interlocking composite or plastic deck tiles, (like these Nicoman Composite Interlocking Decking Deck Tiles from B&Q), are specifically designed for direct installation over flat concrete surfaces.”

They are specially designed to overcome the issues that concrete causes as Keen explains, “Decking tiles have built-in drainage grids to mitigate water pooling issues, extending their lifespan considerably.”

Wooden decking tiles, (like these Wickes Acacia Garden Deck Tile from Wickes), are available, but Keen says, “I would choose composite or plastic due to their natural resistance to mould and moisture.”

Floating decks are a feasible alternative as Keen continues, “A floating deck is one that isn't attached to anything and typically rests on pads or pedestals that offer superior drainage.” He adds, “Because these floating systems are easy to install, require little setup, and provide a noticeable cosmetic enhancement, I have personally suggested them to clients with uneven concrete patios.”

Installing decking posts in concrete

Concrete posts can be directly put into concrete, but this can lead to issues as Keen explains, “Generally I recommend against embedding wooden decking posts directly into concrete because concrete traps moisture around timber, causing premature rotting.” He adds, “Within three to five years, you'll likely see structural weakness.”

One option is to use a sealant, or a bitumen paint like this IKOpro Black Bitumen Paint from Wickes, to protect the part of the post that is to go into the ground.

Alternatively, Keen suggests utilising metal post brackets or anchors instead. He says, “Attach the wooden posts after anchoring the metal bracket into the concrete. This easy method can increase a deck post's lifespan by decades.”

If you are looking to lay wooden decking you want to decide on what is the best wood for decking. Even the best wood can become slippery so make sure to read our how to make decking non-slip to avoid accidents. If you have composite decking that's looking faded, you should think of painting the composite decking.

Living in a property with no gas central heating was one of the main targets for Peter and Liz Bosson when they decided to build a new home. They adopted a self-sufficient approach, aiming for an airtight structure that wouldn’t leak heat.

They wanted the replacement self build of their beachfront property near Chichester to be future-proofed with clever design features that look beautiful while remaining functional.

After selling their family company Peter and Liz had some money to invest in building a new holiday home to replace the one they had, which was falling apart. “It had been expensive to run and that’s why we chose to build an ultra-low-energy house,” explains Peter. “We also wanted to challenge ourselves and see whether we really could do it. Looking back, it seems like the best decision we could have made.”

Formulating the new plan

The original house was badly designed and had poor use of space. Architecturally the circulation wasn’t well thought-out so around a third of the space was lost.

The couple wanted a four-bedroom house, with bedrooms all of the same size, that could hold 10 people if it needed to. The beach is just a stone's throw away from the front of the property, with completely uninterrupted views, so maximising this in the design for their coastal house seemed a no-brainer.

Researching the design for inside and out

The project has been six years in the making as the couple invested a lot of time researching the types of building methods and self-build routes that could help them achieve what they wanted. ”We went to building shows for research and slowly it became clear to us what we needed to do.”

They worked with Milan-based architect Caroline King on the initial drawings and designs and then engaged Hatch + Mason to help them with detailing the interior elements.

The team advised on everything for the project, from the installation of the insulated beam and block foundation and posi-joists for the floor structures, which enabled them to run ducting and other services through, to the fitting of the bespoke contemporary picture rail that runs through the property.

Opening up the space

The couple went against the idea of an upside-down house, which is a popular style in the area. “We wanted our design brief to connect us to the landscape and leave the doors open in the summer so people can come in and out of the communal areas freely,” says Peter.

“People are able to have privacy when they want it and can come together, too. It was a brief that everybody in the family contributed to," he adds.

The kitchen design features reclaimed timber that has been stained and waxed. Eight people carried in the concrete worktop and patinated it down. It’s proving itself to be a robust material.

“We decided to have drawers instead of cupboards so that we can more easily see everything we have in there," says Peter. "We all like to cook here and there’s room for us all to be in here at once.”

Smart design for future living

Once the working drawings were established, questions were raised about the couple's choices. “For instance, we were asked whether the staircase design is in the correct position because I wanted to be able to install a lift in the future,” says Peter.

This led them to install a plywood flight that has been bolted together and can be removed and reconfigured to make space for a lift. Other smart home design features include the picture rail that runs through the house.

“We hang our pictures up and can move them around the property whenever we feel like it. This way the pictures don’t start to feel like wallpaper,” says Peter. “It’s how dado rails were traditionally used in Georgian properties.”

A super-speedy build

Construction only took one week as the structure was a prefabricated construction system done off-site. “The first thing we did was to make it airtight, which is the most effective way to stop heat pouring out. The project only slowed down when we started the internal fit-out with the wiring, plastering and tiling,” says Peter.

“We also changed our mind on a few things, such as the layout of the bathroom, which delayed the timings a little."

Energy-efficient choices

“We went for a gas boiler alternative," explains Peter. 'There is electric underfloor heating that’s powered by solar PV, but it’s rarely ever on." The prefabricated four-bedroom property also has an MVHR system, which helps retain heat and makes the building work efficiently by removing moist air from the building and drawing fresh air back in, which is then passed over a heat exchanger. “The house basically looks after itself. It’s 20 degrees year-round,” says Peter.

Having an abundance of glazing ideas, the Bossons’ house benefits from thermal glazing, which helps to negate any reliance of conventional heating. With such glazing, it’s less that the glass has special properties and more about how the window pane is constructed – basically, whether it is double or triple-glazed.

"The thermal efficiency of glass sealed triple glazed units has improved so much that the frames are now the least efficient part of the window – whereas once upon a time it was the glazing," says Edward Stobart, sales manager at IDSystems.

Permanent home

As work was completed before the start of the pandemic Peter and Liz were able to move into the property and use it full-time when the country went into lockdown. This had always been a weekend home as they actually lived in Greenwich, but during lockdown their daughter moved into that house while her house was being built and the couple have remained here ever since.

The couple have received mixed responses about the modern style. “Some people are very positive and some ask: ‘why did you build a box and clad it in pine’,” says Peter. “The timber cladding is Sweet English Chestnut, we bought some trees from the South Downs, which have weathered down really nicely."

Creating such a contemporary self-build has certainly paid off for the couple. "The house fits like an old pair of slippers, it’s not imposing like a grand period property, which is exactly what we wanted," says Peter. "It feels like you can walk in and put your feet up."

When it's time for a smart new deck you need to know how to build a deck frame before you can add any finishing touches. A solid well-built deck frame may not take the plaudits for looking good, but without it your lovely new deck won’t stay looking good for long. 

How long decking lasts will depend very much on how well-constructed your deck  frame is. Here we reveal what timber you need, how to attach the frame to your home and what tools and measurements you’ll need to build a sound, secure deck frame.  

How to build a deck frame: Where should it go?

Before you even think about building a deck frame you need to decide on its position. Planning ahead will ensure that you (hopefully) don’t encounter any major issues further down the line. “You should always think about how you might want to use the space,” suggests Lee Heitzman, UK and Ireland Market Manager at Trex UK. “Where gets the most sunlight? Are you wanting to use the space for entertainment? And, check with your local council for guidelines on planning permission requirements.”

Do you want to access the deck directly from a door? Or is the door too low for a deck? Will the deck be under a tree or bushes? If it is falling leaves, bird droppings and general garden debris can drop onto the deck and stain and spoil the surface. So think carefully before you start. 

How to build a deck frame: Step-by-step guide

Before you start, make sure that you have chosen a suitable spot to build and have all your tools – drill, screws, saw – and timber nearby and ready to go.   

1. Prepare the ground 

Before you build a deck frame you need to prep the area where it's being built. Assuming the area you are working in is reasonably flat and level, “You can mark it out with a series of string lines.” explains Heitzman. “This will allow you to mark where your posts will be located.” You can use any type of string, which can be easily purchased on sites such as Amazon.

He continues, “Once you have dug a hole for the posts – to a minimum of 600mm in depth, you can then concrete your posts in.” Just remember, “Ensure that they are at the required height and level.” adds Lee.

Structural posts should be positioned in each corner and every 1.5-1.8m. For example, if you have a 3m x 3m frame. you would have a post in each corner and one in-between at 1.5m and a post in the middle. 

To finish the area Heitzman says, “Cover with a weed suppressant membrane and a layer of pea shingle to help weigh it down.” Again, weed membrane can be easily found on Amazon and pea shingle at your local building supplies store, such as Travis Perkins.

2. Add wall plate 

A wall plate is used when building a deck frame that is connected to the house. As part of the outer frame, “It is a good idea to pack this off the wall using spacers to allow for airflow,” shares Heitzman. “You can also add TrexProtect tape to the back of the joist to give it protection against moisture.”

To attach the wall plate (which is effectively a joist), “Drill and use threaded bolts with a chemical resin solution to give you a strong connection”.

Use a spirit level and pencil to mark where the wall plate is going. Make sure that the top of the wall plate is at least the deck board depth plus 10mm, i.e 24mm + 10mm, below the bottom of any doors or access points.

Drill pilot holes (big enough for your screws/bolts) 50mm in from the top and bottom edge of the joist at approximately 600mm intervals.  

3. Build the frame 

“When building the frame, you should use a framing square (or rafter square) to ensure the deck is square, and also use a spirit level to ensure your frame is level.” recommends Heitzman.

Cut the joists to size and lay out the frame and screw in at each corner with two screws. Remember to make sure that the frame is square. Now you need to start adding joists. 

“Joist layout is determined by the design of your deck, but as a guide, wherever a deck board starts and ends, the first and last joist should be at a maximum of 250mm on centre, joists between that would need to be at a maximum of 400mm on centre,” continues Lee. 

Secure the joists with large screws or use joist hangers to support the joist. Once all the joists are in place you need to add noggins. These are the short pieces of wood between joists. “Noggins are added to support the frame and stop lateral twist. Recommendations would be to add noggins every 800mm maximum.” shares Heitzman.

Use a square to mark a straight vertical line on the joist, then drill pilot holes using the best cordless drills around 50mm from top and bottom and screw in the noggin. Do this on both sides of the noggin. 

Try these tools when building a deck frame

FAQs

What size timber do I need for a decking frame? 

The size of the timber you’ll need will depend on the size of the decking frame. But whatever size it is it will be the same size for the outer frame, joists, and noggins. But what size should they be? “The height of your deck in relation to the ground may play a part in deciding your joist height,” shares Heitzman. “But, a recommended minimum of 47mm x150mm is advised.”

And it's not just the size of the timber that is important as Heitzman adds, “Use a timber treated to UC4 for external use, and C24 strength graded is recommended to ensure the longevity of your frame. You should also treat every cut end of the frame.”

What does UC4 mean? UC4 means that the timber is pressure treated to a specific level that allows it to be used in the ground. UC4 timber has a warranty for 15 years.  What does C24 mean? This refers to the strength of the timber as well as the appearance, density and moisture. In the UK you will find that C16 timber and C24 timber are the common choices, with C24 being stronger than C16. 

What is the best way to construct a deck frame? 

A deck frame needs to be securely fixed together as it can see heavy loads. “When screwing the frame together, it's vital to use construction grade fixings that have been tested for a high sheer point,” explains Heitzman. 

“The deck frame will be heavy, construction grade fixings are designed to deal with the outside elements and high loads that are found in a deck. Remember, the deck will only last as long as the framing.”

100mm-150mm screws are recommended to ensure a good tight fit for the outer frame. Use an impact driver to drive the screws in. The joists and noggins can be attached using a technique known as toenailing. This is driving in a screw or nail at an angle. 

Joists can also be attached with a joist hanger. These are typically the strongest, safest and easiest option to attach a joist to a deck frame. If using joist hangers make sure to get the right size fixings (nails, screws) to attach them to the frame and joists.  

Does a deck frame need to be treated before adding boards?  

If you have bought the right timber for your deck frame it should already be treated, “The frame should already be treated to UC4 for external use” shares Heitzman.

While it is a sensible idea to treat any exposed cuts, there is something else you should do. “Providing you have treated all cut ends, the last step would be to add TrexProtect tape (or similar) to the tops of all the timber,” explains Heitzman.

“This butyl-backed tape sticks to the surface and provides added protection by waterproofing your timber surfaces. When the decking fixings penetrate the tape, the butyl flows around the fixing to help make the connection watertight, greatly increasing the life of your subframe.”

Building a deck frame is just the beginning when adding a deck to your home. After adding your boards – should you choose wood or composite decking? – you need to think about decking maintenance and some smart decking lighting ideas to make it look good.  

If you're like me, when it comes to a spot of DIY or spruce-ups, I always prefer to use the fewest possible tools or products. Maybe it's the millennial in me, but if there's a tool or product that does everything, then that's always my go-to.

My desire for a magical one-size-fits-all approach has often steered me wrong. I even managed to convince myself that using gloss paint for wood was really just a clever marketing ploy. I definitely learnt my lesson when I was sanding peeling paint off a brand new set of built-in cupboard units.

Therefore I would urge caution before slapping any leftover fence paint on your decking ideas and hoping for the best. That's not to say it can't be done, but it's worth avoiding wasting time and money on having to rectify any mistakes.

Using fenced paint on decking: Essential advice

Bear in mind that decking performs a very different function from fencing, it has to put up with foot traffic and the weight and movement of furniture. Therefore it's important to know if you can use fence paint on decking before you start.

Can you use fence paint on decking

"Fence paint isn't suitable for use on decking unless it directly states so," explains Jimmy Englezos, Senior Brand Manager from Ronseal.

"Although fence paint is designed to protect the wood from the elements, it is not designed to handle foot traffic and so will become less durable over time. Many decking paints and stains also have anti-slip properties that provide a safer space for walking, especially when the deck is wet from rainfall," says Jimmy.

"If you have used fence paint on decking you may not notice the difference at first. But over time the paint will likely start to peel and flake off, leaving you with a patchy-looking decking. This also re-exposes the wood to the elements which can leave it vulnerable to long-term damage including wood rot, cracking, and warping," says Jimmy.

Sophie Smith of Zhoosh Paints adds: "If you have composite decking, it should not need painting as the colour will have been added to the material during its manufacture and it is a very durable material.”

Shop suitable paint for decking

Using decking paint on fences

On the flip side, it is possible to use decking paint on fences. You might do this if you are looking for a perfectly matching fence and deck scheme in your garden.

"Decking paint, stain, and oil are all perfectly okay to use on fences as they offer the same weatherproofing and UV protection as fence paint, just with the added bonus of them being more durable," says Jimmy.

"They do tend to work better on smooth-planed fences rather than rough-sawn as these surface types are the closest to decking. However, because of their added durability in most cases, they are a higher cost than fence paints."

If the extra cost is a factor the good news is that the range of colours available in paint and decking stain means that you should be able to find a good match for your paint and decking.

FAQs

Can Ronseal fence paint be used on decking?

"No, Ronseal’s fence paints or garden paints should not be used on decking. Instead, use a specialised decking paint," says Jimmy Englezos, Senior Brand Manager at Ronseal. Try Ronseal’s Ultimate Protection Deck Paint at Amazon.

If you are looking for a more natural appearance, opt for decking stains like Ronseal’s Ultimate Protection Decking Stain available at Tool Station.

Can you use any paint on decking?

"Only designated decking paints should be used on decking as they are specially designed to withstand scuffs and wear from foot traffic and furniture. The same goes for fence stains, only specially stated decking stains should be used as these are much more durable," says Jimmy Englezos, Senior Brand Manager at Ronseal.

Can I use fence paint on wood?

"Many fence paints are designed to be used on rough-sawn wood as this can require up to 30% more paint than smooth-planned surfaces. However, water-based paints can also be used to paint wooden garden furniture items and accessories. They work better on items that have not been oiled, varnished, or stained," explains Jimmy Englezos, Senior Brand Manager at Ronseal.

If you decide that the upkeep and maintenance of decking is too much for you, have a look at our guide to decking alternatives.

There are a few things which can cause a deck to become a slippery surface. The most common is due to the growth of algae and mould. So before looking at where to buy anti-slip decking strips, and before applying any product, give your decking surface a good clean down.

The advantages of using anti-slip decking strips, particularly the more permanent screwed-down fixtures, are that anti-slip stains and treatments will have to be regularly re-applied if they're to continue being effective.

Anti-slip tape strips won't be as long-lasting as more permanent screwed-down versions, but the advantage is that they're quicker and easier to apply. 

We share where to buy anti-slip decking strips to make your decking ideas safer all year round, including hard-wearing fixed options, easy-to-apply tapes and a soft option which will be kinder to bare feet.

Find out where to buy anti-slip decking strips for safer decking

Many new decking products, including composite decking, are designed to make decking non-slip, meaning that additional anti-slip decking strips shouldn't be necessary, unless you have a particularly bad build-up of algae. 

• Amazon extensive range of affordable options
• B&Q Different widths and classic colours available
• eBay Includes wide and narrow options as well as multiple colours
• Temu Wide range of anti-slip tapes
• The Range Packs of pre-cut tread tape for decking
• Wayfair From easy-to-install tape to more permanent fixings 

The key things to bear in mind when buying anti-slip decking strips are how slippery your deck is and which areas need treating, all of which will help you to decide which level of slip-resistance you need.

For example, are there stairs and other pathways which could benefit from anti-slip aids? Plus you might want to consider how your decking is used – do sensitive bare feet need to be catered for?

Remember that algae can cause decking boards to become slippery so try removing this first with a pressure washer if you are able to.

Amazon

The Range

B&Q

eBay

Wayfair

Temu

If you are looking to replace your old deck, have a look at our decking alternatives for some options you may not have considered previously.

Decking alternatives give you a different option to wood - usually the most popular choice when it comes to garden decking ideas. But, if you’ve got an outdoor area you want to transform into a cosy seating spot you don’t just have to choose wood. There are a whole host of stand-ins that will give you a long lasting and attractive finish.

However, as a quality hardwood or composite decking are the best options when it comes to decking, these can be expensive. The good news is if you are on a budget there are some great substitutes to create a desirable outdoor space. 

Decking alternatives don't have to break the bank

Mention the word decking and most people immediately think of timber or wooden decking that sits outside the back of your home. While using cheap wood is one on of the most common decking mistakes and should be avoided where possible, there are still other options.

Even decking itself comes in different formats, finishes and sizes meaning there are budget decking alternatives available. Along with other products that are cheaper and easier to install, we look at what's on the market to suit all scenarios and pockets.

Decking alternatives. What are the options?

1. Composite decking 

Composite decking ideas are a a popular alternative to wood decking.  Composite decking is typically made from wood and plastic fibres which gives it a more durable and easier to maintain finish than timber. It is ready to go and doesn’t need to be sanded, stained or painted and is insect and pest resistant.

The downside is that as one of our decking alternatives it is more expensive than wooden decking, but it will last for years and stay looking good with a lot less maintenance required.   

2. Decking tiles 

If you are looking for a quick-to-lay deck with a difference, then decking tiles are definitely worth considering. They are available in composite, wood and plastic finishes and interlock to create a surface that easily fits into any size area. 

They come in various sizes and patterns, but are commonly laid at 90 degree angles to create a basketweave pattern.

The big bonus is that they can be laid directly onto a flat surface and don’t need a base, but if laying on grass or dirt a weed membrane is recommended.  

As a bonus, they also require very little decking maintenance making them a strong contender in our list of decking alternatives.

3. Paving slabs 

Patio ideas are a great alternative to wooden decking and there’s plenty of materials to choose from. Concrete paving slabs are the most economical alternative and can be obtained in different colours. You can also use them creatively in your garden paving ideas as it's not difficult to cut paving slabs to create unique or nonstandard patterns and designs. 

As decking alternatives, patio slabs are hard wearing, durable, long-lasting and easy and cheap to replace should one break.

Natural stone and porcelain slabs are a more attractive and timeless addition to the garden if you're seriously weighing up a patio vs decking, and although they are hard-wearing and weather resistant, they will cost considerably more than concrete slabs and timber decking. 

But if you want the luxurious feel that they bring, they are definitely a great alternative.  

3 decking alternatives to transform your outdoor space

4. Pallet decking 

This is a smart and eco-friendly way to reuse old wooden pallets – which you can often get for free or may have left over if you've been building an extension or renovating your home. As pallets come ready built, it’s simply a matter of laying them down, fixing them together and finishing.

It's important to note however that pallets typically have a rough finish, are not high quality wood and are not always consistent in size. But with the help of the right type of saw and a sander you will be able to get a good fit for your space and introduce a decent finish which you can stain or paint. 

If you don't have any pallets, you can also check Facebook Marketplace, Gumtree or contact local companies to get cheap or free pallets.  

5. Gravel 

This may not have the kudos or aesthetic appeal of more traditional decking, but gravel is a quick and cost effective alternative and can be used for a variety of gravel garden ideas. 

It is comparatively cheap to buy, quick to lay and there’s no need to invest in expensive tools. All you will need to do is lay down a weed control membrane, pour the gravel on top and spread out with a rake.  

The beauty of gravel is that it is easy to maintain and keep clean. Wash down with a hose pipe and rake out to get an even flat surface. Keep any left over gravel and top-up any patches when needed. 

6. Bark chippings 

For a quick, cheap and easy to lay decking alternative, you will be hard pushed to find anything better than bark chippings. You can purchase a bag of bark chippings like these Verve Dark Brown Large Bark chippings from B&Q for around £10-£15 with a coverage of 4m2. Three bags would give you enough for an area of 4m x 3m.

While eco-friendly, the downside to bark clippings is that they’re not as aesthetically pleasing as standard decking and not very permanent. Wind and feet will disturb and move the chippings around so they will need a lot of maintenance and replacement. And, when they get wet they take a while to dry out. 

7. Self binding gravel 

Self binding gravel is similar to standard gravel, but the gravel is typically smaller and combined with sand and clay particles to help it bind. This helps create a compact, solid surface and is often used on pathways to create a natural looking, hard-wearing finish. 

It is not as aesthetically pleasing as timber decking, it is susceptible to weeds, but laying a weed membrane will help suppress them. And, it can produce dust when walked on which can transfer to shoes and clothing.

Decking alternatives FAQs

How do I get a wooden deck on a budget?

If you are on a budget but still want a wooden deck, work out what you can afford to buy and build to suit. 

For example, if you have a budget of £300, you can afford to purchase around 18 of these Value Green Spruce Deck boards from B&Q plus timber joists, screws and weed membrane. 

Work out how much space it will cover – in this case you will get a 1.8m x 2.1m (approximately a 6 x 7 foot) deck. Check out our small decking ideas to see how you can make the most of your small space. 

It’s also worth shopping around to see if you can get your timber cheaper. Online retailers and local suppliers should be able to offer you a better deal than the more well-known home improvement stores.  

If you are looking to undertake a full garden and hard landscaping project, check out our garden landscaping ideas for more inspiration. And once you’ve got your new decking installed, make sure you find out how to clean decking and follow our decking maintenance guides to keep your outdoor space in top condition.

Can you paint composite decking? While many people's thoughts might well be turning towards some deck maintenance now that summer is (almost) here, it really does pay to only carry out tasks that are going to really benefit your garden.

Decking ideas come in all shapes and sizes – and in many different materials too. The type of decking you have will dictate what kind of care and maintenance it requires to stay looking its very best – in short, what works for one decking material may well be completely unsuitable for another.

Here, we take a look at whether or not it is a good idea to paint composite decking, a material known for its durability.

Can you paint composite decking?

Despite the robust and relatively maintenance-free nature of composite decking, the UK weather inevitably means that any outdoor structure or surface is going to take something of a battering at times, leaving it looking a little less pristine than when it was first installed.

Decking maintenance is important for many reasons. Of course, all decking will benefit from being kept free of leaves and other debris, as well as a regular wash down with soapy water. However, in some cases a little more in the way of upkeep will be required – and in certain instances this can mean a fresh coat of paint. But is this a requirement for composite decking?

"Painting Trex composite decking is unnecessary," advises Lee Heitzman, Trex’s UK market manager. "Painting is a commitment to be kept up every few years, but the beauty of composite decking is how low maintenance it is – there’s no need to treat, stain, seal or paint it." 

"There is no need to paint modern and high-quality decking because it is manufactured with a PVC cap or shell which protects it against damage and gives it its long life," explains Helen Godsiff, brand manager at Eurocell. "However, older and uncapped deck boards, which may have faded or changed colour over time, can normally be painted. Keep in mind that painting your composite decking may void your warranty."

"Painting composite decking is generally not recommended, but it can be done under certain conditions," further explains Chris Bonnett, the founder of Gardening Express. "If your decking is uncapped and more than ten years old it might be a little bit easier. This is because modern decking features a factory-applied finish that resists fading, staining, and scratching, making the decking more low maintenance and durable. But this also prevents the paint from adhering."

Can painting composite decking damage it?

While painting composite decking is, it seems, unnecessary, how about if you just fancy bringing in some new decking colour ideas? Could painting it be a good option or do you risk causing damage to your deck?

“We work hard to match the colours of our boards to true wood tones and textures and painting would disguise this natural wood look that so many clients ask for," explains Lee Heitzman. “Painting could potentially affect other benefits too including heat mitigating technology – our premium decking range reduces heat by up to 40% compared to traditional timber deck.”

Can uncapped decking be painted?

There are two types of composite decking: capped and uncapped. 

"Uncapped decking, also known as first generation, doesn’t have a protective layer which means it is more prone to damage from the weather, sun, or general wear and tear. The colour can also fade faster. You can generally paint uncapped decking," says Helen Godsiff. "The surface of capped decking is coated in PVC which makes it suitable for use outdoors regardless of the weather. It also protects it against rotting, stains and fading, so you don't need to paint it. What’s more, if you do paint it, it’s likely to flake off.

"To find out if your decking is capped or uncapped, check the edge of the deck boards to see whether there is a thin layer on top," continues Helen. "Another clue is that it tends to be smoother, more vibrant and uniform in colour. If you’re unsure or have any doubts, check with your manufacturer or the product information booklet."

How do you paint composite decking?

If you have old, uncapped composite decking you might be keen to see whether a lick of paint could give it a new lease of life, but do be aware that this new coating may well not stand the test of time and you could expect your new composite decking ideas to quickly begin to deteriorate.

"It is very difficult to paint composite decking without it looking untidy and unprofessional," warns Lee Heitzman. "Over time, paint will also chip, flake and fade when exposed to the elements."

Still determined? "If the composite decking is old and faded and you do decide to give the decking a fresh coat of paint then there are a few things to consider," says Chris Bonnett. "Proper surface preparation is essential. The decking should be thoroughly cleaned to remove any mildew, mould, or debris. 

"You should lightly sand the surface to improve paint adhesion and use a high-quality stain or exterior paint designed for composite decking – and don’t forget to apply a primer before painting." 

"Painting your decking means committing to painting it every two to three years," explains Helen Godsiff. "You will also need to paint it meticulously to avoid it looking messy or uneven. Bear in mind that you will need suitable decking paint, which can be costly especially in the long run."

The range of decking paint from Frenchic adheres well to composie decking and comes in a wide range of colours. 

FAQs

How can you keep composite decking looking good?

Just as with timber decking, to keep composite decking in good condition and looking its best for as long as possible, there is a degree of maintenance required, so be sure to familiarise yourself with how to clean decking properly. 

"Taking care of your composite decking goes a long way to maintaining its colour. You only need to clean it once or twice a year, but regular sweeping can help prevent staining from leaves or debris, which can in turn prevent unsightly mould or mildew," says Helen Godsiff.

"If you do see surface stains, clean it with a soft bristled brush and washing up liquid. Cleaning can keep it looking fresh and in some cases, return it to a brand new state."

If you have a considerable build-up of dirt, try a product such as Wet & Forget Mould, Lichen & Algae Remover from Amazon. 

How long should composite decking last?

According to Ultra Decking, providing you properly maintain and care for your composite decking, you can expect it to last for between 10-25 years.

If you are comparing wood decking vs composite, you might be interested to know that Ronseal advise that timber decking can lasts from between 15 and 30 years with the right care and maintenance. Alternatively, take a look at some decking alternatives if you're considering a change.

Both composite and timber decking are a fantastic way to create an outdoor area from which to sit and enjoy your garden. However, they are not the only option. There are some beautiful other patio design ideas to consider before making your final choice. 

Wooden decking blasted as an “eyesore” is set to be torn down after an investigation by local planners.

The decking, installed in the front garden of a flat in Trevethin, Wales, has been the subject of a disagreement since it was installed in 2018.

Homeowner Leon Yemm has been told he has to pull down half of the decking, along with his pergola, posts and beams, because it breaches planning permission rules.

What was built?

The decking is seven metres long and nine metres (30ft) wide with a pergola, posts, and beams also installed.

Planning permission for decking is required in some circumstances depending on the size and height.

"If you are installing decking in your garden, you may need planning permission if your decking is 30cm above ground or more, or covers more than 50% of your garden area, including any extensions or outhouses," advises Allan Jeffrey, Managing Director of Ultra Decking.

Neighbour complained it was an "environmental eyesore"

There were four comments in support of Mr Yemm’s decking, but one objector listed three complaints against it.

They claimed it was an “environmental eyesore”, that there was “nothing similar in the Trevethin area”, and even claimed it was “morally wrong to seek planning permission after the event”, despite retrospective planning being a common process.

Why was the application refused?

Due to the size and scale of the decking and pergola, planning officers refused planning permission after the fact but approved the partial retention of the decking.

A Torfaen County Borough report stated: “The area of decking proposed to be retained is much smaller than the decking that was originally built and this scheme does not include the retention of the pergola.

“The decking is proposed to extend 3.8m from the front elevation of the property, and due to the sloping nature of the land, it will be a maximum of 0.5 m higher than the original ground level.

“As the front gardens of these properties are relatively deep, the decking will be sufficiently set back from the highway so as not to appear unduly prominent within the streetscene.”

Decking steps ideas are no longer just about the practicalities of joining a decking area to your lawn, they can zone a space and become a feature in their own right.

Installing garden steps can be about adding flair to your garden design — from illuminated uprights to sunken spaces and even inbuilt outdoor kitchens.

Whether you're just starting to sketch out your garden decking ideas or you're improving your existing scheme, you've come to the right place. 

Decking steps ideas can transform your garden

Decking steps are more than functional structures; they can be eye-catching design elements that bring character to your outdoor space. If your garden has multiple levels or terraced sections, decking steps provide the perfect solution to link these levels together and assist you in getting from A to B. 

From curved steps that offer a touch of elegance to unique sunken decks, we’re taking a look at a variety of stylish and practical ideas to take your garden — quite literally — to the next level.

1. Keep it safe and sturdy with a decking balustrade

If you want your design to stand the test of time, consider conventional decking steps paired with a well-crafted balustrade. A stylish balustrade is a great way of enhancing existing or new decking to give it that stylish finishing touch. Plus, they're designed to make your deck safer to use and to stop you falling off it!  

There are all kinds of decking balustrade ideas to choose from — including simple timber kits, sleek metal designs, and contemporary glass finishes. Not only will each of these provide your decking with additional support and safety, but some raised decks might even be required to have them to meet Building Regulations. 

2. Use different coloured edging to create a ‘picture-framing’ effect

Buck tradition and opt for something a little different like this bold design scheme by Millboard Decking. It makes clever use of different coloured decking board to create a ‘picture-framing’ effect to highlight particular areas. Not only does this design make a stylish statement but it also helps to break up large expanses of decking and delineates different areas of your garden. 

Painting decking in contrasting colours is a great way of adding a little personality to your outdoor space. Just make sure you are selecting the best decking paint for the job and you are properly preparing your deck for painting ahead of time. 

3. Introduce sweeping curved steps 

If you're worried about your decking steps looking boxy or square, try introducing a curved step into your design. These sweeping organic shapes lend a timeless elegance to modern and urban gardens and can add to a sense of spaciousness if you're working around small decking ideas. 

"In a natural landscape, nothing beats a sweep of beautifully executed curved steps in warm organic tones," says Tris Simmons, Chief Marketing Officer at Millboard. "The key to this distinctive look is the use of flexible edgings and fascia’s that can be used to form the fronts of steps. The flexibility of the Plas-Pro subframe allows curved steps to be created with ease, helping achieve the perfect curved surface finish whilst saving time."

4. Light the way, one step at a time

Every garden decking terrace needs lighting since it will give your garden an enhanced feeling of style and finesse whilst also making it safer during the darker evenings.

“Simple micro LED lights recessed either side of decking steps can be used to highlight changes in elevation that you may not easily see at night,” explains Karl Harrison, the Trex decking pro. “You could also attach LED strip lights to the underside of decking edging to give the illusion that the steps are floating”.

Karl also suggests introducing other decking lights ideas, such as spike lights placed in planters or planting beds in and around the steps, as these lights are easy to install and can be placed almost anywhere in the soft landscaping. “Warm white coloured lights will add to the romance of the garden, as they appear softer and easier on the eye when compared to bright white illumination”.

5. Step down to a kitchen amphitheatre

"Steps can double up to provide seating, to make the most of restricted space," explains Tris from Millboard. "In the design above, a clever cooking nook has been carved into the deck, creating an elegant cooking area with built-in seating. This curved kitchen ‘amphitheatre’ has been created with flexible edging and boards cut along their length to create a fanned-out board design effect."

6. Create a sunken decking area to relax and unwind

If outdoor kitchens aren't your thing, then why not create a sunken decking area where you can kick back and enjoy the sunshine? Opt for extra wide decking steps in these sunken spaces as they can double as seating if you're tight on space. Introduce soft outdoor textiles like padded cushions and consider highlighting the space with colourful borders or a small balustrade for added safety. 

7. Elevate your decking with cascading steps

Cascading decking steps are a popular design feature as they can easily wrap around a deck or the edges of a deck. They also provide a real show stopping finish that can take your garden design to the next level (pun intended) and add to an overall sense of grandeur.

Don't fall victim to common decking mistakes. If you're going to commit to a cascading steps design you need to make sure the deck itself is big enough to make this work. Cascading steps often work best when they interlock with decking platforms like the deck pictured above with a cleverly built-in hot tub.

8. Keep things tidy with integrated steps

A cohesive and neat look can be achieved by considering how your steps align with garden outbuildings. In the design above, NeoTimber decking has built integrated steps that flow down from this stylish home office. The neat appearance of these steps enhances the overall appeal of the space and maintains a sense of order and harmony.

9.  Use slip-and trip-resistant steps for added practicality 

The age old debate of wood decking vs composite comes into play when considering the practicalities of decking steps. 

"Making steps as slip-free as possible is important," explains Tris from Millboard. "Bear in mind that timber can be slippery when wet, especially if it is not regularly maintained. If this is a concern, look for a composite material that doesn’t contain any wood to reduce the likelihood of algal or fungal growth, and ask for the wet slip-resistance rating of the material you are considering using. Additionally, you could opt for a product that has a softer, pliable surface, such as Millboard which has a Lastane top layer; a material akin to that used in the soles of trainers".

If you do opt for timber decking steps, learn how to clean decking without damaging it and you should avoid slippery surfaces under foot. 

10. Plant colourful floral borders around your steps

Add a burst of life by planting colourful floral borders around your decking steps. Vibrant planting or even painting decking with lively hues can transform ordinary steps into stunning design features that uplift the garden's entire mood. A different colour trim can also delineate the steps more clearly, helping to prevent trips.

Knowing what decking maintenance jobs to carry out and when to do them is key to ensuring that your carefully planned decking ideas are worthwhile. 

Without the right upkeep, not only will the appearance of your decking suffer over time, but the materials themselves could also deteriorate far quicker than if you make the effort to give the deck a little TLC from time to time. 

Here, we take a look at the tasks you should be carrying out to keep your decking looking great and performing brilliantly — both those that should be carried out  frequently as well as those tasks that require doing only a couple of times a year. 

Why is decking maintenance important?

How long does decking last? According to Ronseal, with the right care and maintenance you can expect timber decking to last for between 15 and 30 years — however, the better you look after it, the longer it will look great and perform well for you. 

Common problems with decking include:

• Rotten deck posts and boards
• Cracked or split boards
• Warped or twisted boards
• Fading or discolouration
• Wobbly and unstable balustrade
• Slippery build-up of algae
• Dirt accumulation

Thankfully all of these can be prevented or remedied by regularly checking your deck over and carrying out maintenance and repair as and when it is needed — the worst thing you can do is leave it as the job will be much harder when you do finally get round to tackling it. 

How often should I clean my decking?

Experts recommend checking over your decking on a weekly basis, looking out for damage, a build up of dirt and any other worrying signs. 

While a weekly sweep is a great way to keep your deck problem-free, when it comes to cleaning it, there is usually no need to do this so frequently. 

"As a rule of thumb, we recommend regularly cleaning your composite decking boards monthly with dishwashing liquid and water to retain the appearance of your decking and ensure its longevity," says Allan Jeffery, managing director at Ultra Decking.

When it comes to washing a timber deck, it is recommended that this be done once a year. Of course, this will depend on the weather conditions, the position of your deck and whether or not you have included any patio cover ideas over your decking space, which will go some way towards protecting it from the elements. 

"Remember that the location of your decking can greatly affect the amount your decking needs cleaning," says Allan Jeffery. "For example, if you have lots of trees over your decking boards, this will lead to more debris on your decking surface that needs to be cleaned."

1. Regularly clean your decking

The number one job you should be carrying out to keep your decking in tip top condition is cleaning. 

"Decking should be periodically cleaned from a safety perspective but also to help with longevity, as a build up of moss and lichen can cause it to become slippery and dangerous," says Leigh Barnes of Jacksons Fencing

"The main reason decking becomes slippery is the growth of mould and fungus," says Allan Jeffrey. "While these can’t naturally grow on composite decking, they do grow on fallen leaves, pollen, and debris."

Don't make the mistake of thinking that it is only timber decking that needs cleaning — composite decking will also require some care and attention. 

"Cleaning your composite decking is essential in order to keep your decking looking beautiful all year round," says Allan Jeffery. "You must ensure that you clean your decking correctly so that you don’t damage the surface finish of the decking boards."

But how to clean decking? Ultra Decking suggest brushing composite decking before using a mix of ammonia-free soap and lukewarm water to lightly scrub the deck with a soft brush before thoroughly rinsing it off with your garden hose. 

When it comes to cleaning timber decking, Leigh Barnes from Jacksons Fencing has some great advice.

"We recommend a gentle washing with slightly soapy water and sponge to remove dirt and cobwebs," says Leigh. "A very light abrasive such as a nylon kitchen scourer can be used along the grain. Do not rub against the grain as it is likely to leave marks."

2. Clean up spills straight away

If anything gets spilt on your decking be sure to deal with it straight away to avoid it turning into an ingrained stain.

"If you happen to spill grease, oil, or food on your composite decking, make sure to clean it right away," says Allan Jeffery. "The longer it takes for you to clean it, the more chance that the oils will soak into the composites, which will cause eventual damage to your decking."

This is also important in the case of timber decking, although should stains have soaked in you can always sand the timber back before refinishing it with your chosen decking oil or stain.  

3. Refinish timber decking regularly

Timber decking can be oiled, stained or painted in order to prolong its life but don't assume that this is something that only needs to be carried out when laying decking — it should be performed periodically for the decking to stay in good condition. 

According to tdca (Timber Decking and Cladding Association), sealers containing silicone or wax additives, designed to protect wood against water ingress, should be reapplied every year or so, while translucent stains should be refreshed every two to three years. Prefer the idea of painting decking? tdca suggest that solid stains and paints can be expected to last around five years and point out that they will need to be sanded or, in some cases, stripped before a new coat is applied.

4. Deal with rotten boards swiftly

If you notice that any of your decking boards, joists or posts are looking a little spongey or rotten, it is crucial that you don't leave the problem to get worse, otherwise all those initial decking costs you paid out could be wasted. 

"If you notice a broken or rotting decking board, make sure to replace it immediately," says Allan Jeffery. "Not doing so can infect the surrounding boards. It also presents a safety risk if left untreated."

You should be on the look out for some tell-tale signs that signify there may be rotten areas, including visible rotting, soft and spongey areas, bubbling paint, crumbling sections of timber and holes in the wood. 

If you catch the rot quickly, remove the rotten boards, joists or posts before treating the wood and replacing with new sections as required. 

"It’s essential that you use timber that has been treated correctly for in-ground contact when building a deck," points out Leigh Barnes. "Decking posts and joists should be more heavily treated with a quality timber treatment, as these are going to be touching the ground and therefore more susceptible to rot and insect attack. The posts and joists that make up the foundations of the deck are integral to the longevity, as if even one post or joist fails, the integrity of the whole deck could be compromised." 

5. Don't let water accumulate on your decking

It is really important not to let water pool on your decking, whether it is timber or composite decking ideas you have opted for. 

"Composite decking is a water-resistant material, but this does not mean it won’t absorb moisture if fully submerged in water," says Allan Jeffery. "To properly care for your composite decking, avoid any build-up of water on the deck surface and ensure water drains off the deck easily."

After a lot of rainfall it is a good idea to sweep water off your deck using a stiff-bristled garden broom.

6. Regularly sweep your deck

This is a simple job requiring minimal effort yet it could make all the difference to the longevity of your decking. 

Carrying out a weekly sweep of your deck to remove dirt, debris and fallen leaves will lessen the likelihood of of a build-up of moisture and bacteria — both of which can cause mould and rot to take hold. Not only will regularly sweeping your deck keep it in good condition, but it will also look better when cleaned.

7. Clean up throughly after a meal

If you intend on using your deck as somewhere to sit and enjoy an outdoor meal, it is really important that any food and drink spills are dealt with quickly. Not only will leaving food and sticky drink splashes attract all kinds of unwanted garden pests, such as wasps and rodents, but it could also cause damage to your decking. 

"Homeowners using their decking as a cooking and dining area should always check for grease stains. If you notice an oil or grease stain on the decking surface, clean it immediately," says Allan Jeffery. "Remove the grease stain with vinegar and baking soda. Use the baking soda and vinegar mixture to gently scrub the affected area with a decking brush."

You could also use a specialist decking cleaner, such as Roxil 200 Wood & Patio Cleaner from Amazon. 

8. Use pressure washers with caution

Although it might be tempting to break out the pressure washer to take the elbow grease out of cleaning your decking, this is not always the wisest route as even the best pressure washers could cause damage to both timber and composite decking. 

"We only recommend using a pressure washer as a last resort when cleaning your composite decking," warns Allan Jeffery. "Although quick and convenient, pressure washing your decking can cause further damage to the deck’s surface when not used correctly or with caution. 

"If you are using a pressure washer on your composite decking, ensure you don’t go too close to the deck surface, as this can distort the appearance of the boards. Additionally, you will need to make sure the setting of the pressure washer is low so as not to damage the decking boards."

In the case of timber decking, Leigh Barnes of Jacksons Fencing also recommends proceeding with care. 

"A very light/distant cold water pressure washer can be used, but care must be taken not to damage the surface of the timber. The decking will lighten in colour when moss has effectively been removed."

9. Keep gaps in decking clear

Don't forget to clean out the gaps between decking boards as well as the boards themselves — particularly the expansion gaps that should have been left around the perimeter of the deck when it was installed (interestingly one of the most common decking mistakes people make is to overlook leaving these gaps.) 

"If the gaps are clogged, it can hinder the water flow of the decking," explains Allan Jeffery of Ultra Decking. "A regular cleaning schedule should include the removal of dirt and debris in the spaces between the composite decking."

Brush dirt out from the gaps using a stiff bristled brush — an old toothbrush can be handy when it comes to particularly tricky areas. 

10. Avoid using harsh chemicals when cleaning your deck

It is really important when maintaining your decking that you use the right tools and products for the job — some chemicals in certain cleaning products could affect the appearance of your timber or composite boards while others could actually damage it.

"Avoiding harsh chemicals such as bleach is imperative when maintaining your composite decking," says Allan Jeffery. "Bleach is a corrosive substance that will not only distort the colour and appearance of your boards but can weaken the structure and lead to structural failures, such as decking collapse.

"Additionally, bleach can be corrosive to metals, so not only will it distort your composite boards, but it can corrode the framing of your decking, leading to an expensive and time-consuming reinstallation and replacement process," continues Allan. "It is best to stick to warm soapy water when cleaning any stains you discover on your composite decking."

The same applies to timber decking, where a solution of slightly soapy water applied with a soft nylon kitchen scourer should do the trick. 

Alternatively, use a deck cleaner recommended for the type of deck you have.

Raised decking ideas can be the perfect solution for a number of landscaping dilemmas, helping to overcome the challenges faced by owners of sloping gardens as well as being a useful way of defining and zoning a space.  

If you were thinking that decking ideas are limited to those with more modern garden design schemes then this round up should help change your mind — decking comes in all kinds of styles meaning that whether you have your heart set on a pretty cottage garden design or a contemporary masterpiece, there will be something to suit your needs. 

We've rounded up our favourite ideas, from those formed using composite decking to designs forged using timber — check them out to get your garden project started. 

Which raised decking ideas are right for you?

It is important to bear in mind that your decking needs to look in proportion to the size of your garden as well as any other structures or features within the space. 

"Make sure you carefully plan how much of your garden you want to cover with decking," say the experts at Garden Buildings Direct. "Too little and you won’t have enough space to fit furniture and planters on. But too much and you can lose the natural feel of the garden — leaving no space for wildlife to flourish."

Before you begin formulating ideas, it is wise to familiarise yourself with how to build a raised deck. 

“The first stage is planning — think about how wide you want the decking to span, and importantly how tall it needs to be," advises Allan Jeffrey, Managing Director at Ultra Decking. 

Once you have a clear idea of where your deck will be located within your garden, the size you need it to be and your budget, you can begin to build up some ideas of how you want it to look.

1. Vary the heights of your decking for added interest

Brand new decking or paving can be lacking a little in character before it has had a chance to weather in, so adding in visual interest to its design will really help. 

When it comes to raised decking, there is no reason why it has to be the same height all over — in fact varying the levels is a fantastic way to break up an expanse of decking. This not only works from the perspective of appearance, but also on a more practical front. Different levels helps to 'zone' the decking meaning you can have separate areas for different uses, such as dining or sunbathing. 

Do make sure that you find out how to make decking non slip if you like this idea — you don't want to find yourself slipping down steps. 

The decking here is composite, from Ultra Decking. 

2. Use a wraparound raised deck to maximise views

One of the best uses of raised decking is to make the most of any outstanding views — if you've got them then you really want to flaunt them.

A raised deck creates an elevated platform from which to enjoy really far reaching vistas and if you are lucky enough to have a house that has views from all angles, creating a deck that wraps around the sides of the property with the best of these really makes sense. 

In the case of this stunning contemporary self build, the owners have done all they can to ensure their views can be fully appreciated from all angles — along with high levels windows and plenty of glazing, a raised timber deck projecting from the rear of the property provides the perfect vantage point. 

3. Form a balcony from a raised deck

Okay, it isn't exactly a raised deck but there is actually only a small difference between some types of balconies and raised decks. If you are considering constructing a raised deck then you may well like to think about adjoining it to your house in order to create a platform leading from the upper storeys of your home — effectively building a balcony.

The main difference between most raised decks and balconies is that balconies will almost always be covered with a roof and surrounded by railings or balustrades of some kind.

4. Keep railings lightweight to avoid blocking light

Depending on the height of your raised decking, railings or balustrades could be necessary in order to avoid nasty accidents from occurring. Additionally, the right decking balustrade ideas can really add a more polished 'finished' look to decking. 

Make sure that whatever type of balustrading you use both ties in with the design of your deck as well as not blocking any light from the spaces inside your house. Here, the pale timber decking, laid in an eye-catching herringbone pattern, has been surrounded by lightweight railings made up of timber posts and thin metal wires. 

5. Create shaded areas over your decking

Any decking, raised or otherwise, can really benefit from the addition of some patio cover ideas. Consider constructing a pergola or fitting awning over your deck — either over just one section that will most benefit from shade, or over the whole thing. 

Here, the timber deck has been split into various zones thanks to the clever use of a partially enclosed pergola. This has created a shady retreat, but also allows any sun worshippers the opportunity to top up their tan elsewhere on the deck. The raised planter further defines the space. 

6. Inject instant character by laying decking diagonally

When it comes to how to lay decking, there is no reason at all why your decking has to be installed in straight lines — some of the most visually striking decks are created by laying decking planks in interesting patterns, such as herringbone or, as has been done here, diagonally. 

While the direction that decking boards are laid in will obviously have a huge effect on the final appearance of your new feature, it can also play a part in how well it performs on a practical level. 

"Install decking boards in the opposite way to the direction of travel," advises Leigh Barnes at Jacksons Fencing. "This will increase the slip resistance and give you more grip."

7. Opt for composite decking to minimise maintenance

Composite decking is a great choice for those looking for an alternative to timber — it tends to offer greater slip resistance than timber when wet which is definitely something to think about in the case of raised decking. 

When it comes to wood decking vs composite, one of the main draws of composite for many people is its low maintenance requirements. 

“Composite decking requires far less upkeep and maintenance than other decking options," says Allan Jeffrey, founder of Ultra Decking. "Unlike wood, it doesn’t need regular treating, staining or painting, and the colour doesn’t fade as quickly as wood."  

8. Use decking to extend your spaces

Raised decking is the perfect solution for those after sloping garden ideas, avoiding the need for steps or excavating tonnes of soil and a brilliant way of connecting your interior spaces to the garden.

If you are creating an extension with glazed patio doors, or are perhaps fitting bifold or sliding doors to your existing spaces and your garden slopes away from the house, a raised deck will mean you can step seamlessly out from your house and into your garden. In warmer weather, this effectively extends your interior spaces once the doors are flung open. 

9. Use a raised deck as a walkway

Raised decking does not have to be viewed only as an alternative for those previously only considering patio ideas — it can also be used to provide a more practical purpose in navigating your way around the garden. 

Here, a raised deck now provides a kind of jetty, out from the small terrace and into the garden. This not only makes it easier for the homeowners to make their way out of the house and into the garden, but also adds visual interest and an additional dimension to the elevation of the house. 

10. Consider a curved raised deck

Decks don't have to be square or rectangular — curved decking can look really beautiful, add interest and in some cases will be a much better solution than lots of straight lines. 

Curves work well in both small and large gardens. In larger spaces they tend to soften any harsh lines, while for those seeking small garden design ideas they can be easier to navigate and take up less visual space therefore making the whole area feel bigger. 

When used in the design of a raised deck, a curved area makes the space feel more private and encourages a different way of moving around the garden. 

11. Paint your raised deck to give it definition

If you are going to the trouble of building a raised deck then it makes sense to ensure all eyes are drawn to it and that it stands out as a garden feature of note. 

Whether you have an existing deck in need of a makeover, or are creating a new one from scratch, painting decking is a great idea — plus it could help your deck last longer by protecting it. 

Do be sure to thoroughly clean your decking before you begin, sand and prime. It also makes sense to use a paint specifically for this purpose. 

12. Break up a large deck with different levels

The last thing you want is for your new deck to look overwhelming and to visually dominate the rest of your garden design — and this needs to be a major consideration when building a raised deck which will obviously be set higher up than the rest of the space. 

In the case of larger decks, varying the heights of the decking works to break up the look of the space and separate it out into different zones. 

Here, Habitat+ Grey Composite Deck boards from B&Q have been used to create a split level area that follows the natural lines of the garden. 

13. Use decking to make the most of a sunny spot

If there is one particular area of your garden that sees the best of the sunshine throughout the day then this is the one to ensure you can enjoy all year round — and what better way to do this than by creating a raised deck here?

"Adding a raised deck to the corner of your garden that gets the sun will help maximise sunlight," says Leigh Barnes, of Jacksons Fencing. "Raising the height even just by a few inches can help extend the hours of sunlight you get, and raise you above any obstructions like fence panels or trees."

14. Surround your decking with raised planters

Do consider your planting scheme alongside the creation of your raised decking — it will really bring it to life, soften the edges and can help define its boundaries. Your choice of plants can also bring out and enhance your decking colour ideas, as well as making the whole space feel more private. 

Here, a raised deck leading directly off from the house, has been surrounded with matching raised planters. The dazzling white pebbles and architectural style of the plants tie in with the design perfectly. 

15. Match your decking to your cladding

For a nice, uniform look, do consider the cladding materials you have used on your house if the raised deck will be attached to the property — it really will become part of the overall design and so it makes sense to tie the two together visually.

Here, this beautiful new oak frame self build, by Border Oak, features a small raised deck, accessed by French doors. Using a wood that coordinates with the timber cladding helps to bring the whole thing together perfectly. 

16. Finish off a garden pond with raised decking

Garden ponds look fantastic, encourage wildlife into your garden and really bring a sense of tranquility to the spaces they grace. 

In order to enjoy a pond fully, however, you want to be able to access it from all sides, no matter how wet and boggy the ground may get underfoot. For this reason, surrounding a pond with a raised deck makes so much sense. 

Here, decking from Jacksons Fencing has been used not only to create a relaxing lounging area, but also as a jetty from which to take a dip in this natural swimming pool.

Exactly how long does decking last? Are some materials better suited to being used for decking than others? How can you stretch the life of your decking? We have the answers to all these questions and more. 

Your decking ideas will form a large part of not only how your garden looks, but can also completely transform how you use it. With the right treatment, a deck can provide an al fresco dining spot, a relaxing retreat to watch the sun set or somewhere that can extend your indoor living spaces when the weather allows. However, being constantly exposed to the elements means that the materials you choose to build your decking from need to be capable of withstanding everything the UK climate throws its way.

In this guide, we ask the experts how long decking can be expected to last, which materials are the most durable option and how you can look after your new deck to ensure it brings you enjoyment for many years to come. 

How long does decking last?

In order to get the very most out of your new deck and to keep it looking as good as new for as long as possible, there are several steps you will need to take.

"Decking should be periodically cleaned from a safety perspective but also to help with longevity, as a build up of moss and lichen can cause it to become slippery and dangerous," says Leigh Barnes of Jacksons Fencing. If you are wondering how to clean decking, Leigh has several tips.

"We recommend a gentle washing with slightly soapy water and sponge to remove dirt and cobwebs. A very light abrasive such as a nylon kitchen scourer can be used along the grain. Do not rub against the grain as it is likely to leave marks. A very light/distant cold water pressure washer can be used, but care must be taken not to damage the surface of the timber. The decking will lighten in colour when moss has effectively been removed."

"To maximise the lifespan of any decking material, regular maintenance is essential, as is avoiding harsh cleaning chemicals or ice removers, and minimising exposure to extreme heat or cold can also help to prolong the lifespan of decking," says Allan Jeffrey.

So, you know how to look after your decking, but if you are still at the stage of deciding between decking or a paved patio and are worried about the longevity of decking, what do you need to know?

How long does wooden decking last?

When it coms to how long timber decking can be expected to last, according to the experts, it all comes down to its quality and how well it has been treated. 

"Wood decking tends to last between 10 and 20 years, or longer depending on the upkeep and conditions," says Allan Jeffrey at Ultra Decking. "Sealing your decking well, and regular maintenance will help it last longer." Painting decking can also help extend its life. 

"Good quality timber decking that has been properly treated can last for 25 years and longer," says Leigh Barnes. "It’s essential that you use timber that has been treated correctly for in-ground contact when building a deck."

It isn't just the visible elements of the decking you need to think about though. "Decking posts and joists should be more heavily treated with a quality timber treatment, as these are going to be touching the ground and therefore more susceptible to rot and insect attack," points out Leigh Barnes. "The posts and joists that make up the foundations of the deck are integral to the longevity, as if even one post or joist fails, the integrity of the whole deck could be compromised.  

"Look out for a long lifetime guarantee as this will ensure the manufacturer has treated the timber correctly."

Which wood is best for decking?

If you have your heart set on a timber deck you will probably be wondering which is the best wood for decking.

"High quality pressure treated softwood is the best, most affordable type of wood for timber decking," advises Leigh Barnes. "It’s versatile and strong, and if treated correctly will last just as long as other types of wood and even plastic decking."

"Hardwood decking is much more durable than softwood decking," say those in the know at Ultra Decking. "However, unlike softwoods, they are much rarer and come from slow-growing trees. Because of this, they are generally more expensive than softwoods."

"Grooved timber decking will offer the most slip resistance although there are also options to add fixed lines of grit aggregate in high footfall areas to help increase grip," says Leigh Barnes. "Decking boards should be installed with the grooves running in the opposite direction to the most frequent way you walk over it."

How long does composite decking last?

If it is composite decking ideas that you are most interested in then you will be pleased to hear that this is a product that has a very impressive lifespan. 

"Composite decking, made from a combination of wood fibres and plastic, can last significantly longer, with an average lifespan of 25 to 30 years, because it is less likely to rot or suffer mould and mildew," says Allan Jeffrey.

How can you extend the life of your decking?

There are plenty of ways to ensure that your decking remains looking great and performing well for many years to come. Some methods relate to maintenance while others rely on sound installation techniques. 

"When you lay your decking, accounting for expansion and contraction is important for improving the longevity of your decking, particularly in unpredictable British weather," says Allan Jeffery. "Another thing, which is less obvious, is taking care when moving furniture around your deck, as scratches can allow pockets of moisture and mildew to build."

Other decking mistakes that can affect its longevity include:

1. Laying boards in the wrong direction
2. Failing to seal the deck after installation
3. Buying poor quality screws
4. Using poor quality posts and joists for the frame
5. Forgetting to regularly clean the deck of moss, lichen and dirt

With the right decking lighting ideas you really can add another dimension to your garden design scheme — not only will the way you illuminate your deck make it useable day and night, but it can also inject character and highlight any features you particularly love.  

Once you have turned your decking ideas into a reality you will no doubt be keen to make the most of them even when the sun sets and this is where your exterior lighting comes in. There are lots of different ways to light up decking, from overhead fittings to those designed specifically for installing into a deck. Combining several different types of lighting is also a great idea that means you will be able to create a number of various moods and effects depending on how you want to use the space and at different times of day. 

Here, we have rounded up some of the most beautiful ways to light a deck so no matter what style of decking you have opted for there is bound to be something to catch your eye. 

Which decking lighting ideas are right for you?

Before making any decisions on the type of lights you are going to use to illuminate your decking, you need to carefully consider how you are planning on using the space and take into account any features on or around the deck that you want to highlight.

Just as choosing the right materials and painting decking can totally transform the look of the new space, so too can your lighting choices. For example, small recessed deck lights set around the edges of the structure really help to define a deck as a prominent garden feature, while using uplighters can draw attention to plants. Overhead fittings or spotlights can both direct the eye to key features as well as providing good general background lighting.

Here, we look at all kinds of ideas, from those that will require wiring in, and therefore need a little forward planning, to fittings that can be added easily at a later date. 

1. Define the deck with inset lights

Fitting your deck with small inset decking lights is a great way to define the space, drawing all eyes to the spot. This is also a really practical idea as it decreases the risk of falling off the edge of a raised deck as light begins to fade. Failing to light a deck well has to be of the most common decking mistakes.

Here, Saxby Drako Daylight White Polished Stainless Steel lights, available in kit from from Wickes, have been set into the edge of the decking to add a glow to the space, highlight the contemporary design of the wood and make out the edges of the raised structure. 

2. Fit overhead lighting into a roof overhang

If your deck is forming a seating spot or terrace that leads directly out from your interior spaces it is a great idea to create an overhang. Not only will this shade the deck from full sunlight and help prevent overheating inside, but it will also provide the perfect spot in which to fit some recessed downlights.

Here, the deck is lit not only from above, but also benefits from wall lights, attached to the exterior of the house. 

The best outdoor wall lights should be capable of not only giving off a good amount of general light but should also help highlight any architectural features. 

3. Hang strings of festoon lighting for a laidback look

Turn your deck into a magical retreat that everyone will gravitate to as the sun sets with a selection of sparkling lights. Fairy lights and strings of festoon lights look beautiful strung around and above decking. Use a pergola, trees or fences as hanging spots and consider solar-powered or battery operated products if you don't have access to mains power. 

You might also like to consider incorporating lighting into your decking balustrade ideas — weaving lights through railings can look very effective.

4. Add recessed spots to deck steps

You've got to grips with how to build a raised deck and may well be standing back admiring the finished article — but have you thought about how to light it?

If your deck is on multiple levels or is accessed via steps, fitting recessed deck lights into the treads and risers of the steps is a really effective way to highlight changes in level as well as working well from a practical perspective. 

These lights, from Screwfix, are available in kit form and give out a cool white light that is perfect for highlighting surrounding plants and structures. 

5. Invest in some funky light-up seating

Turn your deck into the talking point of your garden by furnishing it with some really eye-catching features and items — and if they happen to light up then even better.

From raised fire pits to illuminated furniture, there are plenty of pieces out there to choose from, but we love these Multicoloured Outdoor LED Cube Tables/Stools from Lime Lace that are operated by remote control and not only give off a great bright light but can also be used as seating or as a side table. 

6. Highlight features and textures with low level lights

Low level lighting works particularly well on decks where it can really highlight the boundaries of the space, setting it apart from the rest of the landscaping scheme. In addition, any pots, plants or flowerbeds that surround your decking, as well as your carefully-chosen decking colour ideas, can be brought to life by this kind of lighting. 

Here, Faro Saura Outdoor Bollard Lights, from Naken, have been placed to give a glow to the green foliage that spills over onto the deck.

7. Nestle stake lights into flowerbeds

If your deck is surrounded by grass or has flowerbeds butting up to it then these can make the perfect spot for stake lights. 

This is a really simply yet effective way to light up a deck, taking the idea of garden flares to another level. Stake lights are available in all kinds of designs and in heights to suit your particular space and this is the perfect option for anyone after small decking ideas too as the lights won't steal any space from the deck itself. 

These LED Metal Pathway Lights from Wayfair are solar powered meaning no electricity connection will be required and they can simply be secured into the ground.

8. Add a pop of colour with decking lights

Coloured or colour changing deck lights are a great way to add a fun finish to the space — perfect for parties or for changing the atmosphere depending on the situation. Blue tends to create a chilled, calming ambience while pinks and reds are great for livening up a gathering. 

These recessed LED deck lights, from Screwfix, are colour-changing and are remote controlled. Plus, if you are wondering how to clean decking, you might like to know that they can be jet washed so no need to worry about damaging them to get your deck sparkling. 

9. Define your deck with post lights

Post or 'bollard' lights look fantastic when used around the edges or in the corners of decking. They add a little height to the structure, shed a good amount of light over the surface of the deck and create a sense of boundary that helps to define the spot as a separate space. 

Here, the Faro Barcelona Beret Outdoor Bollard Light from Naken, with a smart dark grey aluminium finish, adds the perfect modern touch to this deck.

10. Conjure up a magical space with a wall of light

What could feel more magical that being cocooned in a swathe of tiny sparkling lights as the sun disappears? This is a brilliant idea, perfect if your deck is surrounded by a hedge, fence or wall. 

If you are wondering how to cover a boring fence then this is the ideal solution. Veiling the fence that sits behind this deck with fairy lights in a mix of warm and cool lights creates a lovely glittering effect. Here Lumify Warm White & White USB Solar Fairy Lights from Solar Centre have been used.

11. Suspend strings of bulbs from your pergola

If you have used a pergola as one of your patio cover ideas make sure you get the very most of it by suspending lights from the frame, along with climbing plants and and perhaps some form of shading, such as a sail. 

Pergolas are the perfect place from which to hang all kinds of exterior lighting, from lanterns and outdoor chandeliers to strings of fairy or festoon lights. Setting your decking lights on a timer is a great way to ensure that the space comes to life just when you want it to and avoids you having to traipse down the garden to switch them off again when bed calls. 

This Outdoor Festoon Lighting, from Sparkle Lighting is designed to be plugged in and comes with a 5m or 10m long cable. 

12. Artfully position lanterns on your deck

There are few things more enchanting in the garden than the flicker of candlelight but it can be hard to know how to get the glow in the garden. Firstly there is the matter of safety, particularly if you are placing candles near wooden structures. Secondly, there is the fact that candles are likely to be quickly extinguished by the slightest gust of wind.

If you fancy introducing candles to your decked space, choose a selection of storm lanterns to place your chosen products in and use them at different heights, around the perimeter but away from access points, and on tables. Some candle lanterns can also be hung from pergolas. 

These nautical themed circular lanterns are from Annabel James and come with a robust rope handle should you wish to hang them. 

Knowing what the most frequently-made decking mistakes are will help to ensure that your new garden seating area delivers everything you hoped it would and more. 

Beautiful decking ideas can really bring another element to gardens of all shapes, sizes and styles. However, while installing decking is a job commonly successfully undertaken on a DIY basis, there are certain pitfalls it pays to be aware of if you want to dodge decking disaster. 

There are several reasons why decking ends up going wrong, either during the laying process or a few weeks, months or years down the line — and we are here to reveal what they are. We asked the experts what errors they most often see being made in order that you can approach the task of choosing and fitting your new decking feeling confident that nothing will go awry. 

What tops the list of decking mistakes?

Before getting into anything to do with installation, it is important to realise that however well you lay your decking and however much care you have taken in its design, there is one element that could spell disaster before the project even gets underway if you mess it up — the decking you buy. A poor quality product or one that is not well-suited for what you intend on using your deck for, bought purely because of its low price tag, is always going to be a false economy.

"If you’re looking for a deck that’s going to last for an extended period of time, then it’s advisable to use good quality hardwood or opt for composite decking instead of softwood," say the experts at Garden Buildings Direct. "Hardwood and composite decking not only last a lot longer but they look great and are less likely to become a safety hazard."

In terms of decking costs, wood decking is typically cheaper than composite decking. At the lower end, wood decking products made from a softwood such as pine will cost you around £10m/2, while prices for composite decking start at around £20-30m/2. 

You can expect to pay up to four times the cost of a cheaper softwood for high quality hardwoods and composite.

Once you feel confident that you have chosen the best type of decking within your budget, ensure you get the most out of it by being wary of making the following mistakes. 

1. Laying decking the wrong way up

When it comes to how to lay decking, the side of the decking that ends up facing out really can have an effect on how well the space is going to work for you.

"Despite the common belief that you should lay deck boards with the groove side up, it’s actually more effective to have the smooth side on display," say the experts at Garden Buildings Direct. 

"This is because the grooves encourage air circulation beneath the deck which stops it from rotting. There’s no real extra grip achieved through having the ridges up and they can increase the difficulty of cleaning a wooden deck.

"These grooves might only help with water runoff if built on an angle, so if you want your decking to last a long time it’s best to have the smooth side facing upwards.” 

2. Building a deck that is too small

This might sound obvious, but getting the size of your deck right is absolutely key — not only with regards to your enjoyment of the feature, but also in how well it sits alongside the rest of your garden design. 

"Make sure you carefully plan how much of your garden you want to cover with decking," say Garden Buildings Direct. "Too little and you won’t have enough space to fit furniture and planters on. But too much and you can lose the natural feel of the garden — leaving no space for wildlife to flourish."

While there is no 'golden ratio' to adhere to, it makes sense to grab your measuring tape and and work out how much space you are going to need for all the items you want to place on your new deck — table, chairs, sun loungers, plants and so on. If you plan on fitting lights into your deck, or a pergola over, don't forget to factor in the space needed for these too. 

Finally, remember you will need circulation space on the deck — there is no point in having a dining table and chairs if you don't have the room to walk around them or pull out a chair to sit down. 

3. Failing to take movement into account

Just as when laying a wooden floor, when it comes to fitting a deck, you need to bear in mind that a degree of movement needs to be expected.

"As wood is a natural material it will expand and contract under different conditions," explain the experts from Garden Buildings Direct. "In humid conditions decking tends to expand due to the increase in water in the air, and when the moisture is drawn out this is when decking can contract. 

"Composite decking won’t change form as much as real wood. However, it can change size depending on whether it’s hot or cold. This is why it’s important to leave a gap between the boards, as it gives your deck adequate space to change without damaging the integrity of the entire structure."

Aim to leave an expansion gap of 5-8mm between each board and make sure the gap is even along the length.

4. Leaving space for unwanted deck guests

Don't turn your deck into a hotel for garden creatures by leaving space for them to get beneath.

"Underneath the deck can become a rat’s new home if you don’t make sure there aren’t any gaps for them to crawl into," say Garden Buildings Direct. "You can do this by filling in the frame of the deck with hardcore, soil or any other available material. If you want to be extra cautious, you can put chicken wire or mesh around the edge of the decking, although this may affect the overall aesthetic."

5.  Laying boards in the wrong direction

The direction in which you lay your board can have a huge effect on its final appearance as well as how well it works on a practical level. 

"Which way should you orient your decking boards in your scheme? In general, think of them like floorboards, and choose the direction that best flatters the proportions of your garden," says Homebuilding & Renovating's Assistant Editor Amy Reeves. "Decking boards tend to be run horizontally, mirroring the lines of the house and patio doors, but vertical lines will help draw the eye out into the garden." 

"Install decking boards in the opposite way to the direction of travel," advises Leigh Barnes at Jacksons Fencing. "This will increase the slip resistance and give you more grip."

6. Failing to seal the deck after installation

Choosing the right materials and installing the deck properly is just the beginning of ensuring your deck is a success — how you finish the whole thing off is also hugely important, particularly if you have opted for timber decking as opposed to composite. 

"Not sealing the deck straight away can lead to the wood weathering quickly, thus rapidly decreasing the lifespan of your deck," suggest the experts at Garden Buildings Direct. "Newly installed wood is in the best condition to be coated and sealant is easy to come by, it can be found in most DIY or hardware stores." Try No Nonsense Decking Sealer & Protector Clear from Amazon. 

Many of the best decking paints will also offer protection, slip resistance and a pop of colour. 

7. Buying poor quality screws

Your deck is only ever going to be as good as the materials you choose to hold it together — and your choice of screws and nails are really important here.

"Don’t forget about the screws!" says Leigh Barnes of Jackson Fencing. "Nails and screws are essential to any decking installation, and they should, at the very minimum, be galvanised or stainless steel. Anything less, and within a few months of rain, there will be rust marks all over your brand new decking."

Obviously the length of your screws will need to be chosen once you know the type of boards you are using — but be sure to buy decking screws.

8. Scrimping on the foundations

A well-built base is the secret to a deck that will stand the test of time. "A solid foundation is crucial to a successful deck," begins Leigh Barnes. "Using timber posts and joist that are suitably treated for life in the ground will ensure your decking will last. 

"Even if you are using alternative materials to timber for the decking boards, we always recommend timber posts and joists for the frame as it has been tried and tested over the years as the best and strongest material to support decking. Timber is also a flexible and adaptable material which is not brittle and will not break, which is important for safety reasons."

When it comes to how to build a raised deck, the foundations are more important than ever and once again, much of the success of this kind of project rests on your choice of materials. 

"The material you choose must be strong enough to take the weight of a raised deck, so pressure-treated wood or resistant softwoods, or composite lumber and metal framing are excellent options," says Allan Jeffrey, Managing Director at Ultra Decking.

9. Not checking a product's guarantee 

Deciding on the right material for your decking can be hard, particularly when it comes to the choice between wood decking vs composite. However, whichever you end up opting for, be sure to only buy a product that comes with a long guarantee. 

"Choose a product that will last," says Leigh Barnes "Decking is a permanent feature, and if it doesn’t look the part or has been poorly installed, it’ll throw your whole garden renovation off. 

"Ensure it’s been supplied with a long guarantee to avoid rot and insect attack — both of which could cause your decking to fail a few years down the line. Timber must be treated correctly for use outside and in the ground.

"If a manufacturer isn’t confident enough in their products to offer a guarantee, it’s highly likely they won’t last long, and you won’t be covered for any replacements."

10. Ignoring the deck's maintenance requirements

And the final decking mistake most commonly seen by the experts? Bad maintenance. 

There is no point in going to all the trouble and expense of installing a new deck only to find it is rotting, covered in slippery moss growth or discoloured a few months in.

"You should periodically clean any moss or lichen off the surface of the decking to prevent it from becoming hazardous," says Leigh Barnes. 

If you are wondering how to clean decking, providing you keep on top of the job you might find that all that is needed is a quick wash down with soapy water. However, after a winter of disuse, you might need a little more in the way of elbow grease and specialist deck cleaning products. You could try a product such as Cuprinol Decking Cleaner from Amazon, but if you need something a little stronger, you might need to turn to a decking stripper. 

Something like Ronseal Decking Stripper from B&Q is great if you want to give your deck a complete overhaul but be aware that it doesn't just take away dirt — any coatings, oils and stains will also be stripped away so you will be starting from scratch. 

If you’re thinking of building a new deck, you’ll probably not be thinking about planning permission for decking. And, most of the time, it's not something that you need to worry about. But, there will be times when you will need to.

Typically, your next great garden decking idea will fall under permitted development. But factors can come into play that will determine whether you need to get planning permission for your new deck. Size and height are the two common factors that will decide the outcome.

Here, the experts give you insight into what you need to know to ensure that you get planning permission if you need it.

Do you need planning permission for decking? 

Many minor improvement works to our homes are covered by permitted development, meaning you do not need to apply for planning permission. Adding decking can fall under permitted development, but there are caveats — the height and size of your decking being two.

Peter Ivanov, Gardening and plant expert at Fantastic Gardeners, says, "You’ll typically need planning permission for decking or raised platforms if the decking is more than 30cm (about 1 foot) above the ground.” He adds, “And if the decking, combined with other extensions, sheds, and outbuildings, covers more than 50% of the total garden area.”

Decking to the front of the house – the 'principle elevation' – may require planning permission too. So may decking which adversely impacts neighbouring homes (i.e. if it creates issues around privacy and overlooking).

Decking height should be measured from the lowest point of ground (even on a sloping plot) to the top of the timber or composite material. (Researching how to build decking will help you work out the finished height of a deck.)

If you're building on a sloping site or perhaps adding decking where the garden is at a different level to the house, you may find your decking will be above 30cm and as such is considered a 'raised platform' and needs planning.

"If you do need planning permission you should contact your local planning authority (LPA), which is typically part of your local council, " says Ivanov. He adds, "You can apply for planning permission directly through the UK's Planning Portal website, which simplifies the process." However, to avoid issues, consult with your council’s planning department before starting the project.

Homes in designated areas such as national parks or conservation areas, or properties where an 'Article 4 Direction' has been applied, could be subject to further restrictions.

There are other circumstances in which planning permission will be required — adding decking in the garden (or curtilage) of a listed home, for instance, will not be covered by permitted development.

Try these to help build your deck

How big can decking be without planning permission? 

Even if your planned decked area is below 30cm tall, the size of the new outdoor space will also be under consideration. Ivanov says, "Without planning permission, decking (combined with other outdoor structures) must not cover more than 50% of the total garden area surrounding the house." He adds, "This limit includes both front and back gardens, so it's essential to factor in existing sheds, outbuildings, and extensions." If this is the case, you will need to submit a planning application.

Allan Jeffrey, MD at Ultra Decking adds, "In national parks, the maximum area that can be covered more than 20m from your house is limited to 10m2."

So, if you're looking to save on decking costs, building within these restrictions should save around £250 on a planning application.

How high can I build a deck without a rail? 

A deck can be built up to 59cm high without a hand rail, but any decking higher than that will need to install a hand rail of at least 110cm above the decking board to comply with planning permission.

Tall decks might also require steps, stairs or decking balustrade ideas, which also require Building Regulations approval to ensure safety.

Why do you need planning permission for decking? 

"When you come to sell your house, you will be asked if you have planning permission for the decking [if required], which can cause complications with the sale of your property if you haven't," explains Jeffrey. "Planning permission is significant for safety and to ensure your property isn’t impacting on the environment or any neighbouring properties."

If decking has been built over the guidelines without gaining planning permission, homeowners can apply for retrospective planning permission. However, this doesn't guarantee that it will be approved, and if refused, the decking will have to be removed.

If you’re planning to add a new deck, you will need to know how much you need to budget for decking costs. Take a look at these decking composite ideas and small decking ideas for inspiration for your new deck.

Knowing how to build a raised deck can reduce any potential problems that can occur when decking closer to the ground. The damage from moisture becomes far less of a problem and the chances of any insect infestation is greatly reduced.

It also brings with it plenty of advantages, such as creating a level platform that can extend from the back of the house and bring the inside and outside closer together. And there are plenty of smart garden decking ideas that can be introduced whatever size your garden. 

So how do you make it happen? Allan Jeffrey, Managing Director at Ultra Decking gives a quick overview on how to make it happen. “The first stage is planning - think about how wide you want the decking to span, and importantly how tall it needs to be. 

"The material you use is also key - it must be strong enough to take the weight of a raised deck, so pressure-treated wood or resistant softwoods, or composite lumber and metal framing are also excellent options.”  

How to build a raised deck: A three step guide 

1. Prepare the foundation

Outline your area, and remove any grass or debris if necessary. If you are attaching a raised deck to the house, you will need to attach a joist against the wall. 

Dig your holes for each post footing at least 6 inches below the depth at which your soil freezes. Compact the bottom layer and fill with a few inches of gravel if you want to improve drainage. Then, fill the holes with structural strength concrete - attach the metal post anchor at the top and let it set for a day or two. You will need to make sure all the post anchors are level with one another, before the concrete sets. 

2. Attach beams, posts and joists 

Once the concrete is dry, fasten the decking posts to the metal footing anchor using structural screws. Then, start attaching the support beams to the posts, again making sure they are level (use a long level for this). 

You will need to cut the decking posts to appropriate lengths. Next, attach the rim joists - they are the outer frame of your decking. Make sure to square it before screwing it in place.

The next step is to move on to the floor joists. Mark the joist spacing along the support and attach the floor joists using decking brackets. You can use bracing when necessary. Lastly, trim them according to length and attach the front rim joist.

3. Install the decking 

After building the subframe, start installing the decking boards, either inside the frame or outside the rim joists. Plan the distance between each post and attach them using bracers and anchors. Finally, install the decking boards and fix them in place. 

How do you build a raised deck on a slope? 

Building a raised deck on uneven ground is very similar to building a raised deck on level ground. But you will need to take into consideration the extent of the slope when designing your deck.

Wood is a very versatile material and easy to work compared with hard landscape materials such as brick and concrete. So it is easier to create different levels and introduce steps where needed. 

But you need to make sure that you are choosing the best wood for decking, or composite decking for what you are building. There are a few different options so make sure you choose wisely. 

What size joists should I use for decking? 

There is a common choice for decking joists, but not all decking will be the same as Allan Jeffrey explains. "The best sized joists are 4 by 2, and should be raised off the ground for better drainage and airflow. However a growing trend is 50x50 plastic battens which are extremely durable and long lasting. The types of joist that work best for you will depend on the type and material of decking used, and how much additional support it might need."

How do you attach a raised deck to your house? 

To get a sturdy and strong deck you will need to attach it to your house. This is done with what is known as a ledger. This is a piece of timber that is attached to the house with screws and bolts and forms the basis of the frame for the decking.

To do right you will need a piece of pressure treated timber that is less susceptible to moisture and will give a longer life than standard timber. To help further extend the life of the timber you can choose the best decking paint out there.  

To keep water away from the ledger you will need to flash it. This protects the ledger from the water that runs down the side of the house. You can use metal, lead or specialist tape to create the waterproof seal.  

Should deck boards run parallel to the house? 

A typical deck build will see the joists run away from the house so the decking boards will need to run parallel to the house. If the joists are running parallel to the house then the decking boards should run away from the house.

Another thing to consider is how the boards will drain away any rain water. For example, if you are using the popular grooved decking boards. This should point away from the house so the water is directed away from the house. A gradient slope should also be applied to help the water drain away. This should be around 10mm for every metre of decking board.

If you are using smooth decking boards the slope will help the water drain away naturally, but more importantly you will need a 5mm or slightly bigger gap to let the water drain away.  

Rain water can cause algae and mould to grow on the decking boards, which will make them slippery. So you need to know how to make decking non-slip so no unfortunate accidents happen.

Can I use concrete blocks instead of footings for decking? 

If you are building a large deck, footings are still a good choice. But for smaller decks you can use concrete decking blocks instead. These should be placed on a bed of gravel to ensure that you have good drainage.  

Check out our small decking ideas to help you make the most of the outdoor space that you do have.  

What should go under a deck? 

Typically there are a couple of things that should go under a deck to help it stay in good condition. Landscape fabric should go down first to help suppress any grass or weeds growing up under the deck. 

This should be topped with gravel or crushed stones to help stop the growth of greenery and with drainage. It will stop pools of water forming on a regular basis which can encourage plant growth and help keep moisture away from timber.

But timber is not the only option for decking. It's typically wood decking vs composite decking, which isn't so susceptible to moisture. But you still need at least a layer of fabric to stop unwanted grass and weeds encroaching on your decking platform.

Do I need planning permission to build a raised deck? 

This depends on the size and height of the decking. Putting up decking comes under permitted development if it fits within a certain criteria. The three key things to remember:

• The decking is no more than 30cm (12 inches) above the ground
• Along with other extensions it doesn’t cover more than fifty percent of the garden
• It doesn't go over and overhang other people's property

If your plans exceed any of these criteria you will need planning permission. There are less common criteria that may apply to your building so if unsure contact your Local Planning Authority to get clarification. 

It may seem obvious but before you even consider building a raised deck you need to think about the decking costs. If you find its not a viable option currently you won't need to worry about planning permission anyway. 

How to make decking non-slip — it is an issue likely to be on the minds of many people now that cooler, wetter weather has set in. Slippery decking is one of a number of issues that need to be addressed in our gardens during the cooler seasons, including protecting patio furniture and ensuring external woodwork remains in good condition.

Having gone to all the effort of designing and bringing to life your brilliant decking ideas, the last thing you want is to have to avoid it or warn others from walking on it for fear of going head over heels.

There are several things that cause slippery decking, all of which can be prevented with a little know-how. Whether you are in the process of choosing products and designing your new deck, or are already the proud owner of a stylish decked space, our top tips are here to ensure you can enjoy it, safely, all year round.

How to make decking non-slip: Choosing the right products

Before we get into how to make decking non-slip, it is important to bear in mind –particularly if you are yet to choose your decking – that some types of decking are less likely to become slippery underfoot than others. 

Rather than just wait for your decking to become slippery and then deal with the problem, it makes far more sense to choose a non-slip decking in the first place. 

Whether you are after composite decking ideas or prefer the idea of a timber deck, both are now available in non-slip designs. Some anti-slip decking comes pre-fitted with resin-based aggregate inserts, while other products are either made from, or are coated with, substances that prevent or inhibit the growth of algae or mould.

Non-slip decking can also feature deep grooves or some other ingrained surface pattern that will prove to be less slippery than that with a completely smooth surface.

Whatever decking you choose, ensure it has good drainage. Fitting the boards so that water can run off will prevent water from pooling.

"Keep the gaps or spaces between the boards clean to allow water to flow to the ground easily," says Allan Jeffrey, Managing Director at Ultra Decking. "Pooling of water on the deck surface can serve as a breeding ground for mould and algae."

Even choosing a non-slip decking does not always ensure that it won't become a little slimy and unsafe underfoot. Take a look at our top ways to deal with a deck that is proving a little perilous.

1. Keep decking as clean as possible

Keeping your deck clean and free from debris, such as fallen leaves, is absolutely vital if you want to prevent it from becoming slippery underfoot. Knowing how to clean decking is also an important element in prolonging its life.

Both timber and composite decking should be kept spotless if you want it to be safe to walk on. "The main reason decking becomes slippery is the growth of mould and fungus," says Allan Jeffrey. "While these can’t naturally grow on composite decking, they do grow on fallen leaves, pollen, and debris."

If there is not too much dirt on your decking, a solution of slightly soapy water and a sponge might be all that is required. However, if the dirt is a little more set in, using a kitchen scourer along the grain might be necessary.  

Pressure washers can also come in handy here, but be sure to do you research on the best pressure washers for the job to ensure you don't cause any damage to the surface of the deck.

2. Coat it with an anti-slip covering

There are various treatments for decking designed to make them anti-slip. These include oils, paints and stains, all of which should be applied according to the manufacturer's instructions. Most of these products contain tiny particles that add an abrasive quality to the decking.

Do bear in mind that some will be better than others and, in the case of paints and stains in particular, will need to be regularly reapplied — take time to research the best decking paints around before parting with any money. 

Note that some oils and stains of this type will only be suitable for use on timber decking — if you want to use a product such as this to prevent composite decking from becoming slippery you should first check with the supplier that it will not cause any damage. In any case, many composite products are supplied with anti-slip coatings pre-applied.

3. Apply gripping strips

A popular way to ensure decking stays non-slip is to use anti-slip decking tape or strips with an abrasive surface. Although tape can be very effective, abrasive decking strips tend to be a more permanent solution as they are designed to be screwed to the decking boards as opposed to stuck on. 

That said, if you are looking for a very quick and cost-effective way to stop your deck becoming an ice-rink, tape is a good solution — be sure only to apply this kind of tape to a scrupulously clean deck and choose a dry, sunny day.

Gripping strips are often designed to sit within the grooves of decking so be sure to check that the product you choose is the correct width for your style of decking. 

4. Pay attention to the direction of your decking 

If you have chosen grooved decking boards, the direction in which they are laid and fixed is really important when it comes to preventing them from becoming slippery.

"Decking boards should be installed with the grooves running in the opposite direction to the most frequent way you walk over it," says Leigh Barnes of Jacksons Fencing. Laying it in this way makes the most of its ribbed texture when it comes to ensuring it doesn't becoming slippery.

5. Fit a cover over your deck

Using a cover over your deck is a really good way to prevent leaves and debris from falling on it, as well as preventing water from pooling here. 

Take a look at the various patio cover ideas out there, including awning and pergolas. Canvas sails and gazebos are another good option but consider how well they will fare in high winds and very wet or cold weather — you don't want have to be taking them in just when you need them the most. 

6. Try this paint hack

Painting decking is a low-cost and effective way of transforming its appearance as well as prolonging its life. For a low cost way to make an existing deck less slippery, you could try this simple (and widely used) paint hack: Just add sand to paint or stain.

Ensure the deck is dry and clean before combining four parts paint to one part sand and stir until it is completely mixed in. You can then apply with either a brush or roller. A final coat of paint will mask the appearance of the sand.

Although this is a very handy and easy solution to a slippery deck, be aware that it is not necessarily the best long-term solution.

...and finally — skip the chicken wire!

Although fitting chicken wire to a deck to make it anti-slip was once an idea that was often recommended, it really should be avoided — you really don't want to go forking out on decking costs only to ruin it.

Not only does fixing chicken wire to decking boards simply provide another spot for dirt to become lodged, but should it come loose (which it inevitably will over time) it can become a dangerous tripping hazard. Sharp sections of wire sticking up could also injure pets and wildlife — as well as bare-footed garden guests. 

The best garden decking ideas are those that really help you make the most of your outdoor area. Decking is a great choice for a garden design, as it’s easy to install and look after, while also giving you plenty of options of styles, colours and more.

Whether you go for a traditional timber decking or a modern composite version, there are so many clever garden decking ideas around to inspire your space. 

Take a look below at all of the material options available, and some great design ideas to make the most of your space. 

Where to start with garden decking ideas

“Outdoor decking provides a stylish element to your outdoor space. Building a decking works well for any garden, regardless of the size and provides an attraction and practical aspect to your garden" says Christopher Ray, outdoor category manager at B&Q. 

"When choosing your decking there are a number of factors to consider, perhaps try using deck tiles for smaller areas, such as balconies and paths as they are easy to fit and give your garden a quick and simple makeover without complications."

"When choosing your decking, you will need to consider how it will aesthetically match with your existing exterior," adds Nick Whiley, project director at Trekker Global. "You will also need to consider how much time you think you can allocate in looking after and maintaining your decking."

"If your aim is to create a more spacious outdoor area, try opting for traditional timber decking as they suit all types of projects and are great for raised or large decks," concludes Christopher Ray. "However, if you’re looking for easy, long- lasting and stress-free decking, composite deck boards would be your best bet.”

1. Update existing decking for an inexpensive refresh

Although your existing decking might look tired – think sun-bleached boards, flaky paint or moss growth – that's not to mean that's the end of its lifespan. 

Painting decking to give a new lease of life is a cost-effective and simple job to undertake. 

"The decking colour is key to the overall look of your outdoor space," says Trex's Karl Harrison. "The right decking colour can enhance your scenery, complement your home or make your deck stand out. However, it’s best to leave the colour alone on a composite, it may invalidate the warranty if you apply any chemicals to the surface."

By using the best decking paints to add some colour or protect the wood from further damage, you will be creating a modern, welcoming outdoor space to use for years to come. 

2. Choose a long-lasting composite decking

“One major trend we have noticed is that homeowners are thinking hard about sustainability and building things to last," says Caroline Birdstall, director of marketing at Millboard. 

"Buyers are being more discerning when they choose materials — they want to know what they will look like 10 years down the line. Will they enhance their outdoor space long-term? Will it be difficult to maintain? 

This is where composite decking ideas can come into play.

"Composite decking – especially solid composite decking, which is generally a higher quality than their hollow counterparts – have a significantly longer lifespan than timber or pure plastic decking," adds Jessica Brown, digital marketing manager at Ecodek. 

"The combination of quality, solidity and durability means solid composite decking boards do not need to be replaced as often, and usually carry longer warranties, providing you with peace of mind that you’ve purchased a superior product."

3. Build a wrap-around corner deck

Use decking to create a split between the house and a lawned area by wrapping it all the way around the exterior walls. 

For a truly seamless look, find out how to lay decking at the same level as the lawn or door thresholds so there are no awkward steps or transitions between the spaces.

The size of the area will naturally increase decking costs, but the result will provide a usable and fuss-free garden. 

4. Clean up old decking for a new look

If you're unsatisfied with a currently decked area, but don't want to spend on an entirely new structure there are some essential steps to take to refresh the garden space, staring with finding out how to clean decking properly. 

This involves using the best pressure washer you can afford to spray away any moss, algae and flaking paint. 

5. Create a unique space in a small garden with decking

Attention to detail will keep small decking ideas looking modern and fresh. From lighting and seating to creating a small firepit for that extra special feeling — compact spaces respond well to unique ideas. 

"It is often the finishing touches that take a deck to the next level in the eyes of homeowners," says Caroline Birdstall of Millboard. "For instance, adding edging to decking allows you to easily incorporate under-lip lighting for a really professional finish to entertaining spaces. 

"Also, built-in seating using the same material can create a pared-back aesthetic with the illusion of space — very useful for smaller urban gardens."

What's more, the raised beds of this garden space don't just provide an interesting colour, the tall plants also create a room-like feeling and the beds provide a backrest for guests. 

6. Build a decked terrace area in sloping gardens

Decking can be used to great effect when creating a terraced area in gardens with a slope. 

With a steep sloping garden down from this house, the only option for useable outdoor space directly to the rear of this property was to create a raised platform with decking balustrade ideas to keep the space safe. 

At such a height, creating a retaining wall terrace would have been impossible, so decking provided a simple option, with the owner and his son building the platform and using Hyperion decking from Envirobuild with a safety rail to create a large area of patio for the family to use. 

Bear in mind that you may need planning permission if your decking exceeds 30m above the ground.

7. Get the colour right for a modern decked area

"If you want something classic and traditional, I’d recommend hard-wearing but warm wood tones," says Jimmy Englezos, Ronseal’s senior product manager, "but if you’re looking to treat your decking, fence or shed for a more contemporary feel, greys, greens blues and even purples are all great for making an impact or adding a pop of colour." 

While light decking colour ideas, like this from Ronseal, are perfect for bouncing light around a small garden, remember that it will show dirt and grime far more than when using a dark colour for decking. 

8. Buy decking with a view towards durability

Wood decking vs composite is a new, but important debate to be had when it comes to new designs for an outdoor space. 

Timber has always been used traditionally. Species such as oak and teak can provide a delicate yet contemporary finish and birch, elm, maple and cherry are firm favourites are good reason — although often come with the price to match. 

"When choosing your decking material, do bear in mind that even the best wood decking does require regular cleaning and oiling/staining to protect it and keep it looking good and that can be quite time-consuming," says Millboard's Caroline Birdstall.

"Composite decking is a highly durable and eco-friendly alternative to wood that is made from recycled materials, including industrial sawdust and reclaimed plastics. Unlike wood, composite decking resists fading, scratching and mold – and won’t rot, warp, crack or splinter, regardless of harsh weather conditions or daily wear and tear," agrees Karl Harrison. 

9. Introduce planting to soften your decking design

"Colour and scent is important when it comes to patio or decking planting," explains Chris Bonnet from Gardening Express. "Also think about what types of plants you want to grow. Are you looking for flowers? Foliage? Do you want edibles or are you looking for something really low maintenance?

"If you’re after colour, try Hibiscus trees with their beautiful candyfloss blooms, or the eye-catching Canna Cannova Yellow. Other options include the maroon / crimson Cosmo astrosanguineos Chocamocha which have a chocolate aroma and colourful geraniums which will flower through the summer to late autumn.

"For edibles, salad vegetables are all great to grow, especially if your patio or deck gets lots of sun, and can be grown in containers."

This decking scheme, created with Sadolin's Decking Stain & Protector in Golden Brown, has a lot of points of interest; however, it's the patio edging ideas and integrated planting that's the most eye-catching in this design. By sinking planters into the decking, this garden breaks up the expanses of timber used for a more varied and interesting look. 

10. Add character with pre-weathered garden decking

While the classic timber style might be the first to come to mind when thinking of garden decking and patio ideas, there's plenty of different types and styles for any kind of outdoor space. So, if you want to bring a little more character to your garden scheme, why not consider a more interesting decking design?

"We have seen a huge increase in homeowners wanting high end,' show-stopping' areas for dining and entertaining outside," details Caroline Birdstall, director of marketing at Millboard. 

This Weathered Vintage decking from Millboard delivers all the charm of reclaimed wood with the simplicity of installation and easy maintenance of a modern composite decking. 

11. Use deck tiles for a DIY solution

Save costs on a full deck structure by using deck tiles. They are great decking alternatives and can be installed on a click-fit DIY basis,  updating existing decks if the surface is looking tired or dated, but is still stable. 

These products can also be used on balconies or even over unappealing concrete slabs. 

12. Install decking lighting to create an outdoor entertaining space

Incorporating garden lighting ideas into your decking is both practical and helps your garden come to life at night time. By integrating spotlights into the decking, you'll not only highlight the path through your garden, but also draw attention to any changes in level that could prove potential trip hazards when out in the garden after dark. 

"By adding lighting to your new decking terrace, you naturally soften the space, make it more inviting and look super stylish," says Karl Harrison of Trex. "There are many types of lights you can use but I prefer to use simple post cap lights, recessed lights, and stair riser lights.

While it's a great idea to plan in decking lighting from the outset so that you can connect it to the mains electricity and add in a switch to control them from the house, if you're desperate to retrofit spotlights in your decking, it's possible to buy the best garden solar lights which you simply cut a hole for in your decking and pop in. 

"The best way to illuminate a decked garden is to add lighting into the planting areas. Uplighters can be used," continues Karl Harrison. "They cast shadows and add the most to the space. A garden with lighting will feel cosier during the evenings… When someone asks for that romantic touch in a garden, I always add lighting."

13. Vary levels in your Garden with decking 

Building up levels in your garden can help to add interest, zone and avoid the whole scheme looking too flat. Decking offers an easy and efficient way of building up these layers, especially when compared to the alternative of tackling the job with a shovel or building retaining walls. 

However, just remember that you can only build a decking platform up to 30cm above the ground, or else you'll need decking planning permission. 

14. Use decking to zone areas in your garden 

If you're unsure of how much decking to use, look to the layout in your garden design for inspiration. Decking is a great way to zone a particular area such as a seating or dining space, helping it to feel contained and cosy, even in a large garden. 

In this tricky triangular shaped plot, Instagram user @Rugrats.and.innovation used Composite Prime decking to create zones to demarcate different spaces within this compact plot. 

15. Play with layout ideas for your garden decking 

Which way should you orient your decking boards in your scheme? In general, think of them like floorboards, and choose the direction that best flatters the proportions of your garden. Decking boards tend to be run horizontally, mirroring the lines of the house and patio doors, but vertical lines will help draw the eye out into the garden. 

In this scheme using NeoTimber decking, a mix of vertical, horizontal and diagonal orientations have been used in the different sections of the patio, adding some variety to the look that stops the decking area looking too monotonous. 

16. Create curves for a modern decking aesthetic

Decking boards aren't limited to straight lines. If you're looking at a professional installation over DIYing, creating cool curves in your garden scheme should be simple enough, especially with modern fixings provided by composite decking manufacturers. 

"There is a trend to have your decking curved," says Karl Harrison. "This style of decking looks more organic than a straight line and feels like it should be in a garden. The edge of the decking should overhang the edge in such a way it creates a lip as it hides the join of the fascia board and looks tidy."

This is a great way to add a softer touch to your landscaping when creating a deck, and could be a great way to add in a water feature such as a pond into your scheme. 

17. Get creative with small decking ideas 

When faced with a limited garden area, installing a large decked area is usually discouraged, as it can split the lawn and make two dysfunctional spaces. 

At times like this, it pays to get creative in the way in which we think of gardens — perhaps an entirely decked outdoor spaces is actually more practical than a small turfed spot. The maintenance is now only lower, but also a completely contemporary scheme can be produced. 

In this London home, Elizabeth Sharp wanted a small swimming pool, but with a compact garden, she had to be smart to make the idea work. She maximised space available with her pool, by fitting it with a retractable cover that can also be used as decking. Clever stuff! 

What is the cheapest way to do decking? 

"The cheapest and certainly not the best solution in many cases is to use softwood," explains Trex's Karl Harrison, "but the cost of all these materials varies tremendously."

"Based on each garden situation alone will dictate the amount of work required to create each project. I assume a registered professional landscaper is providing the works and warranties for a minimum period of 10 years.

"Composite decking is fitted to a structure that has many regulations to follow carefully if you want your investment to last. Beams and joists must be constructed with the right grade of timber and fixings. Post holes need to be dug for the support posts and concrete, this all before you fit the decking. A sensible budget for a Trex® deck is from £250 to £320 plus VAT." 

"For softwood, the frame should be the same as described above. It doesn’t last as long as quality composites and needs regular treatment. A sensible cost would be from £160 to £220 plus VAT/m2."

Is it cheaper to have decking or paving? 

Generally, softwood decking is cheaper than traditional patio pavers but this can change depending on materials. For example,  composite decking might cost more than porcelain tiles from different suppliers so when working out your costs, first research the different materials in your budget price bracket. 

Remember, cheaper is not always the best option if it won't last a long or if the maintenance is much more demanding. 

What can I put on my decking to make it look nice?

Before going out and buying expensive furniture or firepits to make old decking look better, clear away the space and give the surface a thorough clean. 

It's surprising what improvements can be made to decking by giving it some much-needed TLC. Consider painting or staining discoloured wood and then consider what to put on it from there. 

Modern garden sofas are great choices for an outdoor entertaining area, while potted plants can be swapped out in winter and summer to create a welcoming spot to watch the world go by. 

The question of which is the best wood for decking may well be on your mind if you have been dreaming of a fabulous new garden seating area. The good news for you is that we have spoken to various experts in the field to get just the answers you'll need.

While decking ideas can encompass lots of styles, materials and designs, not all are suitable for every application. For your new deck to have a long life and provide you with all the al fresco enjoyment you want, you need to choose a product made from a material that is durable and easy-to-maintain, as well as being easy on the eye. 

Read on to discover which is the best wood for decking to ensure you get maximum enjoyment from your garden for many years to come. 

The Best Wood For Decking: What Are Your Needs?

Before you can decide on the best wood to choose for your new deck you need to take a few factors into consideration. 

There are many different woods that are suitable for decking, with the choice usually falling between softwoods and hardwoods, although composite decking is now a really popular option too. 

Each of these options will define not only the look of your finished deck, but also how much it will cost you, how long it will last and also the level of maintenance required. 

Everyone will have different needs so do take into account the above considerations — if you plan on painting decking, for example, your needs will be quite different to someone who is after a wood that will weather naturally over time. 

What Qualities Do The Best Woods for Decking Have? 

"When choosing timber decking, always look for a long guarantee," says Leigh Barnes of Jacksons Fencing. "Decking joists will be in contact with the ground and therefore need proper protection from rot and insect attack. Superior quality timber decking that has a long lifetime guarantee will last between 25-30 years."

In addition to the species of wood you choose, there are also other features to be on the lookout for — slip-resistance being one of the main factors. 

"Grooved timber decking will offer the most slip resistance although there are also options to add fixed lines of grit aggregate in high footfall areas to help increase grip," says Leigh Barnes. "Decking boards should be installed with the grooves running in the opposite direction to the most frequent way you walk over it."

In addition to these considerations, you will also obviously want to take into account decking costs to ensure the products you have your eye on are within your budget. 

Which Softwood is Best For Decking?

There are so many different species of wood to choose from that it can be hard to know where to start when picking the best one for you.

"Softwoods are among the most common varieties of wood used in decking," say the experts at Ultra Decking. "If you are on a budget, softwood decking is the best wood to use. But if you are willing to spend more, there are better, longer-lasting and more durable woods that you can use instead."

"High quality pressure treated softwood is the best, most affordable type of wood for timber decking," advises Leigh Barnes. "It’s versatile and strong, and if treated correctly will last just as long as other types of wood and even plastic decking."  

Softwoods include:

• Pine: This is a really common softwood for decking and is very cost-effective. Pine decking does require treating with a preservative and good maintenance to remain in good condition.
• Cedar: Another popular wood for decking, cedar may be a little more expensive than pine but it is also more durable with better moisture resistance. If left untreated it will weather to a grey shade. 
• Redwood: A fantastic softwood for decking, Redwood is one of the most durable softwoods around and is good at resisting moisture, rot and insect attack.

Which Hardwoods Are Best For Decking?

For those with a little more in the pot to spend on their decking, hardwood is a great alternative to softwood. 

"Hardwood decking is much more durable than softwood decking," say those in the know at Ultra Decking. "However, unlike softwoods, they are much rarer and come from slow-growing trees. Because of this, they are generally more expensive than softwoods."

Some of the best hardwood varieties for decking are:

• Oak: Amongst the most popular decking woods, with good strength and moisture resistance. As hardwoods go, oak is one of the more affordable options. 
• Teak: Really durable and with a high oil content that offers good protection from rot and insect attack. On the downside, teak is more expensive than many other hardwoods. 
• Ipe: A popular decking material due to its superior strength, durability and resistance to fire, moisture, insects and scratches. On the downside, Ipe trees, native to South America, are rare and have been over-harvested meaning alternatives are now often sought. It is also expensive. 

Is Composite Decking Better Than Timber?

Many people looking for new decking often find themselves faced with the issue of wood decking vs composite. 

"When choosing your decking, you will need to consider how much time you think you can allocate in looking after and maintaining your decking," says Nick Whiley, Project Director at Trekker Global. "If you have less time for the care and maintenance of decking, then composite decking is the right option for you.”

The reason behind so many people looking at composite decking ideas these days lies primarily in its low maintenance requirements, although it is also durable.

"Composite decking requires very little maintenance apart from basic cleaning, removing of stains and regular sweeping with a thick broom," says Nick Whiley. 

More and more people these days are on the hunt for small decking ideas, keen to ensure they are making the most of every last inch of their gardens for maximum year-round enjoyment. 

However, when it comes to slotting decking ideas into smaller spaces, a more creative, considered approach is often required to ensure your landscaping scheme works as a whole. 

Our round-up of brilliant small decking ideas should get your new garden project off to the very best start, providing you with a wealth of inspiration, whether you are working with an awkward space, a sloping plot or the tiniest courtyard garden.

Finding Small Decking Ideas to Suit Your Needs 

"Any space regardless of how big or small it is, still calls for the same practical elements to reach its full potential," says Michelle Hendricks, Category Marketing Manager at Deckorators, a leading brand of composite decking. "Start from the foundations and ask yourself how the space should function to meet your expectations."

Before you can begin to design your small deck, there are a few key questions you should be asking yourself to ensure your new outdoor feature meets all your requirements. These include:

• What will the deck primarily be used for? Relaxing on, for dining, as a barbecue space, and so on.
• Is there a particular view of the garden or beyond that you want to enjoy from the deck?
• Will the deck need to take into account changes in level?
• Are you happy to put in some maintenance when it comes to your deck? Timber, for example, often requires a little more looking after than composite decking.
• What overall look are you aiming for in the garden? Would a modern style of decking be more suitable than a more rustic design, or vice versa?
• Is privacy an issue? You don't want your deck to feel overlooked so don't forget to explore ways to increase its privacy levels.

When it comes to the design of your new deck, you might like to speak to a landscape designer for ideas that will make the most of your garden space. 

Alternatively, you could try out one of the online decking design tools now available. "Many companies offer digital tools to help in the planning process. We saw this need and created our new Deck Designer" says Michelle Hendricks of Deckorators.   

If you want to take the DIY approach, you could also consider saving some pennies and find out how to lay decking yourself. 

1. Create an Intimate Dining Deck

Decking is a fantastic way to create an alfresco dining area in gardens of any size, but even small decked spaces can provide cosy spots to sit outside to enjoy a meal. 

Locating your deck in one corner of your garden – as has been done here using decking from Ultra Decking – rather than centrally, creates a nice sense of intimacy, while surrounding it with fencing covered with greenery adds to a sense of privacy.

Make sure your garden lighting ideas extend to your deck too — fairy lights add a magical feel, while the decking lights here really define the space as separate from the rest of the garden at the same time as adding a warm glow.  

2. Opt For Built-in Seating to Save Space

Built-in seating makes so much sense when it comes to small garden design ideas in general — but for compact decks it really is one feature to aim for.

"Deliberately placing seating along the perimeter of your outdoor space will allow for more foot traffic throughout the area," says Michelle Hendricks. "We advise to consider creating custom, built-in outdoor furniture, such as a bench made from composite decking, for a stylish and seamless look."

Not only does it save space, but built-in seating also looks really smart, particularly when constructed from the same material that the decking is made from. 

3. Locate it in a Corner For an Outdoor Room Feel

Positioning your deck in one corner of the garden has many advantages. Firstly, it creates a nice private space, thanks to the two ready-made boundaries that will wrap around it, whether those are made up of garden fence ideas, hedges or walls.

Then there is the fact that you have these boundaries on which to grow plants up for a lush feel, not to mention the opportunities created for hanging features such as water fountains, garden art or hanging planters. 

Finally, corner decks are ideal if you want to build benches into your deck design.

4. Create a Cosy Hideaway With Trellis

Surrounding a small deck with trellis or fencing will make it feel like a little room in your garden — the perfect spot to retreat to.

"Depending on the design, a privacy wall can act as a great way to add character and functionality to your deck, while also acting as a vertical surface for hanging planters and other décor," says Michelle Hendricks. 

Lattice is a brilliant garden screening idea and alternative to solid fencing or hedges as it allows an enticing glimpse of the space within, won't block light and is affordable too. 

5. Use Curved Decking to Make a Space Feel Bigger

Curved decking, pathways, patios and lawns are all fantastic ideas in small gardens as they distract the eye from the proportions of a space at the same time as navigating any tricky or awkward areas.

Curved decking is actually hugely popular in terms of garden trends and patio ideas right now, adding a nice organic, natural feel that it can be hard to achieve with straight lines — plus it also works well around water features and ponds. 

6. Prioritise Seating and Heating

If you only have space for one or two pieces of furniture or features on your small deck, then make sure they work hard and look great.

Ideally, you want to enough garden seating for your needs, along with space for a firepit or similar to allow you to stay out in the evenings for as long as you can without feeling the chill. 

Positioning your seating around the perimeter of your deck, with a firepit located centrally works well — the perfect spot to gather friends together. 

7. Consider Decking Tiles in Small Areas

Decking tiles are perfect for small areas as they won't usually require cutting down to size. They are also really simple to fit on a DIY basis and are relatively cost-effective too, making them a good option if you are looking for decking alternatives.

The GoodHome Lempa Brown Acacia Clippable deck tiles shown here, from B&Q are grooved on both sides and clippable, so are super easy and quick to install without using tools. They cost £33.33/m2.

8. Make Your Small Deck a Hidden Oasis

Small decks are arguably easier to turn into lush little garden retreats than their large counterparts as they naturally feel more welcoming and intimate. 

Surround your deck with a range of tall plants and incorporate privacy fence ideas, trellis and natural screening to ensure the space feels tucked away and cosseted from the rest of your garden and from the view of any neighbouring properties. 

You could opt to design your deck around flowerbeds or use raised planters — or do both, as has been done here with this deck from Ultra Decking. 

9. Mix and Match Landscaping Materials

Small gardens really benefit from a mix and match approach when it comes to the materials you use to create decks, patios and pathways. 

This garden is by no means huge, yet by combining a small timber deck with areas of paving and lawn, the space feels as though it contains separate zones and appears larger than it really is. As most decks are raised above the rest of the garden, they add height too which can really break a small space up.

10. Design a Decking Pathway 

Decking is a great way to create pathways in the garden — quick and easy to lay and available in designs that blend in well with most landscaping schemes. 

Be sure to choose a decking material that is non-slip to ensure the path doesn't become a slipping hazard in wet or icy conditions. Many composite decking ideas and products are non-slip, while opting for a timber with grooves will help too. 

11. Use Your Decking For Garden Storage

Depending on the height of your deck, it could present you with the perfect opportunity to create extra garden storage space — something often lacking in small gardens. 

"Consider utilising every square inch of the space you have. Hidden storage compartments around your deck or patio are a great way to preserve space and store your belongings," says Michelle Hendricks of Deckorators, whose products have been used here. 

"Make use of the space underneath your deck and conceal unappealing items such as utility boxes, AC units or lawn equipment using facia to conceal your decking understructure."

12. Use Awning to Shade Your Small Deck

For your deck to be a pleasant place to sit out no matter what the weather, it is important to ensure you have some great patio cover ideas up your sleeve.

One of our favourites ways to create flexible shade over a small deck is by using retractable awning. It can be folded neatly away when not in use, yet is sturdy enough to be used to keep off the rain as well as the sun, allowing to to get maximum enjoyment from your deck. It is particularly useful over small decks as you don't need to splash out on a huge awning system in order to cover the space. 

13. Extend Your Interiors With a Small Deck

Placing a small deck directly in front of your patio doors is a quick and cost-effective way to create an indoor outdoor area — simply fling open your doors and watch your interiors grow.

While expanses of paving that flow seamlessly from inside to out, featuring level thresholds and swathes of sliding glass, are undoubtedly striking, they can be costly and time-consuming to create.

A simple small deck, on the other hand, can be constructed in a day or two on a DIY basis.

If you’re building a new deck, you’ll need to know what decking costs you will need to splash out on to keep within budget. The prices can vary greatly depending on factors such as size, materials and whether you’re going to DIY it.

Wood decking ideas are typically less than composite decking, but it’s not that simple. What wood you choose will make a big difference to the cost. Softwood is the budget -friendly option, but it's unlikely to last as long as hardwood or composite. So there are choices to be made and this guide is here to help you make the right ones.

Get the gear for a new deck

How much will new decking cost?

Decking costs will vary from project to project but as a general starting point Thomas Oldham says, “Treated softwood is the most affordable option, typically starting at £1,350 for a small deck.” He adds, “While it’s easy to find and cost-effective, it does require regular maintenance.” And it's typically not as long lasting as hardwood or composite.

Oldham continues, “Hardwood, such as oak or teak, offers a more premium look and is more durable, with prices starting at £1,950 for a small deck.” He adds,”If you're looking for something that’s durable with minimal upkeep, composite decking is the way to go. While it comes with a higher price tag, it requires less maintenance and will last longer.”

Then you might need to consider options beyond the cost of the decking and labour as Oldham shares, "Weather-resistant screws, wood preservatives, and a weed membrane are all necessary to keep the structure in good shape." A cheap membrane will cost around £25 (depending on size). For a better quality membrane on a larger deck expect to pay at least double or triple this.

To prolong the lifespan of the deck and change its appearance there is the option to stain or paint. Oldham says, "Using oil-based wood preservatives like Ronseal or Barrettine will help protect the wood from rot. A 5 litre tin of Ronseal Ultimate Decking Paint (available from Amazon) costs £45-50.

You might want to include some stylish decking balustrade ideas to finish your decking off. The price can vary greatly depending on what you choose – timber, metal or glass. But expect to pay a minimum of £100, but most likely more.

All the prices for the extras are just for the materials, so you will need to factor in labour costs as well if employing a professional to do the job.

How much to hire an expert to install a deck?

Building a deck is typically a one or two day job for a basic wooden deck and a pro will charge around £150-£200 a day for labour.

If you are having a larger or more intricate deck built it will take longer, maybe three or even four days, so obviously you will need to pay your pro more.

Is wood or composite cheaper for decking?

Wood decking is typically cheaper than composite decking. At the low end wood decking will cost you around £10m/2, while prices for composite decking start at around £20-30m/2. Expect to pay two, three or even four times this for high quality hardwoods and composite.

The common choice for the cheaper decking is pine, but if you want a more durable wood such as oak, cedar or redwood then you have to pay a lot more. Prices can be as much as £80/m2, but you will get a longer lasting wood that is typically used for more designer decking.

Composite decking ideas are a common alternative to timber decking and is made from a mixture of wood fibres and recycled plastic. This makes it more durable, easier to clean and requires less maintenance.

Whatever ever you choose – wood or composite – you will need to know how to clean decking to make sure that you prolong the life of your deck and keep it looking good.

Can I build a deck myself?

If you are a competent DIYer and can build a deck yourself then you will obviously save on labour costs. But you will need to get a lot more involved in the purchasing and build process. You will need to source your decking and organise delivery times, but again shop around and you could get a really good deal.

If looking to build a small wooden deck you could think about getting a budget decking kit for around £300. These include the decking boards and joists. If looking for a larger decking kit – 4.8m x 4.8m as an example – these can be found for around £1000+. But you won't get any extras.

Another cost to consider is tools. Many DIYers will already have the necessary tools to build a deck, but if you don’t you will need to purchase. One of the best mitre saws will set you back at least £100-£150. Though you could go old school and use a hand saw which cost a lot less.

FAQs

Does a deck add value to my home? 

The answer is a definite Yes. A well-built and maintained deck can add monetary value to your property, especially if large and a key feature that sells a view to prospective buyers. It is hard to gauge how much value a deck will add, but if it helps sell your property for the price you want then it's a winner.

If you learn how to install decking yourself you can save on labour costs, which indirectly means that you are adding even more value to your home.

How long does a deck take to build? 

A simple, straightforward, average-sized deck with no extras or treatments should take two days. A smaller deck can be put together in a day. But if you have a larger deck with a more complicated design, decorative balustrades and a treatment you could easily be looking at a week.

Make sure to plan ahead so you have all the tools and materials you need before you start if doing the job yourself. If using a professional to build and paint your deck you will need the best decking paints for a top finish. Discuss with your pro how much more time this will add to the overall build.

If you’re looking to invest in new decking you need to choose something that makes the most of your outside space. Check out our small decking ideas and composite decking ideas for some inspiration. Or if you simply want to keep your old decking but give it a spruce up check out painting decking guide.

Painting decking gives it a new lease of life as well as creating a protective layer to help it last longer. Warm, dry, rain-free days are the perfect time to transform your old – or even new – decking with a few coats of paint.

To make sure that you get the best finish possible make sure that you do your prep properly. As with most paint projects, spend time doing the preparation right and the finished article will not only look good but will stay looking good for a lot longer, and the same applies when painting decking.

Follow our three-step guide to find out how to clean, prep and paint your decking with the best decking paint for the perfect finish. 

Steps for painting decking

"Before you do any DIY on your decking ideas, you need to remove all outdoor furniture items and any plant pots or ornaments. It’s also best practice to cover any nearby plants or grass with dust sheets to help protect them," says Jimmy Englezos, paint expert at Ronseal.

What you will need:

• Stiff broom
• Decking cleaner solution (try Ronseal DC Decking Cleaner 5 Litre at Amazon)
• Pressure washer or hose
• Exterior wood primer
• Decking paint
• Brush, roller or paint pad
• Paint tray for roller and pad
• Protective goggles and gloves

1. Sweep and clear up debris

Start by removing any furniture, plant pots and any other obstacles, so you have a clear area to work in. The first step in how to clean decking is to get a stiff long handled broom and brush off as much dirt and debris as possible.

Before painting over an existing finish, you need to assess its condition. If it's been painted previously you need to decide whether you need to remove it before painting it.

If the old paint is in good condition with no signs of flaking or peeling, you can paint over it directly after cleaning and sanding the surface. However, if the existing finish is failing, strip it all away and start anew.

Shop decking paint

2. Sand your decking and clean the surface

Use a 120 grit sandpaper on the end of a sanding pole and start at one end and go along the length of the decking and then start again on the next section. Alternatively you can use a manual or electric hand sander, but this does involve getting down on your knees, so think about knee pads.

You can also apply a decking cleaner and then scrub the boards with a stiff brush to work it into the boards. Using a pressure washer on the lowest setting or a hose, wash off the decking cleaner.

Make sure you wait two to three days for the boards to dry out fully before applying any paint.

3. Apply the paint

Start by using a 4-inch decking brush to do the edges. Start in the corner farthest away and create a four inch wide border of paint around the decking. If you have ridged decking get a block decking brush such as the ProDec Block Decking Brush – you will need a pole or broom handle to attach it to.

Paint the boards in the same direction as the grain or grooves to achieve the best finish. Make sure the first coat is fully dry (around five hours) before you apply a second coat.

Due to the drying times between coats, even a small decked patio is likely to take a weekend to apply both coats.

FAQs

Can I just paint over my deck?

"This depends on the previous paint's condition. If it is peeling or flaking, even in small amounts, it’s best to strip this completely for a new layer of paint," says Jimmy Englezos, paint expert at Ronseal.

"If you paint over existing peeling paint, the new paint will likely also start to peel, and you’ll have to start over," says Jimmy.

How long does a painted deck last?

"Providing the decking is looked after and maintained throughout the year, decking paint should last. To help prolong the paint's lifespan and colour quality, be sure to keep on top of any cleaning to remove any build-up of dirt, algae, or lichen from the surface," says Jimmy Englezos, paint expert at Ronseal.

"It’s recommended to review your deck each year to search for signs of wear. If it looks in good condition, then just give it a clean. If it's showing signs of flaking away or chipping, then it's probably time to start planning a recoat. This will ensure your deck lasts as long as possible as well as looking its best," says Jimmy.

Do I need to prime decking before painting? 

Yes. Wooden decking – especially new untreated decking – will need to be primed if being painted (rather than stained). Decking is typically exposed to all types of weather all year round so can take a bit of a battering. 

A coat of primer will help seal the wood against the weather and provide the platform for the best decking paint. This will help ensure a long lasting finish that is much less likely to peel and keep its appeal.  

Should I power wash or sand decking before painting? 

If you are painting newly laid decking you are unlikely to need to power wash it. However, it is a good idea to give even new decking a quick sanding before painting. This will help remove any rough edges and improve adhesion. Use a pole sander like this Spear & Jackson Tyzack 720H-05 Spear & Jackson Telescopic Pole Sander at Amazon which will be better for your back – or an electric sander to smooth out the decking.

If you are reviving older decking it will need a power wash to get rid of dirt, debris and old paint. Once you have washed any decking, leave it to dry before sanding. To get rid of any dust after sanding you can sweep or give it a quick hose down.  

Is it better to paint or stain decking? 

This will depend on a few factors including the age of decking, the condition of it, what type of wood your deck is made from and what type of look you want.

If you need to hide the flaws of an older deck, painting is probably your best choice. It will hide cracks, plus it is easier to clean than stain and will last longer. Plus you typically get more colour options which will help you decide on some smart decking colour ideas to enhance your outside space.

If you have new decking and want to show off the natural grain of the wood, stain is a better choice. You can choose how many coats of stain to help control the colour – the more stain the darker the finish. But, more coats offer better protection against the weather.

On the downside, staining doesn't hide imperfections as well and your decking will need restaining every three to five years.   

Painting decking, rather than replacing it with a brand new one, is a much cheaper option. Check out our guide on budget garden ideas for more inspiration on how to save money on a beautiful outdoor space. 

EDITOR’S NOTE: An earlier version of this article included a quote from a purported expert whose credentials we have not been able to verify. The quote has been removed. We regret this lapse in our verification process and have updated our internal protocols to reduce the risk of recurrence.

Decking balustrade ideas are a great way to enhance existing or new decking and give it that finishing touch. Both practical and stylish, there are all kinds of materials and types to choose from — including simple glass designs, traditional timber kits and metal railing.

Introducing balustrades or railings into your garden decking ideas is sure to create a united and curated scheme while ensuring it is safe to use (some decks might require them to meet Building Regulations). 

Take a look below at some great styles and designs to inspire your own decking balustrade project. 

Decking Balustrade Ideas

"When designing a decking balustrade, the consideration should be about safety first and aesthetics second," begins Karl Harrison of Trex. "Balustrades for decking are needed to make you safe and to stop you falling off them; they also form handrails to assist you when going up and down steps in your garden. 

"Adding balustrade to a decking terrace is necessary when the decking is over 600mm between one platform to another or from the decking onto a lawn. Balustrades requirements are part of Building Regulations, and you should observe them when you are having a decking terrace installed." 

1. Update and Paint Existing Decking Balustrades 

Give an existing deck design a refresh with a fresh coat of the best decking paints. 

Before painting decking and balustrades, be sure to do a bit a prep work, as you would any exterior timber, to get the best results. 

Here, different decking colour ideas have been contrasted to create dynamic and stylish space. The red-brown for the main deck inspires a natural finish, while the deep, almost gloss black for the balustrade complements the modern furniture choices. 

2. Create a Coastal Look with Timber

White-painted timber deck balustrading is a timeless look, especially when matched with a dark wood hand rail. The subtle aesthetic is best finished with delicate newel post cap and thin posts to maintain a relaxed feel. 

Note in this image, the newel posts are further supported and attached to the base of the deck, something which may be required when researching how to lay decking and balustrades concurrently. 

"The decking has a minimum strength standard issued by Building Regulations," adds Karl Harrison.

3. Retain Views with a Contemporary Glass Design

Even if you're not blessed with a view over a river like this home, don't block the view out over a garden with a solid railing or balustrade design. 

Reinforced glass is a fantastic and durable option to surround a decking area — although may cause a few bumped heads for those with young children! 

For homes such as this where the decking balustrade wraps entirely around not just the deck, but also the balcony, a barrier with no handrail will also limit the visual business when looking back at the house. 

"The style of the balustrade should work with your decking terrace, if you have a contemporary decking terrace then the balustrade should match in a similar style," adds Karl Harrison.

4. Create Privacy with a Taller Balustrade

Decking balustrades aren't just for safety, they can also be a valuable asset when creating privacy or acting as a wind-breaker. 

For raised decks or balconies with decking, adding a solid-style balustrade and railing will be an ally, while also looking fantastic in a modern colour scheme.

Take some small garden design ideas from this decked balcony — the balustrade has also been used as an edge for the outdoor sofa, providing both shelter and a back rest for users.

5. Keep Balustrades Simple for a Uniform Finish

If you're compiling ideas for a complete exterior makeover or a new design for a self build, consider the outdoor features alongside the main cladding components. 

For instance, if timber will cover the exterior of your home, a large, detailed timber railing might look too visually busy and detract from your hard work. 

This home has carefully balanced a unified look with different materials within the same grey colour scheme — from the cladding and roof to the decking, seating and garden steps ideas. The decking balustrade is simple, yet safe, with a pared-back timber structure that almost mirrors the frames of the sliding glass doors on the house. 

6. Choose a Balustrade Alternative

While timber and glass are the most common decking balustrade materials, for many homes they don't suit the style of tastes of the homeowners. 

Alternatives such as metal has previously had a mild connotation of safety rails for accessibility – not generally known as stylish – but sleek modern designs would definitely upgrade the exterior of a home. 

A solid concrete or stone wall can also be used, although obviously lack the transparency which other materials have, which could be a drawback or a positive depending on the house. 

Interestingly here, gabion cages have been used to line the decking and to provide a safety measure around the raised sections as well as acting as a great garden wall idea. Topped with wood, the lower elements also provide extra seating. 

7. Go to the Top in a Covered Deck

If your deck design is for year-round use, including a cover or a roof, a neat idea is to run every other newel post to the roof, as shown in this American-style porch. 

While this could be used to support the covering, with the right consideration given to the structure, here it becomes a stylish detail that brings a quality to the white-painted timber. 

What Height Should a Decking Balustrade Be?

"The minimum balustrade height for a set of steps is 900mmm and 1100mm when surrounding a decking platform," explains Trex's Karl Harrison. 

"Your decking installer should design your balustrade to the correct standard and present their Professional Indemnity Insurance as part of CDM regulations."

How Do Your Secure a Deck Balustrade? 

"It is important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions when installing a balustrade that you have purchased," advises Karl Harrison. "There are many types of balustrades, and each manufacturer is different. 

"If you are using a timber or custom-made balustrade, then your decking installer should fix it as per the drawings submitted. Most decks are different and therefore the method for fixing the balustrade will also change depending upon each situation. Under CDM regulations the contractor is responsible, so as a client make sure you get a specification and drawings as part of the contract of works."

If you’re looking to install new decking, wood decking vs composite is a key component in the decision making process. Which will look best in your garden?Which is budget-friendly? And, which is easier to maintain? These are just a few questions you will need to answer.

Both options will be able to embrace your decking ideas, but will offer key differences. So before you dive in and start making any major decisions, read on to see what the experts have to say.

Wood decking vs composite: What to consider 

There are a few things you need to consider before deciding whether wood or composite decking is best for your garden.

First, you should familiarise yourself with the various materials involved in the creation of both natural and synthetic decking.

It could be that you end up using one material for the deck and another for any railings – given that some products have more visual appeal than others.

You will also need to think about any future work your decking may require.

Timber decking

There are many different types of timber available, which can broadly be broken down into softwoods and hardwoods. Hardwoods such as oak, beech or birch tend to be much more suitable for long-lasting decking due to their sturdy composition.

Hardwoods are generally more expensive, though, compared to softwoods (pine, fir and spruce, for example). Keep this in mind when determining your decking costs.

Thermally modified timbers are another alternative that are durable and long-lasting. These are created by heating less durable softwoods, such as pine, at high temperatures to remove any moisture and resin, thereby permanently enhancing them.

Some of the most prominent brands of thermally modified timber on the market right now are ThermoWood, Accoya, Thor, Kebony, Keywood and PlatoWood.

“Timber is a natural material, and aesthetically has the natural grain of wood. The decking colour will fade to silver-grey over time, if they’re not stained — this is the choice of the customer. Boards can be laid in any application and are easier to install than composite boards," says Steve Rogers, Sales Executive at Premier Forest Group, who recently acquired Monmouthshire Timber Supplies.

Composite decking

Composites on the other hand are a manmade product typically made from a combination of wood and plastic, which together create a robust and durable form of decking. Brands like Trekker Global, Cladco Decking and EnviroBuild provide quality composite decking.

Nick Whiley, Project Director at Trekker Global says, "Investing in the right composite decking for your home will create a space that you can use all year round. The key reason many of our customers choose composite decking is due to its longevity." He adds, "A quality, solid composite deck will not warp or rot like timber and will stand the test of time."

Whiley continues, "Sustainability is another important factor for many homeowners and composite decking can be a really sustainable option – with some options on the market being up to 100% recyclable at end of life."

And composite is easier to look after than timber shares Whiley, "After installation, timber decking requires regular maintenance which can be harmful to the environment, depending on the coatings selected, whereas composites can feature up to 25-year warranty with very minimal after-care."

Try these for your next decking project

Pros and cons of wood decking

Pros of wood decking

• Easier and quicker to install, particularly for large areas
• Can be treated with fire retardancy
• Most manufacturers now offer sustainable varieties that are also 100% recyclable
• Often cheaper – especially softwood materials
• Usually has a more natural look and feel

Nick Whiley, project director at Trekker Global, explains: “Wood tends to offer a more natural look as it has the warmth which composite decking potentially lacks. You can also stain the wood in a variety of colours and finishes, whilst composite doesn’t offer that flexibility.

“Some woods can be inexpensive in comparison to composite decking and so initially more affordable. You do have to factor in the long-term running of the decking and work this out in comparison to looking after composite.”

Cons of wood decking

• Can rot, warp and splinter in the British weather
• Comparatively high-maintenance – requires regular staining and cleaning
• Slippery when wet
• The more durable the wood, the higher the price tag tends to be

Karl Harrison, pro landscaper and Trex Composite Decking expert, explains: “Softwood has a limited lifespan much shorter than the rest of the products but hardwoods can last the longest… They are frighteningly expensive though.”

Pros and cons of composite decking

Pros of composite decking

• A low-maintenance alternative
• Harder, comparatively more durable composition
• Will not rot, splinter, warp or host algae growth
• Anti-slip, even when wet
• Becoming a more sustainable choice

Jess Brown, Digital Marketing Manager at Ecodek, explains: “Being confident underfoot means you can use your composite decking all year round, enabling you to make the most of your investment.

“Sustainability is now important to many homeowners when it comes to choosing products for their gardens – and although timber decking seems to be the obvious sustainable choice, it may surprise many of you to hear that wood composite decking can be a more environmentally sound option when choosing decking.

“Not only does it not usually require any harmful treatments, which are then released into the atmosphere, but boards such as those manufactured by Ecodek can be recycled repeatedly and are made from up to 95 percent recycled and sustainably sourced materials.”

Cons of composite decking

• Lacking the real wood look
• Prone to scratches
• Not as easy to repair
• Permanent colours

Whiley explains: “Although they do look similar to real wood, the boards are not formed solely from wood and therefore may not have quite the same natural, rustic look which you may be looking for. This can lack authenticity for some people."

He adds, “The tones of composite decking are permanent and there is not as much flexibility to stain or change the colour as there is with wood. If you would like to be able to change the colour of your decking then timber may be the right option for you.”

What is the durability of wood and composite decking? 

The British standard for measuring how durable wood and wood-based products are (BS EN 350-1) puts them into one of five categories: one being the highest level of durability, five being the lowest level.

Any wood decking you buy should have a minimum rating of three, but hardwoods in particular must always be class one to ensure the longevity of your investment.

In a similar capacity, another British standard (BS EN ISO 14125) is used to determine the flexural properties of fibre-reinforced plastic composites, including composite decking.

While there may not yet be an equally reliable rating system by which to assess the overall quality of composite decking, improvements are being made all the time in the manufacturing of these types of products to ensure both their quality and longevity.

Which is easier to maintain: Wood or composite decking?

After you’ve learned how to install decking, the next thing will be figuring out how much maintenance you’re prepared to carry out so that it stays in tip-top shape.

Allan Jeffrey, founder of Ultra Decking, explains: “If you're looking for a minimal upkeep option, then it’s important to pick the right material for you. Composite decking requires far less upkeep and maintenance than other decking options. Unlike wood, it doesn’t need regular treating, staining or painting, and the colour doesn’t fade as quickly as wood.

“If you do end up with the inevitable spills, it’s easy to clean too. Second generation composite decking boards are produced with a thin plastic layer which wraps around the board to add increased protection from everyday use and mother nature's elements.”

While it is true that composite decking requires less maintenance than wood, the plastic used in some varieties may scratch more easily, making them harder to repair. Likewise, composite decking must be cleaned regularly to prevent moisture from building up and causing damage to your deck.

By the same token, wood decking may require more upkeep than composite, but, if well-maintained, that thermally modified wood and hardwood decking could still outlast a composite alternative by many decades. Plus, if one area develops rot or fungus, you can treat this separately.

Harrison explains: “For any kind of decking, simply buy another board and exchange for your old one that needs replacing… a saw and a screwdriver is all you need.”

Decks need to be looked after: Regardless of what they’re made from, you should learn how to clean decking properly for a consistently fresh look in your garden.

What is the cost of wood vs composite decking?

One major factor when choosing between wood decking vs composite is cost — and prices can vary considerably depending on the material and product used.

“The cost of all these materials varies tremendously. Each garden situation alone will dictate the amount of work required to create each project," Harrison explains.

“A sensible budget for a Trex® deck is from £250 to £320 plus VAT.

“The cheapest and certainly not the best solution in many cases is to use softwood. It doesn’t last as long as quality composites and needs regular treatment. A sensible cost would be from £160 to £220 plus VAT/m2.”

However, the final cost of completion will vary based on the amount of decking material used, as well as typical labour costs, which are priced on average at anywhere from £120-£200 per day.

This means that in total, you could be spending close to £1,000 for a brand new softwood deck, and as much as double that if you're planning on using hardwood or composite decking.

Do bear in mind, though, that the recent price shifts in the decking materials market are making consumers reassess their position in the wood decking vs composite debate.

Jeffrey explains: “Whilst the cost of composite decking can be more expensive than other options, when you begin to factor in the life span, the costs begin to pay for themselves over time.

“And as the cost of timber has significantly increased in just this year alone, the difference in price is now outweighed by the longevity and practicality that composite decking offers. The price gap between timber and composite is now far smaller than ever before.”

Is a wood or composite deck better? 

When making the decision between wood decking and composite, you must think carefully about what’s best for the overall look and feel of your garden. Wood decks have a certain authenticity about them, while composite structures are highly practical and versatile.

You may even find that your preferred option is a wood/composite deck combo, mixing the best qualities of both materials.

Brown explains: “For many homeowners only real timber will do. However, if longevity, safety, and sustainability are prerequisites for you when choosing decking, it is worth considering wood composite as an extremely viable and attractive alternative.”

Remember to weigh up the pros and cons of each deck type in relation to whatever future outdoor projects you have planned as well.

Whether you choose wood or composite, decking maintenance is critical to keeping it in good condition. Learn how to make decking non-slip to keep it looking good and you safe and other decking mistakes you might want to avoid.

If you are searching for decking colour ideas then you have come to just the right place. From natural neutrals to bold contemporary shades, our round-up has it all.

It isn't just the style of decking ideas or the materials you use that will affect the final look of your outdoor spaces — the shade of decking will have a massive impact too. There are lots of ways you can introduce colour into your garden and using pre-coloured decking, stains, oils and decking paint are all brilliant methods.  

Here, we take a look at the various effects that can be created through colour and how decking colours can be used to make the garden feel bigger as well as creating interest.

Choosing Decking Colour Ideas For Your Garden

When considering garden decking, colour should play a starring role. Be sure to take into account a number of other factors too, including the style of your house and the shade of any external cladding materials that feature, as well as planting schemes and the type of boundary you have.

It might be that you want to create a harmonious flow in your outdoor spaces, in which case it can be a good idea to choose decking colours that complement the other shades in your garden. For others, a strong contrast is more suitable in order to draw the eye to a particular feature or create an eye-catching contemporary look. 

Whatever your preference, take a look at our decking colour ideas to find inspiration for your garden. 

1. Warm Up Chilly Evenings With Richly Coloured Wood

Using rich, chocolatey tones of wood within your garden design will work to visually warm up a seating space and create plenty of character in both traditional and contemporary landscaping schemes. 

Here, the large outdoor rug, chunky sofas and huge pots all work together to break up the uniformity of the sizeable deck and to bring out its deep colour.

2. Use Silver Tones Against Lush Foliage

Silver decking is the perfect partner for greenery with each shade really bringing out the best in one another. Not only will a pale grey or silver deck work well with foliage, but it also looks great when combined with painted garden furniture in minty greens and turquoise, as well as large clumps of purple lavender. 

In this lush garden, Cuprinol's Garden Shades in Silver Birch has been used on the deck, with the Sage colour on the shelving. 

3. Go For Multi Tonal to Create Interest

If you want to simply let the natural tones of the wood come through, then a good decking oil is the way to go.

While protective treatments and oils should be your main guide to good decking, they can also be a great way to add colour. Not only will an oil enhance the natural beauty of wooden decks, products such as Sadolin Decking Oil, which has been used here, incorporate UV light absorbers and provide weather protection and water repellency too. They also protect against mould and algal growth. 

4. Create a Coastal Vibe With Aqua

Using a decking paint is the ideal way to put an individual stamp on your deck. Greens and blues work particularly well in the garden to create a fresh, breezy look and pair brilliantly with a range of plants. These shades also work well when set against a natural wood backdrop, such as timber fencing.

Ensure you choose the best decking paint you budget will allow, in order to achieve a long-lasting finish.

This eye-catching shade is from Valspar's range of decking paint. 

5. Use Mid Tones For a Neutral Backdrop

Decking is a great way to create a seating area that won't visually compete with the other elements in your garden — so if you have splashed out on some new garden furniture or want your carefully planned flower beds to take centre stage, your deck doesn't have to detract from them.

In order to create a neutral backdrop, opt for a soft, buttery colour and keep planks pretty uniform, as with this decking from Listone Giordano.

6. Create a Strong Contrast With a Dark Deck

Contemporary garden schemes can really benefit from a decking colour that sits in bold contrast to the other materials used elsewhere. A strong dark deck colour looks great pitched against pale, chalky limestone paving or marble. 

Alternatively, take a look at your cladding materials — a white render paired with near black decking can look very striking. 

7. Choose Harmonious Deck Colours 

Small garden ideas can benefit from colours that work in harmony with one another, uniting the spaces and blurring the boundaries visually. Pale, soft shades work particularly well in more compact gardens and in courtyards with high boundaries. 

The pink-painted rendered wall in this restful space has been paired with Sadolin's Classic Woodstain in White Birch and their Decking Stain and Protector in Golden.

8. Go For a Monochrome Effect

If contrast isn't your thing, you might like to consider going for a matching effect and create a monochrome scheme using your decking. This is an idea that can work well for owners of homes that feature expanses of timber cladding, where a using a matching decking colour can create a very striking effect.

Here, Valspar Decking Paint in Battlefield ties in with the slate cladding of the house perfectly. 

9. Conjure Up a Mediterranean Vibe With Terracotta

Can't decide between a patio or decking? There is nothing to say you can't have both. In fact, combining sections of paving with decking is a great way to visually zone spaces in both large and small gardens.

Using decking that has hints of terracotta in it is a great way of bringing in the feel of sunnier climes to your garden and can be further enhanced by the addition of plenty of greenery and a selection of rustic clay pots.

10. Brighten Up a Small Garden With Colour Bursts

The key to good small garden design is to make sure there is plenty of interest to draw the eye away from the compact proportions of the space — and colour can be the ideal way of doing this. 

Here, the decking has been given a coat of clear oil to bring out the grain and combined with fencing and seating in fresh green and white using Cuprinol's Garden Shades. 

Before choosing between patio or decking, there’s a whole host of considerations to think about before you dive in and make a choice. What’s your budget? What size space do you have? How often is it going to be used? These are just a few questions you need to be asking yourself before you start.

Both options have pros and cons, which is why it isn’t easy to decide on your patio or garden decking ideas. But don’t worry – this guide offers plenty of expert advice on both options, so it won’t be long before you can start building your dream outdoor space.

Patio or decking: Questions to ask yourself

Before making a decision or proceeding too far with your decking or patio ideas, there are a few things to consider. Simon Parry, TrexPro decking installer and director of Simon Parry Gardening & Landscaping, says: “First things first, think about the placement of your patio or decking project." He adds, "Consider where the sun hits your garden and where you would benefit most from decking or patio."

Placement of your patio or decking isn't the only consideration, as Parry shares, "Next is size – if you’re unsure what size you should go for, I’d always advise going slightly bigger rather than slightly smaller." He adds, "You’ll never regret having that extra two feet all the way around, but you might regret going smaller the first time your chair falls off the edge due to lack of room!"

Finally, he suggests you think about the purpose of your patio/decking, "What will you be using it for? Would you be using it as an outdoor dining area, adding cosy seating for quiet afternoons in the sun or even for outdoor activities like yoga?" He adds, "Thinking about this will help determine the size and style of your patio or deck.”

Alongside the more obvious considerations, ask yourself the following questions to help your decision-making.

• How much maintenance are you prepared for?
• Which materials will work best with your house style?
• What furniture or other items will be standing on the deck or patio?
• What is your budget?
• Will the area be exposed to water and/or heat?

Try these patio and decking options for your garden

Decide on a garden style

Before you choose between a patio or decking you should have a think about the garden styles you prefer and what will suit your home.

While this alone won't necessarily give you a definite answer to your dilemma, it should help you begin to form some ideas based on which materials will work best in your setting.

Those after a contemporary-style garden, for example, will be looking for a solution that will offer clean lines and minimal details. On the other hand, if it is a more rustic, traditional look you are aiming for, you should look to materials that provide plenty of warmth, texture and character.

Of course, both patio and decking can offer contemporary and traditional options, but in honing your ideas, you will at least begin to form an idea of which may best suit your requirements.

Decking pros and cons

Garden decking is a popular way to create outdoor spaces for entertaining and seating. Depending on the material you choose, a range of looks can be achieved. As with patios, decking has advantages and disadvantages.

One of the advantages of decking over patios is price, as Mark Irving, Building expert at Build & Plumb, shares, "Typically, in the UK, decking is cheaper to supply and install than a patio." He adds, "On average, a standard-sized deck can cost as little as £800 to supply and install, whilst a standard-sized patio can cost a minimum of £1,700."

But these prices are only a general guideline as Irving shares, "It’s important to note that this is just an average and it can change depending on the type of materials you are using, the size of your garden and the preparation required before installation.”

The pros of decking

• Quick to construct: Although this will depend on the complexity of your deck, many designs can be up in one or two days.
• Can be installed on a DIY basis: Providing you arm yourself with the right tools, and read up on how to lay decking, installing a deck is within the capabilities of most DIYers.
• Affordable: Although this depends on the type of decking you choose, a simple softwood decking can be picked up for as little as between £3-£6/m.
• Huge range of materials to suit a variety of garden styles: Decking comes in a whole host of different varieties, from softwoods such as pine to hardwoods like redwood. Composite decking is also an option.
• Perfect for raised seating areas: Whether your garden is sloped and you want to create a level surface, or just want a raised section of seating, decking is a great solution.

The downside to decking

One of the main downsides to wooden decking is the time and effort you need to put into it to keep it in good condition and looking good. Irving says, "Decking is far higher-maintenance and more susceptible to damage than a patio. Wood decking in particular requires regular cleaning and staining to maintain its quality and appearance."

He adds, "It’s also highly susceptible to wood rot and weathering, especially in the winter months where it’s frequently exposed to moisture."

• Maintenance requirements: For timber decking to retain its looks, it needs regular care in the form of oiling, sanding or staining. It should also be cleaned. Composite decking can offer a good alternative here.
• Can become slippery: If algae is allowed to build up on timber decking, it can become slippery. However, there are non-slip decking products available.
• Can be susceptible to rot: If not properly maintained or allowed to get very wet, both softwood and hardwood decking can be prone to rot.
• Can fade: When exposed over time to UV rays, the colour of timber can fade. However, many people welcome this natural weathering process.

Decking material options

The pros and cons listed above strongly depend on the decking material you opt for. Although softwood decking, such as pine and and fir, is the cheapest option, it will also be more prone to damage and require more maintenance.

Hardwoods such as oak, cedar and redwood are good options, but will also require upkeep so make sure you understand how to clean decking.

Most experts strongly recommend a pressure treated timber for garden decking, although heat treated woods are often seen as superior. They are less prone to movement and have superior durability.

Composite decking is another option. Made from wood fibres combined with polymer resins, composite decking offers a non- or low-slip surface and is maintenance free. On the downside it does tend to lack the warmth and natural appearance offered by real timber decking and is expensive in comparison.

Choose a decking style 

Timber decking comes in so many styles and offers so much scope in terms of colours, board widths and laying patterns that it should be possible for most people to find a style that suits them.

Those after a contemporary deck might like to consider very uniform boards in striking pale or very dark shades. For those after a more classic look, weathered boards laid in random widths can work well.

Multi-level and raised decking ideas can really create interest and make the most of small gardens, as can curved decks.

Patio pros and cons

The pros of patios

Just like decking, patios have pros and cons. It's worth noting that most patios are laid with paving or bricks, which Irving points out are durable and long-lasting, "These materials require minimal upkeep and cleaning making them the ideal low-maintenance choice for a garden."

But he adds, "Of course you will still need to clean your patio every few months, but not as frequently as wooden decking. In addition, their long-lasting nature makes them the perfect investment as they can last up to 50 years in some cases”.

• Strong: If you want to place any heavy items, such as a hot tub or sizeable table on your outdoor seating area, then a paved patio offers a sturdy surface.
• Durable: A natural stone patio, with proper foundations, can last for hundreds of years and good quality porcelains are usually sold with at least a 10-year guarantee although could be expected to last for much longer.
• Low maintenance: A yearly pressure wash should suffice when it comes to the upkeep of most natural stone paving. It may also be necessary to periodically check the grout joins between porcelain tiles.
• Huge choice of materials: Paving comes in a massive range of styles, materials and designs meaning there is literally something for everyone.
• Fireproof: If you plan on placing a firepit or similar on your patio then paving tends to be safer than a timber deck, for obvious reasons.
• Perfect for seamless flow between inside and out: Many paving products are designed to be used inside and out meaning you can create a visually unbroken flow from your internal spaces out to your patio.

The downsides of patios

Irving explains why installation can be considered a downside, “Installing a patio is not a quick process as it typically requires lengthy ground preparation. Additionally, if there are hurdles along the way it may take even longer to install, which can also increase the cost of labour”.

He also points out they are limited in use, Patios are ground level so they are only suitable for gardens on an even surface." He adds, "If your garden is sloping you may have to consider other options, like raised decking”.

• Can be tricky to lay on a DIY basis: Large paving slabs require careful cutting and can be heavy to lay alone. In addition, the right fall needs to be created to ensure good drainage.
• Require a sturdy sub-base: Just as a deck requires a sturdy frame for stability, so does a patio require a good sub-base.
• Certain materials, such as natural stone, can be costly: Materials such as granite and limestone are not cheap.

Patio materials options

There is a huge choice of materials that can be used for patios. While this is, in some respects, a good thing meaning that no matter what garden style you are aiming for, there will be something for you, it can also make choosing hard.

When it comes to garden paving ideas, there are six main patio materials that people tend to choose from:

• Concrete: The quality of concrete paving varies wildly. Some of the cheaper concrete products can look pretty unattractive and be prone to fading, however, higher quality concrete paving designed to mimic the appearance of natural stone can be very convincing.
• Reconstituted stone: Similar to concrete paving although containing small amount of real stone, you get what you pay for. It tends to lack the natural variations present in natural stone.
• Natural stone tiles: There are many different varieties of stone used for paving, including granite, sandstone, slate and limestone. Each has its own pros and cons. Although stone is durable, many varieties require sealing to retain their good looks but can be expected to last hundreds of years.
• Flagstones: Similar to stone tiles, but with a rougher, more irregular surface. They come in various thicknesses and offer a beautiful rustic appearance ideal for country gardens.
• Brick: Brick and other clay pavers add a timeless look full of warmth and charm and are perfect for smaller patios and traditional garden schemes. They can be laid in a range of patterns but are time consuming to install.
• Porcelain tiles: Porcelain tiles are a fantastic option for patios, being non-porous, frost resistant and available in a fantastic range of colours and patterns. On the downside, some very smooth tiles can be slippery wet wet so provide adequate drainage.

Choose a patio style

Patios can be designed in all kinds of shapes and sizes, from rectangular to circular. All patios should be laid on a good, sturdy and level sub-base. The depth and make up of the sub-base will depend on your patio material, but they commonly consists of MOT Type 1 hardcore, sharp sand and a layer of mortar.

You will also need to calculate the fall required in order for water to drain off your patio – this is a very gradual slope that ensures water won't collect.

FAQs

Is decking cheaper than paving?

When it comes to the cost difference between decking and patios it really does depend on the material you choose.

Decking prices start at £4-£6/m for softwood, rising to £15/m for hardwood decking. Composite decking is more expensive at between £15-£30/m.

Paving for patios costs from around £20/m2 for concrete tiles, while porcelain tiles start from around £30/m2. Natural stone tends to be one of the more expensive options, depending on the variety you go for, with prices starting from at least £35/m2.

Can I combine decking and patio slabs?

If you still can't decide between a patio and decking, why not have both? There is nothing to stop you from combining paving materials with decked areas – in fact, this approach can lead to some of the most characterful and interesting patio designs.

Parry says, "Using both materials is great for creating different areas for different purposes – one could be used for sit-down outdoor meals, whilst the other could be a more casual space for relaxing and enjoying the sunshine."

To combine a patio and decking, it's best to use materials that complement each other. Parry recommends, "A contemporary paving like porcelain or polished sandstone works well with grey decking shades for a modern looking garden, whilst a rustic sandstone or limestone works well with brown decking colours.”

If you choose decking, make sure to check out our decking costs guide so you know how much to budget and our 10 decking maintenance tips to keep it in good condition. If you go for a patio, check out our how to clean patio slabs to keep them looking good.

CONTENT SUPPLIED BY MILLBOARD

When it comes to choosing decking for a garden many homeowners opt for composite varieties that have the warmth and character of timber but don’t have the maintenance issues so often associated with real wood.

With the distinguished look of wood coupled with the credentials of composite – it’s slip-resistant, won’t warp, rot or splinter and is lightweight but strong to the core – your decking will thrive all year round, whatever the weather.

Here are four reasons to choose composite decking for your garden.

Unrivalled Wood-Grain Appearance

If you have your heart set on timber decking but the upkeep is putting you off, a composite variety offers a fantastic alternative. A good composite has the unrivalled appearance of timber, capturing the grains and knots synonymous with natural wood. And there is often a range of colours available so you can choose a shade to suit your garden.

Durable and Tough

As well as looking good you want decking to last, too. The structural core of the boards is important. Look for boards that are a blend of natural minerals bonded in a Polyurethane resin. Why? Because polyurethane is a material that is supple like rubber but is rigid and hard-wearing like a plastic so won’t warp over time like a rubber would, which means the boards won’t rot or split. A tough top layer will help the decking withstand the elements.

Easy to Maintain

One of the biggest benefits of composite decking is how little maintenance it needs. You won’t need to sand, paint, stain or oil it like you have to with timber decking. To keep the boards looking good, regularly wipe clean with warm soapy water and a stiff brush to help lift any dirt or grime. If you’re doing any building works or landscaping, be sure to protect the decking by covering it to shield it from debris and dust. Make sure you get a warranty to cover any accidental damage.

Design Flexibility

As well as using composite decking as a traditional deck its versatility means you can use it to create seating, steps and planters. Fascias and edging accessories also mean you can maintain the look around edge profiles, including rounded edges, to create a uniform and consistent look and design in your garden.

Interested in composite decking?

Then the specialists at Millboard have a range of composite decking choices for your garden. You can order free samples of the boards from the Millboard website. You can also follow them on social media www.facebook.com/MillboardFlooring/ Instagram @millboardflooring and Twitter @millboard_UK

The best decking paints can help transform your old, worn deck and make you fall in love with your outdoor space all over again. 

Decking paints are generally usable on any type of wood, and will help smooth over uneven surfaces, which means you won't have to buy any deck prepping products before painting. 

You won't have to use them too regularly either. You'll generally want to use your decking paint twice a year: once in the spring/early summer to restore your deck, and again in the early autumn to protect it from oncoming cold weather and snow. 

Ready to paint your deck back to its fantastic best? These are the best decking paints for the job. 

(MORE: How to Paint a Room)

Best Decking Paints

This is a high-quality decking paint which simultaneously offers a quick fix with long-lasting results. It can be used on any type of wood (bare, previously coated, or old) as well as any age of wood — helping to provide a cover up for both new and old decking. 

The quality of the paint is achieved through a hard-wearing polyurethane which seals both the timbers and the colours at the same time. 

Plus, the non-slip properties within the formula ensure you won't slip even if the deck has water on it — because it's weatherproof, the paint won't be affected by the rain or sun, and it has UV properties which keep the paint from fading. 

It dries out quickly within 2-4 hours, and leaves a brilliantly smooth finish that will transform your deck. It's also available in 13 vibrant colours to choose from in a satinwood finish.  

Buy Trade Paints Non-Slip Decking Paint now

Ronseal's Decking Rescue Paint is a top-drawer paint for helping to make tired and worn decks look new again, which is especially handy if your decking receives regular footfall from family members. 

It expertly fills small cracks and splinters, and smooths over surfaces that have become uneven. It is rainproof after 90 minutes and ready for use within 24 hours. It is also resistant to mildew and moisture buildup on the surface.

Moreover, it leaves a beautiful thick coat, and while it usually only requires one coat of paint to get the job done, Ronseal recommends you apply two coats: not just to achieve the full, thick coat but to maximise its scuff resistance and long-lasting effect.

Buy Ronseal Decking Rescue Paint now

For an affordable decking paint, look no further than Cuprinol Decking Paint, which is as kind to your decking as it is to your wallet. 

Although this is technically a 'decking stain', it is more like a paint as it produces an opaque finish that covers the colour and character of the wood.

It is suitable for all types of decking, comes in 12 attractive colours, and will dry within 2-6 hours depending on weather conditions (it's not recommended to apply if rain is likely). 

Not only is it weather resistant, but it's also a great decking paint for those with pets and children — it has an anti-slip additive and great friction, and the sturdy finish offers long-lasting protection. It also includes an algicide to protect against green algae and mould growth.

It's recommended to apply 2-3 coats evenly along the grain, allowing each coat to dry fully before recoating. 

Buy Cuprinol Decking Paint now

This decking paint from the appropriately named Firmtread contains fine particles that increase the friction on the surface, giving you a surer footing. It's one of the best anti-slip formulas available.

Another reason to buy this paint is that it comes in a clear version too, so you can give your decking's current colour a spruce up, if you'd rather not apply a new colour.

It dries really quickly too, within 2-4 hours. Plus, it comes with a mixing stick, which makes it much easier to apply. 

One thing to note is that while it requires two coats, these only need to be thinly applied. If applied thickly then the decking can feel gritty.

Buy Firmtread Anti-Slip Deck Coating now

Ronseal's second entry to this list is their Ultimate Protection Decking Paint, which nails the basics and is available in a range of 10 translucent colours.

It is great for renovating tired, worn decks in need of a quick colour update. It works on softwood and hardwood decking, and can also be used to fill in small cracks and lock down splinters. 

Once you've applied the recommended two coats, it should be dry within four hours. And Ronseal's deep penetrating formula is designed to increase adhesion and a long-lasting anti-slip finish. What's more, it offers all weather protection. 

If you're looking for a good all-rounder to breathe new life into your decking, this is a solid option. 

Buy Ronseal Ultimate Protection Decking Paint now

How to Buy the Best Decking Paint

These are some of the things to consider when finding the best decking paint to help you make the best buy:

Anti-slip

Most decking paints come with an anti-slip formula, which can help ensure safe footing all-year round. This is beneficial if your deck leads into other rooms, such as your conservatory, and if your deck receives regular footfall from family or pets. 

Is it weatherproof?

Most top quality decking paint will be weather resistant, but always double check to ensure your paint of choice leaves consistent results whatever the weather. Buying rainproof decking paint also means that you don't have to wait until the summer to use it.

What is the Difference Between Decking Stain and Paint?

Decking paints generally provide opaque finishes and give your deck a vibrant colour. Decking stains, meanwhile, are best suited for subtly enhancing and deepening the colour of your wood, which looks more natural, and can still help to revive old decks.

Decking oils, on the other hand, are good options when you're happy with the colour of your decking, but want to protect it against the elements.

How to Prepare a Deck for Painting

Preparing a deck for painting is as important as the application part. Firstly, it is always advised to read and follow the manufacturers' instructions - this will help to ensure the best possible finish, and advise you if your decking is unsuitable for the paint (for example, if it has been oiled in the last 12-24 months). 

Following the instructions will also help to ensure you have the right tools and materials for painting, such as a decking cleaner and primer. 

Can I paint my deck in autumn?

Most people paint their decks in the summer because there are more dry days, but if you need 48+ hours without rain to ensure your decking paint dries properly, then painting in autumn should be fine if a sunny, dry spell is likely.

Does Decking Paint Last?

As mentioned above, you'll generally want to paint deck twice to year to help save your floor from rot and fungus. The paint will also do a good job of filling cracks and providing longer-lasting protecting against mould and the sun.

Keep an eye out for paints that offer long-lasting protection, such as the Cuprinol Anti Slip Decking Stain, if protection is your priority. 

More Best Buys for Regular Painting Jobs 

• Tackle walls and ceilings with the best paint rollers
• Get a professional finish with the best paint sprayers
• Decorate your home with the best paint brushes  

Knowing how to lay decking means you can make some serious savings on labour costs. If you’re a regular DIYer, a straightforward deck is an achievable, low-cost project. You just need to make sure that you have the right tools to get the job done.

Planning your garden decking ideas is part of the process. Work out where you want your decking to go and how much material you will need to finish the deck. Double-check measurements to ensure you are ready to build your deck.

Here we guide you through the steps you need to take to build a smart-looking deck.

Tools and materials to lay decking

Creating a decked area can be quite heavy in its use of materials. For example, this 4.5 x 3.3m deck project took:

• 48 linear metres of wood
• 36 deck boards
• 800 screws 

As a rough guide, materials for a similar project will cost around £1000 upwards. Plus, think about the costs of tools if you don't already own them.

Tools you'll need to lay decking

• Tape measure
• Drill
• Jigsaw (like this Worx 550W Jigsaw from Amazon)
• Hammer
• Nail gun (optional)
• Spirit level (like this Stabila 70 Single Plumb Box Section Spirit Level Set from Amazon)
• Screwdrivers
• Battery drill/ screwdriver
• Workbench (like this WORX Pegasus WX051 Versatile Multi Function Folding Work Table & Sawhorse from Amazon)
• Gloves
• Mitre saw

Materials you'll need for laying deck

• Weed control fabric
• Wood for framework
• 50mm number-8 decking screws
• 100mm nails or nail gun ‘clips’
• Wood preserver
• 25mm x 50mm wood for stakes
• Decking
• Slabs

Best wood for decking

There’s a lot to choose from when it comes to decking, offering different costs and durability. At the budget of the market, you’ll find softwood, as Thomas Oldham, co-founder of UK Construction Blog, shares, “Treated softwood is the most affordable option, typically starting at around £1350 for a small deck.” He adds, “While it’s easy to find and cost-effective, it does require regular maintenance.”

For a longer-lasting wood, you need to consider hardwood, but it will be more expensive, as Oldham explains, “Hardwood, such as oak or teak, offers a more premium look and is more durable, with prices starting at £1,950 for a small deck.” An alternative to wood is composite decking, like this Tuda Grass Direct Composite WPC Decking from Amazon. Oldham says, “It’s durable with minimal upkeep.” He adds, “It comes with a higher price tag, but it requires less maintenance and will last longer.”

Which you choose will depend on your budget, continues Oldham, “For those on a tight budget, softwood is the most economical choice, but if you’re aiming for longevity and low maintenance, hardwood or composite are better investments in the long term.”

Steps to lay decking

1. Decide deck location

Work out where you want to build the deck and compress any loose soil with a thumper or a heavy roller.

2. Install weed membrane

Lay weed-control fabric over the whole site to stop unwanted greenery from poking through and ruining the finished appearance of your decking.

3. Lay foundations

Lay concrete slabs at the corner and centre points of the space you want to deck. The slabs provide a solid, load-spreading foundation for the deck and keep the wooden frame clear of damp ground. Put a straight piece of wood on top of the slabs and check for level. Get the level as close as you can now by adding more slabs, if necessary.

Other options for this foundation part of the job include concreting pressure-treated wooden posts in the ground at regular intervals to support the frame. This is particularly useful for creating a level deck on a sloping site. Dedicated deck blocks that are slotted to take the joists of the frame are also available.

4. Build box frame

Make up a simple box frame that will allow the decking to overhang by the thickness of a board at each edge (around 32mm, but check the thickness of the boards you are using).

5. Lay joists

Lay the joists inside the frame so that they have 400mm gaps between them.

6. Nail joists

Nail the joists in place. A nail gun (like this Erbauer 18V Li-ion EXT Cordless Nail gun from B&Q) comes in very handy for this part of the job. Most tool hire outlets stock them if you don't own or want to invest in one.

7. Level deck frame

Once the main frame is built, check it for level. If the frame needs lifting by a small amount to make it level, sections of slate or even floor tile can be inserted where necessary.

8. Steady deck frame

Make up some 600mm pointed stakes from 25mm x 50mm timber. Treat these with a couple of coats of wood preserver and hammer them in at eight inside corners around the frame. Screw through the stakes into the frame to prevent the structure moving around.

9. Fit noggins

Now measure, cut, and fit noggins staggered along the centre line of the frame. These provide extra strength.

10. Add mitre cuts

For this project, we decided to run the outside edges at 90 degrees to the main decking planks that were to run parallel with the back of the house. To get this attractive effect to work well, you’ll need to mitre the point where the decking planks meet. A manual mitre saw (like this Stanley Clamping Mitre Box and Saw from Amazon) is cheap and easy to use.

Lay the planks roughly in position before you cut them and then put a pencil line across the plank in the direction you want the mitre to be. Set the saw to 45 degrees and make sure it is pointing in the same direction as the pencil line; insert the plank and cut. Repeat for the adjoining plank.

11. Fix decking planks

11. With the inner corners mitred, you can now start to lay the decking planks. Fix the planks 5mm apart with two screws at each joist.

12. Sort outside corners

Once the decking planks are fixed, mitre the outside corners using the method described in step 10. Plane and sand a rounded edge on the outer corners.

13. Fix plank fronts

Fix a decking plank to the front, back (if seen) and sides of the frame. The face of this plank should fit flush with the edge of the outer panels.

14. Add steps (if needed)

If there’s a big drop off the deck onto the garden, you can easily add a step. Make up a framework wide enough to take two decking planks. If you want to face the vertical part of the step with decking, reduce the width of the frame by the thickness of the deck plank you are using.

15. Level and fix frame

Level and fix the frame all round the deck.

16. Install stakes

Make up stakes (see step 8) and hammer in place. Screw through to the frame to secure the framework.

17. Finish up

Mitre and lay the decking planks for the steps and fix in place with two screws at every joist. Finally, screw decking panels to the front face of the step to create a neat finish.

With a new deck in place, you need to think about how to finish it and look after it. Check out our best decking paints and painting decking guides to give a deck the finish it deserves. To keep it looking good, check out our decking maintenance tips.

Knowing how to clean decking is essential if you want it to stay looking good and last longer. When the warmer evenings are just around the corner you want to get your decking back up to scratch. No-one wants to sit out on a deck that is slimy, grimy and slippery when sipping a long cool drink or enjoying outdoor dining.

But the joy of freshly reinvigorated decking is that it’s not just easy on the eye, it's easy on your pocket. Keeping a deck clean means that all the hard work you put into your garden decking ideas will ensure that they stay looking good for longer. Here the pros tell you what you need to know.

Before you start to clean your decking

Take everything off your decking so it’s completely clear and ready for you to clean.

Grab a broom and give your decking a good sweep to dislodge any dirt – don't worry too much about any particularly problematic dirt, as that can be tackled with a deep clean of your decking.

The tools you'll need to clean decking

You need to gather a few tools to get the job done. These include:

• Wire brush (like this Lavaxon Wire Brush from Amazon)
• Decking cleaner
• Pressure washer or hose (like this Kärcher K 2 from Amazon)
• Nylon kitchen scourer
• A regular sponge
• A bucket of warm water
• Domestic soap

How to give timber decking a light clean

1. First clean

Make sure that you have swept your decking. Then give your timber decking a gentle clean, first using slightly soapy water and a sponge to remove dirt and cobwebs.

2. Remove stubborn dirt

For more stubborn dirt, try a very light abrasive such as a nylon kitchen scourer, used along the grain. "Do not rub against the grain," says Jacksons Fencing's Leigh Barnes, "as it is likely to leave marks."

3. Use a pressure washer

You can use a pressure washer, but care must be taken as not to damage the surface of the timber. Use a very light/distant cold water pressure washer for the job. Remember to find the best pressure washer for the job at hand — rotary pencil jet nozzles aren't suitable for timber surfaces.

How to deep clean timber decking

“The first job is to ensure decking is properly clean before - ideally - applying decking oil to ensure it will be water-repellent and UV-protected.” says Richard Bradley, UK Head of Marketing at V33.

“Seek out a deck cleaning fluid that is specifically formulated for this job so that you can revive the decking’s wood without altering it.” He adds, “What you are looking for is a fluid that effectively cleans, removes mould, mildew and black spotting, and eliminates greying. Ideally, a concentrated formula will provide high coverage that can easily tackle heavily soiled areas, even stubborn stains."

V33 Tough Deck Clean & Revive (available from B&Q) can be applied on either bare or oiled decking. Here Bradley runs through how to use the deck cleaner. “Firstly, brush the wood to remove excess dirt. Dilute the cleaner in a proportion of one unit of cleaner to two units of warm water.”

He adds, “This solution can then be applied in two ways. If using a pressure washer, spray the decking and then leave it for ten minutes before rinsing with clean water.” If using a brush Bradley says, “Pour the solution onto the surface using a watering can, leave for ten minutes, rinse, and then scrub using a hard-bristle or patio brush, followed by more rinsing.”

How to clean composite decking

The material finish of composite decking means that it does not require painting, staining or oiling. This means that cleaning process is different to a traditional timber decking.

The tools you'll need to clean composite decking

Tool list

• A soft bristled brush (anything other may be abrasive to the surface of the deck)
• A hose pipe (like this Expandable Garden Hose from Amazon)
• A regular sponge
• A bucket of warm water
• Domestic soap
• Pressure washer
• Composite decking cleaner 

How to give composite decking a quick clean

1. Brush the deck with warm water

Mix a bucket of warm water with household soap (washing-up liquid will do the trick). Apply this directly onto the deck and clean thoroughly with a soft bristled brush.

"Brush the surface of the deck along the length of the grain of the board to ensure dirt and debris is being removed from the expansion gaps between the boards," suggest the experts at Neotimber.

2. Clean trim and edges

The edges of your deck, especially where trims are installed, can often collect dirt and debris, so take extra care with these areas by applying warm soapy water to the surface of the deck and clean with a sponge.

How to deep clean composite decking

1. Treat with deck cleaner

Once the area has been cleared of all furniture and excess debris, you are ready to treat your deck a treatment. Firstly, apply a thick layer of composite decking cleaner such as Owatrol Compo-Clean to the surface of your composite deck.

Large areas should be cleaned in smaller sections. Follow the manufacturer's instruction for the composite decking cleaner you choose.

2. Jet wash boards

Using a jet wash (check the best Karcher pressure washers) on the fan attachment, rinse your deck. Apply the nozzle of the jet wash no closer than 250mm from the surface of the deck boards — any closer and you risk damaging the surface of the decking.

Clean along the length of the deck boards and pay extra attention to debris that is lodged between the board’s expansion gaps.

3. Tackle hard to reach spots

Pay attention to hard to reach spots and tackle these areas with some additional care. Either remove the surface dirt with a sponge or devote a little more attention to these areas with your jet wash.

Cleaning decking is all part of the decking maintenance process. how long decking lasts depends on how it is looked after and what material is made from. If you're looking to build or repair a wooden deck make sure to check out our best wood for decking guide.

Not so long ago, TV makeover shows were all about enthusiastic gardening ‘experts’ showing us how our outdoor spaces could be transformed in a matter of hours with easy-to-lay, uniform decking. However, in recent years there has been a definite move away from the trend, with studies showing grass once more growing in popularity.

The Comeback of the Lawn

There is an awful lot to be said for the lawn. While its natural and lush appearance holds obvious appeal, it is also a great way to encourage more wildlife in to your garden, increase oxygen, reduce the likelihood of flooding and, according to some, increase your general feelings of wellbeing. It is also a great option if you have children — running around on soft grass has to be more pleasurable than on hard decking.

A couple of years ago, a survey carried out by lawn company GreenThumb, showed that a sixth of people who had installed decking ended up ripping it out, saying that they missed the colour and wildlife that a lawn brought their gardens. Some people also felt it took up too much space. However, the Timber Decking Association disagreed (naturally), stating that any suggestion that decking was in decline was misinformed.

Despite this battle of vested interests, whatever your personal preference, it is true to say that timber decking has come a long way, with a greater choice of products, designs and finishes now available. There is also more of a sense of how it can be laid to make the most of a garden and blend in with the existing nature that surrounds it.

Better Decks

Of course, even if you are a lawn lover, there is no reason why you cannot have both lawn and decking in your garden. This is in fact the ideal way to define different areas of the outdoor space you have available. It provides a great surface for an outdoor seating area, around a swimming pool or maybe a hot tub, plus it is quick and easy to install and fairly cost effective to boot.

It is also an excellent solution for those dealing with sloping sites — turning fairly unusable garden space into a stable, level and useful area. Timber decking can work well when used to create pathways and steps — blending nicely with other natural materials in the garden.

Isn’t Decking Slippery and Rot-Prone Though?

Decking can be slippery, and prone to rot, too. What you need to bear in mind is that choosing the right timber for your decking is essential in ensuring that you are able to enjoy it for many years to come.

In terms of preventing it from rotting, warping or cracking (all complaints linked to decking) look for a timber that has the DeckMark symbol from the Timber Decking Association — this is a good indicator of the use of high-quality materials with good guarantees.

Softwoods such as pine and spruce will be the cheaper option, but must be properly treated with a wood preservative — as should any cuts in the wood. Cedar is an ideal softwood choice, being naturally weather-resistant.

It is the hardwoods though that have seen a growth in their popularity recently, with species such as oak and teak giving a stylish and contemporary feel, while also offering plenty of durability and stability — essential qualities for timber decking to remain looking good.

Other good choices include birch, elm, maple and cherry. Both treated softwoods and hardwoods can be expected to last for around 25 years if well maintained.

So, what about it becoming slippery? Yes, timber decking can in the wetter months become a little bit like an ice rink. There are various ways around this:

• Some swear by pressure washing a couple of times a year to remove algae build-up, although others believe this will lead to the timber rotting at a faster rate. There are gentler deck cleaning solutions available which are worth a look.
• Others suggest securing chicken wire to the surface — effective, but not necessarily attractive.
• There are also products on the market specifically tailored to deal with the problem, such as GripDeck. These are anti-slip aluminium inserts that are easy to fit and blend in well.

Deck Facts

• Expect to pay £30-70/m² for decking boards.
• For installation, a two-man decking company will ask around £500 for a typical patio.
• As long as your decking is no more than 30cm above the ground and covers no more than half the garden area, it won’t require planning permission. If your deck requires planning permission it will also require Building Regulations approval.

Designing your Landscaping Scheme

Although there are problems associated with timber decking, most are easily avoided. Ensure that your decking sits well within your scheme by choosing the right product for the right area. Grooved and ribbed finishes seem to blend in nicely with more traditional garden schemes, while smooth finishes add to the crisp nature of a contemporary outdoor space.

Remember, there is no reason why you have to stick to straight lines. Boards can be fitted diagonally or even in herringbone patterns to create a tailored look. Look at the surrounding materials, too — timber decking fitted near an expanse of timber fencing can all look a bit much, but combined with glass balustrades or lush hedges, can really add something.

When planning your deck, think about the effect you want it to have on the overall appearance of your home. Deck boards placed at right angles to your home tend to draw the eye out towards the garden, while those that run parallel will add a sense of width to the house.

How to Install Decking

• In order to prevent your new deck being plagued by weeds, lay a deck fabric over the earth before the deck is fitted
• Ensure that the framework for the deck is laid on to concrete foundations rather than directly on to the soil for added stability
• For water run-off, the deck should gently slope away from the house — a 10mm drop for every metre of deck is ideal.

If you are installing decking in a shady spot, bear in mind that it will not be able to dry out in the sun and it will spend much of the time damp and so more prone to algae, dirt and moss build-up. Choose a non-slip product and clean the deck with a deck cleaning solution regularly to keep it in good, usable condition, and re-treat the deck afterwards. You should also check your decking regularly for any loose boards and splintered wood, and repair where necessary.

A final note on installation: always use purpose-made stainless steel or galvanised screws so that your decking is not ruined by rust stains.

Low-Maintenance Alternatives to Timber Decking

If you are concerned about the maintenance involved with timber decking, you could opt for an alternative material. In the main, these are either composites or PVCu.

• PVCu products are cheaper than timber, yet lack the natural appearance
• Composite decking is made from wood fibres combined with polymer resins and offers a non- or low-slip surface. It’s also maintenance free — no sanding or sealing required.

If it is a wholly earthy and natural appearance you are hoping to achieve, then timber wins hands down, but in contemporary schemes a composite often works well.