Garden Decking – design, materials, cost

Decking looks great in any garden, whatever the shape or size. So whether you want to create an outdoor dining space, a pool area or somewhere to relax, find out how decking can transform your garden.

If you want to spruce up your garden, why not consider putting in some decking? “You can use decking for so many things; as a dining or seating area, a space for kids to play or as a garden path,” says David Robinson, from Staffordshire landscaping company, Up the Garden Path.

Decking materials

You can use garden decking as
a dining, seating or sunbathing area

Although you can choose from a range of decking materials, wood is by far the most popular option. Timber decking is popular because it’s a natural, sustainable resource which looks great in the garden. David says: “I almost always use timber for decking as it’s a cheaper solution and is normally treated so it won’t deteriorate.” Wooden products are susceptible to rot, warping and cracking, especially if exposed to the elements, so you should choose your timber wisely. The Timber Decking Association (TDA) recommends that you use timber naturally resistant to decay or woods treated in accordance with standards BS EN 335.

Composite decking is a less popular and more costly material, made up of a mixture of wood shavings and plastic materials blasted together at a high temperature. This makes it extremely strong. UPVC is a similar decking option; neither of these materials will rot and they come in a range of designs and finishes, some give a realistic wood grain appearance.

Garden decking design

If you’re thinking of installing garden decking, there are a few things to consider first. Decide what you want to use your decking for. Do you want a seating or dining area? A place for the kids to play? A space for a pond or pool area? Answering these kinds of questions will help you determine the size and shape of your decking area; if you want a hot tub then decking can be arranged around it in a circular design, or if you are planning a dining area you may need a large block of decking to accommodate chairs, tables and sun loungers. “Decking can also be used as a path or steps, particularly in a steeply sloped garden,” says garden designer David.

Martin Gomm, from Wycliffe Landscapes Ltd in Dorset says that: “When designing a garden you need to know where larger features like decking or sheds are going to be placed first, everything else has to be organised around this.” It is also important to figure out where the sun falls in your garden so that you avoid placing decking in an area that’s too sunny or shady. “People tend to stick their decking close to the house,” points out David. This is convenient for dining or seating and allows you to create a seamless link between the inside and outside of the home, especially if you have sliding or French doors.

Decking features

Decking areas can end up looking generic, so think of ways to personalise yours: “You can buy different styles of ribbed or grooved decking or set planks at different angles to create unique decking areas,” suggests David. Cutting out areas in the middle of decking spaces to accommodate plants, shrubs or even trees also works well. “Plants soften hard landscaping areas like decking,” explains Martin.

On a practical note, be careful not to disturb drainage, guttering or manholes. The TDA says that effective decking should be built with an incorporated slope to aid drainage; grooved decking also helps with water runoff. Decking boards should be spaced 5-8mm apart and any metal fixings should be corrosion resistant, recommends the TDA.

Wood is the most common decking material

Decking maintenance

Even if your wooden decking comes pre-treated, you may need to stain or paint it every year. David explains: “Timber is normally guaranteed for 25 years and needs cleaning once or twice a year with mild detergent, but it doesn’t get slippy or slimy.” Vinyl or composite decking normally requires treating with chemicals every so often.

Do you need planning permission for garden decking?

Before installing decking you should check with your local building authority if you live in a listed building, near a boundary or in a conservation area. Otherwise planning is permitted as long as:

• The decking is no more than 30cm above the ground
• It is not situated within 20m of a highway
• The decking does not take up more than 50% of your garden (including outbuildings and extensions)
• It does not affect the privacy or value of the neighbouring properties

Cost of garden decking

Decking can be installed yourself, but for best results hire a professional. Heidi Cornish, from Island Landscapes Ltd in Essex says: “I would recommend hiring someone who is registered with the British Association of Landscaping Industries (BALI) because you know they will be properly qualified, trained and insured.”

The cost of garden decking varies greatly depending on what kind or wood or other material you use and the size of the area you wish to install decking in. You should get at least three quotes for the job.

AB