4 things to consider before building decking in your garden

Thinking about adding decking to your garden? It’s one of the best ways to transform your outdoor space into a comfortable, stylish area for relaxing, dining, or entertaining friends and family. But before you jump straight in with the tools and timber, there are a few important things to consider to make sure your decking project goes smoothly and ends up looking exactly how you want it to.

Timber and composite decking might look simple on the surface, but there’s quite a bit to plan. From choosing the right size and materials to figuring out the best design and even the lighting, every decision you make now will affect how your decking looks, feels and performs for years to come.

So whether you’re a DIY enthusiast or planning to hire a pro, this guide will help you think through the key points so you don’t miss anything crucial – and avoid costly mistakes or unexpected headaches. Let’s dive in!

1. How big should your deck be?

Size really matters when it comes to decking. You’ll need to think carefully about how much space you want your deck to take up in your garden – and whether it will fit comfortably where you want it.

Ask yourself: what do you want to use the deck for? Is it just a small corner for morning coffee or a large area for outdoor dining and socialising? If you’re hoping to add furniture like tables and chairs, or maybe even a BBQ or firepit, you’ll need a bigger deck to accommodate those extras without it feeling cramped.

Also, consider the space you have available. There’s no point in planning a huge deck if your garden is tight or if it will block pathways or other features. Measure your garden space carefully and think about how the deck will fit into the overall flow of your outdoor area.

2. Getting the look and feel right

Your decking isn’t just a platform; it’s part of your home’s personality, an extra room if you like. The materials, colours, and finishes you choose will set the tone for your outdoor space, so it’s worth spending time on this part. Think about how your decking will blend with your house exterior, garden plants, fences, and furniture.

There are loads of options – hardwoods like oak or tropical hardwood offer a rich, traditional feel and are very durable, but they need some upkeep. Softwoods, especially pressure-treated varieties, give a classic look at a lower cost. Composite decking is perfect if you want something low-maintenance and long-lasting, with anti-slip surfaces that are ideal for rainy UK weather.

We always recommend ordering samples if you can, and with us at Savoy Timber, you can request samples of both our composite decking and timber decking. We’ll deliver them straight to your door so you can see and feel the materials in your own space. This hands-on experience makes it much easier to imagine how each option will look and perform in your garden, helping you make a confident choice that perfectly suits your style and vision perfectly.

3. How are you going to light up your decking?

Lighting might seem like a small detail, but it makes a huge difference – not just for how your decking looks, but for how safe it is to use after dark. You’ll probably find yourself out there after the sun goes down, whether you’re tidying up or just enjoying a quiet evening, so having good lighting helps you avoid trips and tumbles.

Simple options like LED strip lights along the edges or spotlights in shadowy corners can really help with visibility. If you want something low-maintenance, solar-powered lights are a great shout – they charge up during the day and light up your deck at night without needing any wiring or electricity.

Of course, lighting isn’t just about safety; it’s also about creating the right vibe. String lights or fairy lights draped above or around your decking can add a cosy, welcoming glow. Lanterns with battery-operated candles are another lovely way to add soft, flickering light without any fire risk.
And don’t forget those little touches – low-level lights along steps or under the decking boards provide just enough glow to highlight edges, making the space safer and giving your garden a subtle, stylish boost.

4. DIY or call in the experts?

If your garden is fairly level and you’re confident with a few tools, our Decking Kits are a brilliant option. Each kit includes everything you need – with slightly oversized joists that can be trimmed on-site for a neat, tailored fit. Available in a wide range of sizes and styles, with or without balustrades or handrails, they make it easy to create a professional-looking deck yourself.

Looking for something a little more low-maintenance? Our EZIDECKING Composite Kits come with all the essentials – composite boards, base frames, fascias, fixings – and they’re pre-finished on three sides for a clean, seamless finish. Need a larger layout or finishing on all four sides? We’re happy to provide a custom quote tailored to your space.

Now, if your garden is uneven, sloped, or has awkward ground conditions like clay or sand, it’s often worth calling in a professional. Building a safe, stable deck on challenging terrain can require expert knowledge and experience, especially when it comes to foundations and drainage. Getting it right from the start will save you time, stress, and the cost of potential repairs later on!

At Savoy Timber, we’re here to make your decking project as easy as possible. You’ll find friendly, expert advice in all four of our North West stores – Blackpool, Wigan, Preston, and Bradford – alongside our full range of composite and timber decking products. Whether you’re just starting out or tackling a tricky space, we’re always happy to help you find the right solution. Why not pop in and see what we can do for you?