Garden Decking

Timber decking offers so many opportunities in terms of its size, shape, format and location that practically anything is possible. You can afford to let your creativity run, but you will need to incorporate structural and safety issues into your design. Practically, it is often easier to picture the finish deck than work out how to make it and that's where we can really help out.

When considering possible designs, you should consider how and when you intend to use the deck. What role will your decking play in your garden and lifestyle?

Start by taking note of which areas catch the sun and at what times. Consider privacy, if this is a concern in your garden. Ideally, try to put yourself in the place of your planned decking at the times you intend to use it. What can you see? Who can see you? Where's the sun? Is it windy or noisy? How did you get here? Also imagine looking out to the deck from your household vistas.

Height is one of the most frequently overlooked issues. Don't forget that your timber decking will be elevated, possibly by as much as a foot or more. This may be an advantage and you may want to deliberately elevate the deck to tackle change in level in your garden. However, you should also be sensitive, as this will affect the privacy of your neighbours.

To reduce the potential for disputes and legal wrangling you should consult adjoining neighbours before starting work and be honest about your plans. A few simple modifications may be all that is required to preserve good neighbourly relations! In the worse case scenario, decking can be installed at ground level.