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The sunshine hasn’t quite gone yet… but there’s no question that it’s gotten notably cooler recently. So much as we all might not want to admit it, the summer days are fading into the distance. Happily though, that doesn’t necessarily mean you have to bid goodbye to your garden decking just yet. There are still plenty of ways you can enjoy it even as we start to tentatively tiptoe into autumn. With the right warmth, light, furnishings, and care, you can continue to enjoy meals, drinks, and gatherings under the open sky well into the season.
Here at Savoy Timber, we have decades of experience in supplying the best top-quality decking to customers all over the UK, and all at the very best prices – so you can count on us to have a few ideas!
When temperatures begin to drop, your first priority is probably going to be to ensure that you and your guests stay comfortable in the warmth. Patio heaters can be a great solution, and you can place them around the seating area to evenly distribute heat. If you prefer something with more atmosphere, a fire pit or chiminea can provide both heat and visual appeal, creating a focal point that encourages guests to gather around, making your deck feel like a welcoming retreat.
You can also look at softer additions that make a big difference. Thick outdoor rugs can help to trap heat underfoot and stop the chill from seeping through decking boards. Thermal blankets or throws can also give everyone the option to wrap up while staying outside. Even just small cushions can help maximise comfort, especially if they’re designed for outdoor use. Small touches like these create a layered warmth that encourages longer evenings outdoors.
And don’t forget about overhead coverage! A pergola or awning with fitted heaters can provide shelter while also containing warmth, creating an almost room-like atmosphere outside. That can help your decking to naturally become a place where friends and family want to stay, even when there’s a noticeable nip in the air.
Lighting can illuminate your decking, set the mood, and make the space safe to use after dark. String lights can give a warm, gentle glow. You can drape them along railings, overhead beams, or wrap them around trees or posts. Lanterns with battery-operated candles can add charm with a soft glow.
For a practical approach, you can install deck lights recessed into the boards or fixed along steps and pathways. These lights can look elegant and also help prevent trips when people move around. Wall-mounted sconces or standing lamps built for outdoor use can give stronger light if you plan to dine or play games late into the night. A mix of ambient and task lighting can let you adjust the atmosphere depending on whether you want a relaxed evening or a lively gathering.
The type of bulbs you choose can influence the mood. Warm tones can give a cosy atmosphere, while cool tones can suit task-based activities such as cooking or board games. With solar-powered options available, you don’t need to worry about running cables across your decking. Planning your lighting scheme in advance can help turn the space into an inviting place once the sun goes down.
Your seating and tables can be set up to handle the shift in weather. Cushions with water-resistant covers can allow you to leave them out overnight without damage. If you already have standard cushions, you can place waterproof storage boxes nearby. In that way, the cushions can stay protected while still being ready to bring out when guests arrive. Covers for your furniture can extend its life and keep it looking good for longer.
Accessories can support comfort further. Windbreaks made from screens or tall plants can reduce gusts that make evenings feel colder. Outdoor curtains hung on a pergola or canopy can look stylish and provide shelter from sudden breezes. Side tables and trays can give everyone somewhere handy to place drinks or food, which can add to the relaxed feel of an outdoor evening. Thinking about how people actually use the space can lead to small changes that keep gatherings enjoyable.
Another way to add comfort is layering textures. Throws, cushions, rugs, and covers can keep people warm and make the space more inviting, so guests can sink in and stay for hours.
As nights grow cooler, the dampness often increases in turn, so it’s important to keep your decking in good condition. You can start by sweeping away leaves and debris regularly, since these can trap moisture and cause staining or rot. Washing the boards with a suitable decking cleaner can clear dirt and help prevent mould growth. Once clean, it helps to apply a protective oil or stain to block water from seeping into the wood and guard against damage.
You can also check the structure and fittings before the weather worsens. Look for loose boards, raised nails, or any signs of wear that can create hazards when more rain and frost arrive. If your decking has lighting or electrical features, you can test them to confirm they’re safe and working properly. These sorts of simple maintenance steps now can reduce the chance of larger repairs later and make sure your deck stays ready to enjoy through the season.
It can be worth scheduling a deeper inspection at least once a year, especially if your decking is exposed to heavy rainfall or damp conditions, as that can help you deal with problems before they spread.
Those are just a few of our top suggestions! Whether you already have a small decking area, or you’re thinking about adding one but don’t have room for a large setup, we can help you make the most of the space you have. From classic timber boards to low-maintenance composite decking options, our range is designed to be practical, stylish, and easy to install.
And if you’ve got any questions about our decking, just give our experts a call on 0345 0268 799 or visit us at one of our stores in Preston, Bradford, Wigan, or Blackpool, and we’ll help you turn your small decking ideas into a space you’ll love to use every day!
