Garden Decking Cost

Looking for some budget garden decking ideas?

This guide will compare the different costs for softwood, hardwood, Trex, uPVC, and composite decking in the UK. By breaking the numbers down to highlight the supply-only and the associated labour costs to lay decking, you'll be able to decide which decking base is best for your garden.

For the average project, composite decking prices start from around £1,500, with different decking bases ranging from £1,000 for softwood decking, to over £2,500 for premium IPE decking.

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Keep reading for a closer look at decking installation costs in 2025.

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What Are Decking Prices in the UK?

The typical cost of garden decking is around £1,200 to £1,800 for up to two days of work. This price will vary depending on the materials you choose, the size of the decking, your location, and the duration of the job.

The main material needed is the garden decking itself, which is available in different variations. Understanding the costs of various garden decking materials is crucial for budgeting your project effectively.

The most popular materials include pre-treated softwood, which is the least expensive, with installation costs up to £1,000 for 15m².

For something more durable, you may opt for hardwood, which could cost up to £2,000 for supply and installation.

Another popular material is composite decking. For example, composite wood polymer (WPC) decking costs around £1,600 for 15m².

This has the benefit of a modern and low-maintenance. PVC plastic is another great option, which is usually priced at around £30 to £40 per m², offering you an aesthetically pleasing decking material with mould-resistant qualities.

Other elements you need to consider include a weed-proof membrane, which usually costs around £10 per roll. To avoid further rotting, a professional will use wood oil or a decking preservative treatment, which could add around £25 or more to your bill.

You will also need to account for labour costs, which will depend on the time spent on the job as well as the materials used, as some are easier to install than others. However, typical labour costs are priced at £120 to £200 per day.

You may also need to consider waste removal if the job involves removing your existing garden decking. The cost of this will depend on how much waste needs to be taken away, although a typical removal job would be priced at £10 to £30 per square metre of waste.

Garden Decking Prices

There are various garden decking costs you need to consider when hiring a professional decking specialist. However, one of the biggest price factors is the size of your garden. Let's take a look at a small, 15 square metre garden to begin with:

Small Garden (15 square metres)

To compare, let's consider the decking costs associated with a medium-sized garden of around 30 square metres:

Medium-sized Garden (30 square metres)

Moving up the sizes, here's what a large garden of around 60 square metres will typically cost:

Large Garden (60 square metres)

Lastly, here's the typical garden decking costs for gardens of 90 square metres and above:

Extra-large Garden (90 square metres)

Garden Decking Supply-Only Costs

The costs of garden decking materials can vary significantly, so it's important to choose the right type for your budget and needs.

If you’re planning to install your decking yourself, you could save a significant amount as you will only have to pay for the cost of the materials. To help you decide which decking material to choose, take a look at the following supply-only decking costs:

Garden Decking Labour Costs and Timescales

The average decking installation usually takes around 1 to 2 days to complete, however, this will vary depending on the size of the garden, the materials used, and how many tradesmen are working on the job. A small garden of around 15 square metres may only take one day for two or more tradesmen to complete the job.

On the other hand, a decking installation which requires a significant amount of excavation — including removal of weeds, shrubs, trees, existing decking, and more — could take more than four days, especially for a large landscape. Garden maintenance costs start at £200 per day for jobs like grass cutting, weeding, watering, hedge trimming, and plant pruning.

If you need your garden landscaped before starting work on your decking, you may need to consider hiring a garden leveller beforehand. Garden levelling costs can range from £1,000 to £7,000 and above depending on the complexity of the job, and scope of work.

If you don’t feel confident to install DIY decking, your best bet is to call in a professional who will make sure that the job is done properly. Here are some representative labour costs to help you plan your budget:

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Additional Garden Decking Costs

There are plenty of other material costs you need to consider when having garden decking installed, although this will depend on your preferences.

It can be a good idea to make the most of gardeners being at your property to get a few jobs done at the same time to avoid repeat visits. If your garden fence has seen better days, you can have your garden fence repaired for £100 per metre of fencing material.

Here are some of the most common decking materials you'll come across during your project:

Some of these jobs may necessitate a waste removal service. Garden waste removal costs around £200, but prices vary depending on the exact type of garden waste, and whether or not it's considered a hazardous waste to dispose of.

What Are Some Budget Garden Decking Ideas?

If you’re on a budget, you may want to opt for a typical decking, which can be found in your local DIY store and will cost around £1,000.

This includes:

• Timber decking boards - £390
• Timber frame - £180
• Fixings - £20
• Membrane - £30
• Preservative - £30
• Waste removal and disposal - £50
• Labour - £300

For something high end and durable, you could opt for a more expensive option, which could cost up to £6,320. This includes the same price for the timber frames, membrane and waste disposal, although other costs include:

• Premium IPE boards - £3,000
• Fixings - £240
• Oil - £80
• Labour - £3,000

What Impacts the Cost of Garden Decking Installation?

When evaluating garden decking costs, there are various things you need to consider. First, you need to look at the condition of your terrain and determine whether it is flat, as sloping or difficult terrain will have a major impact on the cost.

The size of your garden will also have a massive effect on the price, as the larger your garden is, the more materials you will need. Larger decking will also take much longer, resulting in increased labour costs, as professional installers usually charge an average of £33 per square metre.

The material you choose is also a price factor, as some decking materials are more expensive than others. So, if you have a low budget in mind, you may want to stick to timber decking, which typically costs around £1,000 to £1,500 to install.

However, if you are thinking long-term, you may be better off with composite decking, which is more expensive, with prices up to £10,000 for larger gardens. While this may seem steep, you will get your money’s worth as this can last up to 30 years.

If you already have decking in your garden that needs to be replaced, you will also need to factor in the replacement costs. It may be that you only need some of your decking replaced, which can cost around £300. However, for a full replacement, you should expect to pay about £4,000 or more.

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Planning and Installation

How to Plan Garden Decking Project

Planning your garden deck is a crucial step in ensuring that your outdoor space is functional, safe, and aesthetically pleasing. Before you begin, consider the following:

• Size and shape of your garden: Measure your garden to determine the available space for your deck. Consider the layout and how the deck will fit into your overall garden design.
• Type of decking material: Decide whether you want to use softwood, hardwood, composite, or PVC decking. Each material has pros and cons, so choose one that fits your needs and budget.
• Budget for the project: Set a budget for your garden decking project, including materials, labour, and any additional features like railings or lighting.
• Purpose of the deck: Consider how you plan to use the deck. Will it be a space for dining, lounging, entertaining, or a combination of these activities?
• Local building regulations and planning permissions: Check with your local authority to ensure you comply with any building regulations and obtain necessary planning permissions.

Take time to research and gather inspiration from various sources, including online platforms, magazines, and showrooms. Create a sketch or drawing of your desired deck design, including the location of stairs, railings, and other features. This will help you visualise the final result and make any necessary adjustments before starting the project.

How to Lay Decking

Installing garden decking involves several steps, which you can find out about in our step-by-step how-to install deckinginstalling garden decking guide.

The installation process for garden decking typically involves the following steps:

• Preparation: Clear the area of debris, vegetation, and obstructions. Ensure the ground is level and stable.
• Groundwork: Lay a foundation of concrete or gravel to provide a stable base for the deck. This step is crucial for preventing future issues like sinking or shifting.
• Framing: Construct the frame of the deck using joists and beams. Ensure the frame is level and securely anchored to the ground.
• Decking: Install the decking boards, ensuring they are securely fastened to the frame. Leave a small gap between boards to allow for expansion and drainage.
• Railings and balustrades: Install railings and balustrades to provide safety and support. Choose materials that complement your decking and overall garden design.
• Finishing touches: Add decking screws, nails, and other finishing elements to complete the deck. Consider adding features like lighting, planters, or seating to enhance the functionality and aesthetics of your garden deck.

It’s essential to hire a professional decking installer or contractor to ensure that your deck is built to code and meets safety standards. A professional will have the experience and tools necessary to complete the job efficiently and correctly.

How Do I Know Which Type of Garden Decking Is Right for Me?

There are several different types of garden decking materials that you can choose from, each with a variety of pros and cons. Let's take a closer look.

Softwood (Pine, Spruce, Redwood, and Cedar)

Average cost: £16

Lifespan: 10 to 15 years

Pros of Softwood Decking

• ✔ Resistant to rot
• ✔ Does not warp
• ✔ Authentic aesthetic

Cons of Softwood Decking

• ✖ Low density
• ✖ Regular maintenance
• ✖ Inexpensive material

Hardwood (Beech, Tigerwood, Maple, and Oak)

Average cost: £33

Lifespan: 30 to 40 years

Pros of Hardwood Decking

• ✔ Fire-resistant
• ✔ Long-lasting
• ✔ Low-maintenance

Cons of Hardwood Decking

• ✖ Difficult to install
• ✖ Expensive material
• ✖ Can be hard to source

Composite Wood Polymer Composite (WPC)

Average cost: £66

Lifespan: 25 to 30 years

Pros of WPC

• ✔ Stain-resistant
• ✔ Lightweight
• ✔ Flexible application

Cons of WPC

• ✖ Can look synthetic
• ✖ Susceptible to mould
• ✖ Bends more than wood

Polyvinyl Chloride Composite (PVC)

Average cost: £23

Lifespan: 20 to 30 years

Pros of PVC Decking

• ✔ Easy to install
• ✔ Weather-resistant
• ✔ Eco-friendly

Cons of PVC Decking

• ✖ Susceptible to UV damage
• ✖ Difficult to repair
• ✖ Can look synthetic

IPE Wood (Brazilian Exotic Wood)

Average cost: £26

Lifespan: 60 to 75 years

Pros of IPE Wood

• ✔ Low-maintenance
• ✔ Durable material
• ✔ Low-maintenance

Cons of IPE Wood

• ✖ Heavy material
• ✖ Difficult to install
• ✖ Susceptible to rust

Trex

Average cost: £30

Lifespan: 25 to 30 years

Pros of TREX Decking

• ✔ Resistant to mould
• ✔ Does not warp
• ✔ Eco-friendly

Cons of TREX Decking

• ✖ Expensive repairs
• ✖ Cannot be refinished
• ✖ Can be expensive

Plastic Deck Tiles

Average cost: £33

Lifespan: 5 to 10 years

Pros of Plastic Deck Tiles

• ✔ Easy to install
• ✔ Cheap replacement
• ✔ Various applications

Cons of Plastic Deck Tiles

• ✖ Temporary solution
• ✖ Visible seams
• ✖ Add no value

Garden Decking Building Permissions

If you're planning on building a DIY deck, you should note that building regulations can be an issue - even with small decks. It's always worth checking with your local authority before you spend any money on decking, or begin any construction.

If you are going to build a substantial deck, keep neighbours informed and on-side from the start and be prepared to alter your building plans if they object.

Building regulations for decking only require you to apply for planning permission if your decking is over 30cm high. You may also need to apply if your decking or other extensions take up more than half of your garden space, as this is classed as a major alteration.

If you do fall into the above categories, then you should expect to pay around £243 for planning permission. If you fail to pay this, you will be fined and you may also face issues with your local council or neighbours.

Costs of Garden Decking Maintenance and Cleaning

Garden decking will require regular maintenance, the degree of maintenance required depends upon a number of factors such as the quality of the material used, the construction and the location. Well-designed and constructed timber decking should last 15 years or more, and there is no requirement to apply preservative treatments as long as basic maintenance is carried out.

Fortunately, the maintenance required is pretty simple - regular brushing to remove organic debris plus perhaps a water repellent coating used to nourish the wood every other year. However, any decorative stains will also need to be refreshed to maintain their appearance every few years depending on usage and weather.

When maintaining and cleaning your decking, it is important to understand the level of maintenance required for different materials, including:

Softwood and Hardwood

This requires yearly maintenance including sanding, staining, and sealing which would cost around £10 per square metre. You should also try to keep on top of it by cleaning it with a decking cleaner which costs around £6 to £15. This will help to keep the wood’s natural colour, making it appear brand new.

IPE wood

This type of wood is low-maintenance so would only require you to oil it once a year. The cost of decking oil is around £30 for five litres.

Composite, PVC, and Trex

Composite, PVC, and Trex require a simple cleaning procedure which involves soap, hot water and a soft-bristle brush. You should try to clean it a few times a year including after installation and once or twice in spring and autumn. The only cost you may incur is replacements costs, as unfortunately composite cannot be sanded to remove dents, It must be replaced which could cost up to £66 per square metre.

You should also consider additional repair costs, such as:

• Damaged deck boards - £950
• Loose stairs - £100 to £250
• Mould and rot - £150 to £450
• Stain and seal - £7 per square metre

These repairs can be conducted by you or a professional, although for the latter you will also need to consider the labour cost which is usually around £300 for repairs.

Garden Decking Removal Costs

If you require new decking or want to get rid of your decking altogether you may need to call in a professional or you could also do it yourself. If you opt to do it yourself you may want to hire equipment to assist you. A shredder, for example, would cost around £100 to £200 a week, but would reduce waste removal costs.

To remove your decking, you should start by removing the stairs and railings with a drill or electric screwdriver. You should then move onto the legs and feet, which will most likely be secured with concrete, although they can easily be removed using a shovel.

If your decking is fairly new, the concrete may be harder, so may need to hire a tractor or a similar vehicle to get the job done which can cost around £100 per day.

Many people prefer to hire a professional for the job, which would cost around £100 to £500 for 2 to 7 hours. While this may seem expensive, it may be worth it in the long run as you can install your new decking quickly while also avoiding any mistakes made if doing it yourself.

DIY Decking?

While it’s possible to DIY decking, it’s not recommended unless you have extensive carpentry experience and knowledge of local building regulations. Decking installation requires specialised skills and equipment, and mistakes can lead to safety hazards and costly repairs.

However, if you’re determined to DIY your decking, here are some tips to consider:

• Start with a small, simple project: Gain experience and build confidence by starting with a smaller, less complex decking project.
• Research and follow local building codes and regulations: Ensure your project complies with all relevant building codes and regulations to avoid fines and safety issues.
• Choose a decking material that is easy to work with: Composite or PVC decking can be easier to handle and install compared to hardwood or softwood.
• Invest in quality tools and equipment: Accurate and safe installation requires the right tools. Invest in high-quality tools to make the job easier and more precise.
• Consider enlisting the help of a friend or family member with carpentry experience: Having an extra pair of hands and some additional expertise can make the project go more smoothly.

Remember, DIY decking can be a cost-effective option, but it’s essential to prioritise safety and quality to avoid costly mistakes and potential hazards. If you’re unsure about any aspect of the project, it’s always best to consult with a professional.

Checklist: Hiring a Garden Decking Installer in the UK

Before you hire someone to install your garden decking, there are some things you should consider. Below is a checklist for you to follow when you're searching for a garden decking installer.

• Don't hire the first business to give you a quote. Shop around, even if the price is low, as you should always compare multiple quotes.
• Ask your garden decking specialist for references and photos. It's important to ensure that your installer is capable of the job before you commit. Seeing photos of previous work will not only allow them to demonstrate their ability, but will also give you peace of mind.
• Ensure you get a written agreement in place for the work that you need. A written agreement will give you a clear outline of what the job includes and a breakdown of the costs. This could also allow you to cut costs by doing the jobs you think you could do yourself.
• Check if your decking installer is insured, and holds the relevant liability for any unexpected damage to your property.
• Remember to get a written receipt after making any payments. This will protect you from any disputes in the future.

FAQs

Sources

https://ipewoods.com/pros-cons-using-ipe-wood-decking-material/
https://www.tilehomeguide.com/deck-tiles-pros-and-cons/
https://home-gardener.co.uk/decking