Decking Cost Guide: Prices & Installation in the UK 2025

Understanding Decking Costs in 2025

A beautiful deck transforms your outdoor space into an extension of your home, perfect for entertaining, relaxing, and enjoying the British summer. With costs ranging from £1,500 for a small softwood deck to £15,000+ for a large composite installation, understanding what you'll pay is essential for effective planning.

This comprehensive guide breaks down decking costs across the UK in 2025, covering everything from budget-friendly timber options to premium composite materials. Whether you're creating a small seating area or an expansive entertainment space, you'll find the pricing insights you need to make informed decisions.

Average Decking Costs by Material

Decking material is the primary cost driver, affecting both initial installation and long-term maintenance expenses.

Softwood Decking Costs

Treated softwood (pine, spruce) is the most affordable option.

Materials (per m²)

1. Basic pressure-treated: £25 - £40
1. Premium treated softwood: £35 - £55
• Anti-slip grooved boards: £30 - £50

Installation (per m²)

1. Labour and substructure: £50 - £80
• Total installed cost: £75 - £135 per m²

Typical Deck Sizes

1. Small deck (10m²): £750 - £1,350
1. Medium deck (20m²): £1,500 - £2,700
• Large deck (40m²): £3,000 - £5,400

Pros: Affordable, natural appearance, easy to work with Cons: Requires annual maintenance, 10-15 year lifespan, can warp or splinter Best for: Budget projects, temporary installations, DIY builds

Hardwood Decking Costs

Hardwood (oak, iroko, ipe) offers superior durability and aesthetics.

Materials (per m²)

1. European oak: £60 - £90
1. Iroko: £70 - £100
1. Ipe (Brazilian hardwood): £80 - £120
• Cumaru: £75 - £110

Installation (per m²)

1. Labour and substructure: £60 - £100
• Total installed cost: £120 - £220 per m²

Typical Deck Sizes

1. Small deck (10m²): £1,200 - £2,200
1. Medium deck (20m²): £2,400 - £4,400
• Large deck (40m²): £4,800 - £8,800

Pros: 25-30 year lifespan, beautiful grain, very durable, weathers to silver-grey Cons: Higher initial cost, still needs annual cleaning/oiling Best for: Long-term investment, premium aesthetics, high-traffic areas

Composite Decking Costs

Composite boards (wood fibre and plastic) offer low-maintenance durability.

Materials (per m²)

1. Basic composite: £45 - £65
1. Mid-range composite: £60 - £90
1. Premium composite: £80 - £130
• Capped composite: £90 - £150

Installation (per m²)

1. Labour and substructure: £55 - £90
• Total installed cost: £100 - £240 per m²

Typical Deck Sizes

1. Small deck (10m²): £1,000 - £2,400
1. Medium deck (20m²): £2,000 - £4,800
• Large deck (40m²): £4,000 - £9,600

Pros: 25+ year lifespan, minimal maintenance, fade/stain resistant, no splinters Cons: Higher upfront cost, can feel artificial, limited colour changes Best for: Low-maintenance lifestyles, family-friendly spaces, modern aesthetics

Alternative Decking Materials

Aluminium Decking

1. Material cost: £100 - £180 per m²
1. Total installed: £160 - £270 per m²
1. Pros: Lightweight, fire-resistant, 50+ years lifespan
• Cons: Expensive, industrial look, gets hot in sun

Plastic/PVC Decking

1. Material cost: £35 - £60 per m²
1. Total installed: £90 - £150 per m²
1. Pros: Fully waterproof, very low maintenance
• Cons: Can look cheap, limited colour options

Recycled Composite

1. Material cost: £40 - £70 per m²
1. Total installed: £95 - £160 per m²
1. Pros: Eco-friendly, durable, affordable
• Cons: Variable quality, less aesthetic appeal

Cost Breakdown by Deck Size

Small Deck (10-15m²)

Perfect for small gardens, intimate seating areas

Softwood: £750 - £2,000 Hardwood: £1,200 - £3,300 Composite: £1,000 - £3,600 Timeline: 1-3 days Common uses: Bistro seating, hot tub base, small patio replacement

Medium Deck (20-30m²)

Ideal for family gardens, dining areas

Softwood: £1,500 - £4,000 Hardwood: £2,400 - £6,600 Composite: £2,000 - £7,200 Timeline: 3-5 days Common uses: Garden dining, lounging area, moderate entertaining space

Large Deck (40-50m²)

Great for extensive entertaining, multi-level designs

Softwood: £3,000 - £6,750 Hardwood: £4,800 - £11,000 Composite: £4,000 - £12,000 Timeline: 5-10 days Common uses: Wraparound decks, multi-level designs, garden rooms

Extra Large Deck (60m²+)

Perfect for luxury gardens, commercial spaces

Softwood: £4,500 - £10,000+ Hardwood: £7,200 - £16,500+ Composite: £6,000 - £18,000+ Timeline: 10-15+ days Common uses: Extensive entertainment areas, restaurant terraces, luxury homes

What's Included in Decking Installation?

Ground Preparation (10-15% of total cost)

1. Site clearance and levelling
1. Weed membrane installation
1. Gravel or paving base (if needed)
• Drainage considerations

Substructure (20-30% of total cost)

1. Treated timber joists
1. Concrete pads or adjustable pedestals
1. Steel support brackets
• Noggins and bracing

Decking Boards (40-50% of total cost)

1. Board material (chosen type)
1. Fixings (hidden or visible)
1. Edge trims and fascia boards
• Wastage allowance (10-15%)

Labour (25-35% of total cost)

1. Professional installation
1. Cutting and fitting
1. Quality finishing
• Site clean-up

Optional Extras

1. Balustrades/railings: £50 - £150 per linear metre
1. Steps: £300 - £800 per flight
1. Built-in seating: £400 - £1,500
1. Lighting: £200 - £1,000
• Pergola/canopy: £1,500 - £5,000

Regional Cost Variations

Decking installation costs vary across the UK due to labour rates and material transport.

London and South East

1. Premium: +20-25% above national average
1. Medium composite deck (20m²): £2,800 - £6,000
1. Labour rate: £200 - £300 per day
• High demand: 4-8 week lead times in summer

South West

1. Premium: +10-15% above national average
1. Medium composite deck (20m²): £2,400 - £5,500
1. Labour rate: £180 - £250 per day
• Seasonal: Higher demand in coastal areas

Midlands

1. Pricing: National average
1. Medium composite deck (20m²): £2,200 - £4,800
1. Labour rate: £150 - £220 per day
• Competitive: Good availability and value

North England

1. Discount: -10-15% below national average
1. Medium composite deck (20m²): £2,000 - £4,300
1. Labour rate: £140 - £200 per day
• Best value: Lower overall costs

Scotland

1. Pricing: -5-10% below national average
1. Medium composite deck (20m²): £2,100 - £4,600
1. Labour rate: £150 - £210 per day
• Weather: Consider drainage needs

Wales

1. Discount: -10-15% below national average
1. Medium composite deck (20m²): £1,900 - £4,200
1. Labour rate: £140 - £200 per day
• Rural areas: Best pricing, longer lead times

Factors Affecting Decking Costs

1. Site Accessibility

Easy Access (Ground Level)

1. Materials delivered close to site: Base cost
• Standard installation: No premium

Difficult Access

1. Upper floor/roof terrace: +15-25%
1. Narrow side passages: +10-15%
1. Materials carried distance: +£200 - £500
• Crane hire needed: +£400 - £1,000

2. Ground Condition

Level, Firm Ground: Base cost Sloping Ground: +10-20% (more joists/posts needed) Uneven/Soft Ground: +15-30% (extensive prep required) Poor Drainage: +£500 - £2,000 (drainage solutions needed)

3. Design Complexity

Simple Rectangle: Base cost Angled Corners: +10-15% Curved Edges: +20-30% Multi-level Deck: +25-40% Built-in Features: +£500 - £3,000 per feature

4. Substructure Type

Timber Joists on Concrete Pads: Base cost (most common) Adjustable Pedestals: +20-30% (for uneven ground) Steel Frame: +30-50% (for roof terraces, balconies) Timber Posts Set in Concrete: +15-25% (for raised decks)

5. Fixings and Finish

Visible Screws: Base cost Hidden Fixings: +15-20% (cleaner look) Fascia Boards: +£15 - £30 per linear metre Bullnose Edge Trim: +£20 - £40 per linear metre

6. Additional Features

Balustrades

1. Timber: £50 - £90 per metre
1. Glass: £150 - £300 per metre
1. Stainless steel: £100 - £200 per metre
• Cable rail: £80 - £150 per metre

Steps and Stairs

1. Simple 2-3 step: £300 - £600
1. Full staircase: £800 - £2,000
• Curved steps: £1,200 - £3,000

Integrated Lighting

1. LED deck lights: £15 - £40 each
1. Post cap lights: £25 - £60 each
1. Strip lighting: £30 - £80 per metre
• Installation: £200 - £600 total

Built-in Seating

1. Simple bench: £400 - £800
1. L-shaped seating: £800 - £1,500
• Full perimeter seating: £1,500 - £3,000

DIY vs Professional Installation

DIY Decking Costs

Materials Only (20m² composite deck)

1. Decking boards: £1,200 - £1,800
1. Substructure timber: £300 - £500
1. Fixings and accessories: £150 - £300
1. Tools (if buying): £200 - £400
• Total DIY cost: £1,850 - £3,000

Time Investment

1. Planning and design: 4-8 hours
1. Ground preparation: 1-2 days
1. Frame construction: 1-2 days
1. Board installation: 2-3 days
• Total time: 5-8 days for beginners

DIY Savings: 40-50% on labour Challenges

1. Requires carpentry skills
1. Need appropriate tools
1. Heavy materials to handle
1. Ensuring level and stability
1. Building regulations compliance
• No guarantee on workmanship

Professional Installation Benefits

Typical Professional Cost (20m² composite deck)

1. Materials: £1,200 - £1,800
1. Labour: £1,100 - £1,800
1. Substructure: £300 - £500
• Total professional cost: £2,600 - £4,100

Advantages

1. Expert design advice
1. Proper ground preparation
1. Level, stable installation
1. Faster completion (2-4 days)
1. Workmanship guarantee
1. Building regulations handled
• Professional finish

When to Use Professionals

1. Decks over 1m high (safety critical)
1. Complex designs or multi-level
1. Difficult access or ground conditions
1. When speed is important
• For guaranteed quality

Hidden Costs to Budget For

Planning and Regulations

1. Planning permission: £206 (if needed—most don't require it)
1. Building regulations: Usually not required for decks under 30cm high
• Party wall agreement: £700 - £1,500 (if deck affects neighbours)

Site Preparation

1. Tree/shrub removal: £200 - £1,000
1. Old patio demolition: £300 - £800
1. Soil removal/redistribution: £200 - £600
• Drainage installation: £300 - £1,500

Access Issues

1. Scaffolding: £400 - £1,200 (for upper floors)
1. Crane hire: £400 - £1,000 (if needed)
• Permit for road closure: £100 - £200

Long-term Costs

Softwood Maintenance (Annual)

1. Cleaning: £50 - £150 (DIY) or £200 - £400 (professional)
1. Treatment/stain: £100 - £300
1. Repairs: £100 - £500
• Annual cost: £250 - £1,200

Hardwood Maintenance (Annual)

1. Cleaning: £50 - £150 (DIY) or £200 - £400 (professional)
1. Oiling: £100 - £250
1. Minor repairs: £50 - £300
• Annual cost: £200 - £950

Composite Maintenance (Annual)

1. Cleaning: £30 - £100 (DIY) or £150 - £300 (professional)
1. Occasional repairs: £0 - £200
• Annual cost: £30 - £500

How to Save Money on Decking

1. Choose Cost-Effective Materials

Softwood vs Hardwood: Save 35-50% initially Standard vs Premium Composite: Save 25-40% Simple Board Pattern: Diagonal/herringbone adds 15-25% 5-Year Cost Comparison (20m² deck)

1. Softwood: £2,700 + £1,250 maintenance = £3,950
1. Composite: £4,800 + £250 maintenance = £5,050
• Hardwood: £5,500 + £1,000 maintenance = £6,500

Composite becomes cost-effective after ~8 years

2. Simplify the Design

Rectangular vs Complex Shape: Save 20-30% Single Level vs Multi-level: Save 25-40% Minimal Built-ins: Save £1,000 - £3,000

3. Time Your Project

Winter Installation (Nov-Feb)

1. Discounts: 10-20% on labour
1. Better availability: Shorter lead times
1. Negotiation power: Less demand
• Potential saving: £300 - £800 on medium deck

Avoid Peak Season (May-July)

1. Highest prices
1. Longest wait times (6-12 weeks)
• Less room for negotiation

4. Do Prep Work Yourself

Save £300 - £800 by:

1. Clearing the site
1. Removing old structures
1. Levelling ground (if simple)
• Installing weed membrane

5. Source Materials Strategically

Buy Direct from Suppliers

1. Save 10-20% vs installer markup
1. Ensure delivery timing aligns
• Check all materials included

End of Line/Clearance

1. Save 30-50% on discontinued colours
1. Limited quantity—suitable for small decks
• Same quality, last season's range

6. Reduce Extras

Skip or Simplify

1. Balustrades (if under 60cm high): Save £500 - £2,000
1. Built-in seating (buy separate): Save £600 - £2,000
• Integrated lighting (add solar): Save £300 - £800

7. Get Multiple Quotes

Prices vary 25-40% between installers:

1. Get 3-5 detailed quotes
1. Compare like-for-like specs
1. Check materials quality
• Verify guarantee terms

Questions to Ask Decking Installers

About Their Experience

1. How many decks have you installed?

1. Can I see photos of similar projects?

1. Do you have local references I can contact?

1. What qualifications/training do you have?

Are you insured for decking work?

About the Quote

1. What exactly is included in the price?

1. What quality/grade of materials will be used?

1. Are all fixings and accessories included?

1. What's the payment schedule?

Are there any potential extra costs?

About the Installation

1. How long will the project take?

1. How will you prepare the site?

1. What substructure will you use?

1. How will you ensure it's level and stable?

What happens with waste removal?

About Building Regulations

1. Do I need planning permission or building regs approval?

1. Will you handle any required applications?

1. How high will the deck be?

What safety measures are included?

About Guarantees

1. What guarantee do you provide on workmanship?

1. What warranty comes with the materials?

1. What does the guarantee cover?

1. How do I make a claim if issues arise?

Is the guarantee transferable?

Planning Permission and Building Regulations

When You DON'T Need Planning Permission

Most garden decks are permitted development if:

1. No higher than 30cm above ground level
1. Not in front of the house
1. Doesn't cover more than 50% of garden
1. Not on a listed building
• Not in a conservation area

When You DO Need Planning Permission

1. Deck higher than 30cm above ground
1. Front garden or highly visible location
1. Listed building (always required)
1. Conservation area
1. Overlooking neighbour's property
• Covers more than 50% of garden

Planning application cost: £206, processing time 8 weeks

Building Regulations

Generally NOT required for:

1. Ground-level decks
1. Decks under 30cm high
• No structural changes to property

MAY be required for:

1. Decks over 30cm high (fall hazard)
1. Decks attached to upper floors
1. Any electrical work
• Structural connections to the house

Always check with local building control

Decking Lifespan and Maintenance

Expected Lifespans

1. Softwood: 10-15 years (with proper maintenance)
1. Hardwood: 25-30 years (with annual oiling)
1. Composite: 25-30+ years (minimal maintenance)
• Aluminium: 50+ years (virtually maintenance-free)

Annual Maintenance Requirements

Softwood Decking

1. Spring clean with deck cleaner
1. Apply wood treatment/stain annually
1. Check and tighten fixings
1. Replace damaged boards
• Clear drainage gaps

Hardwood Decking

1. Spring clean with specialist cleaner
1. Oil annually (or leave to weather naturally)
1. Check fixings annually
• Sand and re-oil worn areas

Composite Decking

1. Wash with soapy water 2-3 times yearly
1. Remove organic debris regularly
1. Check fixings every 2-3 years
• Replace damaged boards as needed

Common Issues and Costs

1. Board replacement: £50 - £150 per board (inc. labour)
1. Re-staining/oiling entire deck: £200 - £600
1. Joist repair: £150 - £400 per section
• Fixing adjustment/tightening: £100 - £300

Return on Investment

Decking offers good ROI when selling your property.

Value Added

Budget Deck (softwood): 50-70% cost recovery

1. Spend: £2,500
• Value added: £1,250 - £1,750

Mid-Range Deck (composite): 70-90% cost recovery

1. Spend: £4,500
• Value added: £3,150 - £4,050

Premium Deck (hardwood/large composite): 60-80% cost recovery

1. Spend: £8,000
• Value added: £4,800 - £6,400

Best ROI Features

1. Integrated seating: Highly valued convenience

1. Quality materials: Composite or hardwood impresses

1. Professional finish: Clean, level, well-installed

1. Good size: Proportional to garden (20-30% coverage)

Lighting: Extends usability, adds appeal

When Decking Adds Most Value

1. Family homes: Outdoor space premium
1. No patio/hard standing: Creates entertaining area
1. Sloping gardens: Levels create usable space
1. Small gardens: Maximises limited outdoor space
• Urban properties: Outdoor space at a premium

Get Free Decking Quotes

Ready to create your perfect outdoor space? BetterHomeHub connects you with verified decking specialists across the UK.

Why choose BetterHomeHub?

✓ Expert installers - Experienced professionals with proven track records ✓ Free quotes - Compare up to 5 detailed quotes at no cost ✓ All materials covered - Softwood, hardwood, composite specialists ✓ Guaranteed quality - All work comes with guarantees ✓ Read reviews - See genuine customer feedback ✓ Local specialists - Connect with decking experts in your area Getting started is simple:

1. Describe your project - Tell us about your decking plans

1. Receive quotes - Get detailed quotes from local professionals

1. Compare options - Review materials, designs, and pricing

Choose and book - Select your installer and start your project

Get free decking quotes now and transform your garden with trusted professionals.

Conclusion

Installing a deck is an excellent way to enhance your outdoor living space and add value to your home. With costs ranging from £750 for a small softwood deck to £18,000+ for an extensive composite installation, understanding your options and getting accurate quotes is essential.

Key takeaways for your decking project:

1. Choose materials wisely - Balance upfront cost with long-term maintenance
1. Consider total cost - Include annual maintenance in your calculations
1. Compare quotes thoroughly - Prices vary significantly between installers
1. Plan for the long term - Composite may cost more initially but saves money over time
1. Check regulations - Confirm planning permission and building regs requirements
• Use professionals for complex projects - Safety and quality justify the investment

Whether you're creating a compact seating area or an expansive entertainment deck, BetterHomeHub connects you with experienced specialists who can bring your vision to life. Start your outdoor transformation today with confidence, armed with the knowledge to make informed decisions and get the best value for your investment.