Garden decking, a timeless addition to homes and gardens, continues to be a popular choice. Its versatility allows homeowners and garden enthusiasts to add an extra feature to their garden, create a unique definition, and incorporate functional features. With a decked area, you can bring your ideas and designs to life, enhancing your garden in a way that reflects your style.
Adding decking to your outdoor space requires careful planning. It’s not as simple as picking a space and getting started. By considering a few key factors, you can ensure that your deck enhances your outdoor space and meets your specific needs and preferences.
Size
The size of your garden or outdoor space where you’re planning to add the decking is not just a number. It’s a crucial factor that directly impacts the size and height of the deck and, ultimately, the usability and aesthetics of the area. You want the decking to enhance the space, not dominate it. So, measure carefully and consider different options to understand how it will affect the usability of the yard and what you might lose when you add it.
The Purpose of Your Deck
What your deck will be used for will dictate the type and style of the deck you should be going for. You might want to create a space outside your home to help you navigate different elevations by adding a deck with steps down to the garden from home instead of stepping out directly onto the steps. Or you might want to add a seating area in the far corner with a pergola for rest and relaxation. Consider why you’re adding the deck, how it will be used, and its purpose before making any decision or moving forward to avoid making a mistake.
The Material
These days, decking can be made from many different materials. The type of material is entirely down to you, your preferences, and your local environment. Traditional wood decking is highly effective and durable and is an idea for many homes and gardens. Composite decking is extremely low-maintenance and durable and is available in different colors and styles to complement more modern home designs and aesthetics.
Think carefully about your choice of materials and the upkeep and care each one requires so you know what it fixed post-installation, and you won’t be facing any nasty surprises you were expecting, such as regular refinishing or varnishing to maintain functionality and avoid damage.
Style and Design
Decking can be constructed in various styles and designs, which would also comply with the deck’s purpose and location. Do you want a deck that stands out from everything in your garden, or do you want it to blend in? Do you want a rectangular or square decking shape or more circular decks or sharp angles? Or maybe you want a multilevel design with steps or even built-in storage? Think about the options available to you and what you need from your decking to choose the right style.
Location
The location will be determined by the size of your garden and the function you want from it. Take into account how you use the garden, other features you have, such as an entry point, and water features, such as a pool, flower beds, patios, etc. Where would the decking fit better, and how will it impact how you navigate the space? It might be there is a single obvious space that the deck will go; in other items, you can be flexible with its size and location to help you design a deck that allows you to accommodate specific features such as being able to relax in the sun in the most exposed part of the yard, providing a seating area for sunbathing around a pool or creating a dining or relaxing space away from home.
Budget
Lastly, your budget is not just a number. It’s a key factor that will play a huge part in determining the deck’s size, materials, and design. It sets realistic expectations and prevents overspending. Look at what you can realistically afford to spend. What materials you can choose will depend on your budget. Whether or not you DIY your deck will impact what you can afford, the scope of the work, and the features you can add. Aspects such as built-in seating, lighting, storage, etc, will come at a higher cost, meaning if these are non-negotiables, you might need to compromise on the size or location.
Choosing decking for your home can instantly elevate your enjoyment of your external areas and even allow you to add value to your home. However, you need to think carefully about the materials you want your deck made from, the location style, and the features you want to make sure you are happy with your decision and that your deck does what you need it to and has the impact you want.
