Decking in Beckenham
Step out, not down.
A level, warm surface for a sloping garden or a step out from the kitchen, built on a frame that keeps the boards dry and true.
Why decking
Level ground, whatever is underneath.
Decking suits gardens where paving would mean digging out or building up a lot of ground. The frame does the levelling, and the boards sit on top.
A frame built to last
Treated joists on solid footings, spaced to suit the boards, with a weed membrane beneath and room for air to move.
Drains and breathes
Gaps between boards and space under the frame let water drain and the timber dry out, which is what keeps a deck sound.
Finished at the edges
Fascia boards, steps and trims hide the frame so the deck sits neatly against the lawn, beds and house.
Materials
Choose your boards.
The board decides how the deck looks, how it ages and how much looking after it needs.
Composite
Wood fibre and plastic. Holds its colour, will not splinter, and needs no staining.
- Upkeep
- Very low
- Best for
- Families and busy gardens
Hardwood
Dense tropical or European timber. Rich colour, naturally durable, and weathers to silver grey if left.
- Upkeep
- Moderate
- Best for
- Natural, long-lasting finish
Softwood
Pressure-treated pine. The traditional choice, warm underfoot and easy to cut to shape.
- Upkeep
- Treat every year or two
- Best for
- Lower-cost projects
What’s included
Everything, start to finish. One fixed price.
The same way of working on every job, from the first conversation to the handover.
- A design visit at homeWe look at the space with you, talk about how you’ll use it and sketch out the options.
- Samples in your own lightSee the materials against your house before you choose.
- A plan drawn to scaleLayout, levels and materials shown in place, with any lighting and planting your project needs.
- One fixed quoteClear and itemised, with no surprises halfway through.
- One number to callA single point of contact from the first visit to the handover.
- Handover and care guideA walk-through when we’re done, and simple tips to keep it looking new.
- Our written guaranteeUp to 10 years on our workmanship, in writing.
Do I need planning permission for decking?
Not usually, provided the deck is no more than 30cm above the ground and, together with other extensions and outbuildings, covers no more than half the garden. Higher decks and raised platforms need planning permission, and listed buildings need consent.
Is decking slippery?
Any surface can be slippery when wet and shaded. Grooved or anti-slip boards help, and so does placing the deck where it gets sun and air, and keeping it clean of algae.
Composite or timber?
Composite needs the least looking after and keeps its colour. Hardwood looks and feels like real timber and lasts well. Softwood is the most economical but needs treating regularly.
How do I look after a deck?
Sweep off leaves, wash it down once or twice a year, and keep the gaps between boards clear. Timber decks also need an oil or treatment every year or two.
Can a deck go over an old patio?
Sometimes, if the patio is sound and drains. The frame needs support and ventilation underneath, and the finished height must clear door thresholds and damp-proof courses.
Often paired with decking
All services →Start your deck
Level ground, warm underfoot.
Book a free design visit. We’ll look at the levels and the light and talk through composite and timber.
- Written guarantee of up to 10 years on our workmanship
- Fully insured
- A family team. We never subcontract
Thank you, there.
Your enquiry is with our design team. We’ll be in touch within one working day to book your free visit.