4 Steps to Getting the Ideal Wooden Decking

Setting up wooden decking in your garden can transform it. It can give it a stylish new look and revolutionise how you use your outdoor area.

But you need to make sure you do it right. The best decking can look fabulous but the worst can look cheap and degrade quickly.

Follow these 4 steps to get the ideal wooden decking for your garden.

1. Pick the right wood

If you’re planning on building wooden decking, it’s vital that you get the right wood. Wood colour and quality vary so much that it’s something that you need to consider carefully.

Think about which colour would look best on your decking. Lighter woods can blend seamlessly and subtly into your garden but darker woods create an eye-catching contrast. Go for whatever suits you – the choice is yours.

Softwoods tend to be cheaper than hardwoods. Hardwoods are often more durable and stable than softwoods, but both can last for 25 years plus if you look after them properly. If you’re set on a wood type but can’t find the colour you want, why not see if there’s a wood paint, stain or varnish you can use?

2. Be creative with your design

Once you’ve chosen your wood, think about your decking design. Most people make their wooden decking out of straight, flat boards. But if you think outside the box, there are plenty of other options.

Consider texture. Are smooth, sleek boards your style or would you prefer a grooved or ribbed finish? And do you want flat boards or do you fancy mixing it up with diagonal boards or a herringbone pattern?

Whatever your property or garden style, you can find wooden decking to suit it.

3. Install it correctly

It’s vital to install your decking correctly. Even the most beautiful wooden decking can look crumby if it isn’t fitted correctly.

Make sure you lay fabric over the soil where your decking will be to prevent weed growth. You also need solid foundations for your decking – soil just isn’t firm enough. Plus, if you’re building your decking directly next to your home, make sure it slopes gently away to stop water running into your home.

4. Look after it

Finally, make sure you look after your wooden decking. Wouldn’t it be a shame if you got the perfect decking but it deteriorated because you didn’t look after it?

Some woods come treated while others require treating before you use them. Make sure you treat your wood as and when required to keep it in top condition. You can find out when to do this by consulting the manufacturer and following the instructions on the preservative you use.

You should also make sure you keep your decking clean. Not only will this keep it looking good, it’ll also stop it getting grubby and slippery.

So finding the ideal wooden decking doesn’t have to be an ordeal. Following these 4 steps should help you get the perfect outdoor area for you and your garden.

If you need help sourcing and installing decking, click ‘Start my project’ to use our service. We’ll connect you with up to 4 decking professionals who’ll be able to give you a free, no-obligation quote.