How Much is Decking?
Decking is one of the most popular outdoors improvement among homeowners all over the UK. Whether you’re about to create a new garden deck, replace a tired patio or lay down an eye-catching area for entertaining in the garden, one question is always going to crop up: How much is decking?
Decking prices in the UK vary hugely depending on a few key factors, all of which are discussed below in this helpful guide. In this guide, we’re going to shed some light on everything you need to know about the cost of decking in the UK, including the cost of timber vs composite decking, installation fees, maintenance and more.
So let’s get right into answering the question How much is decking?
Table of Contents
- Why Install Decking?
- Types of Decking Materials
- Average Costs of Decking: Uk
- Timber Decking Cost Breakdown
- How much does composite decking cost?
- Labour and Installation Costs
- Reasons Why Deck Cost Varies
- When you should Consider DIY vs Professional Decking Installation
- Maintenance and Maintenance Costs Over Time
- Saving Money on Decking
- FAQs
- monir
- Conclusion
Why Install Decking?
A deck is a great way to add beauty and functional space to the garden or outdoor area of your home. A good deck design provides a natural transition point between your indoor and outdoor living spaces, expands usable area and can even increase your property’s value.
But before diving into decking project, it’s important to ask: How much is decking really going to cost me?
Types of Decking Materials
The first major decision that impacts the cost of decking is the type of material you choose. Each option comes with its pros, cons, and varying price points. Here’s a quick rundown:
- Softwood Timber Decking
- Normally made with pine or spruce.
- The most affordable option.
- Needs to be treated regularly to prevent rot and weathering.
- Hardwood Decking
- Crafted from hardy hardwoods such as teak, oak, or iroko.
- Provides a robust finish and durability.
- More costly and more difficult to install.
- Composite Decking
- A blend of wood fibres and post-consumer plastics.
- Not a lot of maintenance and resistant to rot.
- Available in an array of colours and finishes.
- PVC or Plastic Decking
- Fully synthetic material.
- Waterproof and strong It does not break.
- They are often a little more expensive to buy but less to maintain over the long term.
When you ask, how much is decking, your answer will depend significantly on which of these materials you prefer.
Average Decking Costs in the UK
So, how much is decking on average in the UK? Here’s a general price guide:
| Type of Decking | Material Cost per m² | Installed Cost per m² |
| Softwood Timber | £15 – £25 | £70 – £100 |
| Hardwood Timber | £50 – £100 | £120 – £200 |
| Composite Decking | £60 – £120 | £130 – £200 |
| PVC/Plastic Decking | £70 – £130 | £150 – £220 |
Please note: Prices vary depending on brand, quality, and location. For a small 10m² decking area, the total cost can range from £700 to £2,000 or more.
Timber Decking Cost Breakdown
If you’re leaning toward timber, you might wonder more specifically: How much is decking with timber? Here’s what to expect:
- Softwood Timber
- Decking boards: £15–£25 per m²
- Joists and supports: £10–15 per m²
- Preservatives and treatment: £50–£100 (one-off or each year)
- Installation (optional): £40–£70/m²
- Total cost for 20m2: £1,400–£2,200
- Hardwood Timber
- Decking boards: £50–£100 per m²
- Supports and fixings: £20–30 per m²
- Staining & maintenance: Higher than for softwood
Installation: £60–£100 per m²
Total cost for 20m²: Around £2,500–£4,000
Composite Decking Cost Breakdown
Composite decking is the rising star in UK gardens. But again, how much is decking if you choose composite?
- Decking boards: £60–£120 per m²
- Substructure and fixings: £20–£40 per m²
- Labour: £60–£90 per m²
Total cost for 20m²: Around £2,800–£4,500
Although more expensive, composite decking requires very little maintenance, making it a cost-effective option over time.
Labour and Installation Costs
Even if your decking materials can be purchased cheaply, labour costs are often the next factor to think about when you ask, how much is decking installation?
Average Labour Rates:
- Softwood installation costs: £40–£70 per m²
- Composite installatio: £60–90 per m²
- Wood flooring installation costs: £70–£100per m²
- Additional costs may include:
- Site clearance: £100–£300
- Levelling or groundwork: £200–£1,000
- Waste removal: £50–£150
So, What Affects Decking Prices?
To get a clearer idea of how much decking is present in your situation, here are some things to consider:
- Decking Material
- Size of the Area
- Complexity of Design (e.g., multi-tiered, integrated lighting)
- Access to Site
- Geographic region (labour costs are localised)
- Ground Preparation Needs
- Hards (parements, babies, furniture)
Decking Installation: Do It Yourself Or Hire A Pro?
If you’re handy, you may be thinking of doing it yourself with some decking. So if you forego professional installation, how much is decking?
DIY Decking:
Only materials: Save yourself from paying the labour.
Tools required: Saw, drill, level, measuring tape.
Skill level: Intermediate to advanced
DIY may save money in the short term, but the errors can be expensive. Bad installation can relate to longevity, safety and require replacement.
Professional installation provides peace of mind, a guaranteed finish and, often, warranties.
Maintenance and Long-Term Costs
If you’re wondering how much is decking in the long run, factor in upkeep:
Softwood:
- Annual staining/sealing: £50–£150
- Lifespan: 10–15 years with care
Hardwood:
- Oil every 1–2 years: £60–£120
- Lifespan: 20–30 years
Composite/PVC:
- Occasional cleaning: £0–£30
- Lifespan: 25–50 years
Saving Money on Decking
If you want to rein in the cost of decking, try these:
- Opt for softwood (or entry-level composite)
- Keep the design simple
- Compare multiple quotes
- Buy materials in bulk
- Install off-season — when rates are lower
- If You Can Do It Yourself, Do So
FAQs
What Is The Cost Of Decking Per M² In The UK?
Patio/Decking from £70–£220 per m² depending on material and labour. Softwood decking is cheaper; composite and hardwood options ask for more.
Is composite decking more expensive than it’s worth?
Yes. While its initial cost is higher than that of wood, composite decking is low-maintenance, durable and never needs annual treatments — so it’s a smart investment over the years.
Do I have to use a contractor to build a deck?
You could, most especially for simple timber designs. That said, installation mistakes can be expensive, so if you’re not sure a do-it-yourself approach is for you, it’s advisable to call a pro for a safe, lasting finish.
Conclusion
So, how much is decking? As we’ve seen, your answer will depend on a number of factors — from what materials you choose to the labour you need and how big your project is. A small, softwood deck may be as little as £700–£1,000, whereas a style-up composite deck with lighting and railings can shoot well above £5,000.
Learning about how the costs are broken down will allow you to make an informed choice, make a solid plan for your needs, and less unsubstantial expenses. Whether you’re transferring a small, coupled backyard or planning a luxurious deck for your garden, the question of “how much is decking? is the ideal first step towards transforming your outdoor space.
Looking for personalized advice or a no-obligation quote? Contact quality decking installers in your area and make your garden dreams come true.
