Garden Decking Cost

Wondering how much garden decking costs in 2025?

If so, this guide is essential reading. We'll walk you through how much it costs to install garden decking (with prices for softwood, composite, and other materials) and what will impact the prices you're quoted.

Would you like a clearer idea of what to expect?

MyJobQuote makes it quick and easy to get free, no-obligation quotes from decking installers near you. Getting a quote isn't a commitment — it's just a smart way to understand what's realistic in your case.

Keep reading for a closer look at decking installation costs.

Decking Cost Calculator

How Much is Decking in the UK?

The typical cost of garden decking is around £1,750 for 1 to 2 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 between £1,080 to £1,320 for 15m².

For something more durable, you may opt for hardwood, which could cost up to £1,840 for 15m² supply and installation.

Another popular material is composite decking. For example, composite wood polymer (WPC) decking costs are around £2,080 to £2,260 for 15m².

PVC plastic is another great option, which is usually priced at around £880 to £1,100 for 15m², offering you an aesthetically pleasing decking material with mould-resistant qualities.

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, 15m² garden to begin with:

Small Garden (15m²)

To compare, let's consider the decking costs associated with a medium-sized garden of around 30m²:

Medium-sized Garden (30m²)

Moving up the sizes, here's what a large garden of around 60m² will typically cost:

Large Garden (60m²)

Lastly, here's the typical garden decking costs for gardens of 90m² and above:

Extra-large Garden (90m²)

Garden Decking Supply Cost

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:

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

Labour Cost to Lay Decking & Timescales

Now, let's take a look at decking installation costs in 2025.

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 15m² may only take 1 day for 2 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 4 days, especially for a large landscape.

If you don’t feel confident in installing DIY decking, your best bet is to call in a professional who will make sure that the job is done properly.

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Costs of Garden Decking Maintenance and Cleaning

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

Softwood and Hardwood

Timber needs regular care — clean, then oil or stain on a schedule that suits exposure. Keep surfaces clear of debris to slow algae.

You should also try to keep on top of it by cleaning it with a decking cleaner, which costs around £6.60 to £16.50. 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 it would only require you to oil it once a year. The cost of decking oil is around £33 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.

Composite can’t be sanded back like timber. If a board is badly gouged, you’ll replace that board rather than refinish it.

You should also consider additional repair costs, such as:

• Damaged deck boards - £1,050
• Loose stairs - £110 to £275
• Mould and rot - £165 to £495
• Stain and seal - £7.70 per m²

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 £330 for repairs.

What Impacts the Garden Decking Installation Costs?

Decking quotes swing on a few simple things. Glance at these, and you’ll know why one price is higher than another.

• Material choice: Timber is the budget route. Composite costs more upfront, but you won’t need to maintain it quite as much. Premium boards and hidden fixings will see you forking out a little more, though.
• Size of the deck: Bigger areas mean more boards and fixings, not to mention time. Most installers charge per m². So, area is the main driver.
• Site prep and levelling: Flat, firm ground will cost a lot less. Slopes, bumps or boggy patches can mean levelling, sub-base, or raised frames. Big reshapes? Check garden levelling costs.
• Access: Tight side paths, steps or long carries slow things down and add labour time and make delivery trickier.
• Design complexity: Simple rectangles are quickest. Curves, borders, herringbone, split levels, planters or built-in seating add hours and fixings.
• Height, steps and rails: Raised decks need beefier subframes and a lot more posts. Add balustrades, gates and steps, and the total climbs again. Raised decks need guarding and handrails — plan these early so posts and fixings are built in. Plan this at the design stage so posts and fixings are included.
• Foundations and subframe: Concrete pads, ground screws or pedestals all sit at different price points. Soft ground and heavier loads push you to stronger (and pricier) options.
• Old surfaces to remove: Lifting an old deck, patio or turf means more labour and disposal. It’s less costly if the area’s cleared before the team arrives.
• Clearing and waste: Many quotes include a basic tidy, but heavy spoil or lots of roots may need a skip or collection. If it’s not included, see garden waste removal prices and skip hire costs.
• Electrics and lighting: Uplighters, sockets, or step lights need cabling and a qualified electrician — add a little extra to the budget if you want them.
• Location and labour rates: Day rates can fluctuate a bit depending on where you live. For instance, if you live in London or the South East, expect to pay more. Also, prices are affected by the team’s experience. Even though larger crews finish faster, you’ll pay for more hands on site.
• Finishing touches: Weed membrane, trims, fascia boards, oil or stain and tidy edging don’t cost loads each, but they do add up. So, make sure they’re listed on the quote.

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

Choose the board that fits your home and how you’ll use the space. Here’s a quick look at the main options with clear pros and cons.

Softwood (Pine, Spruce, Redwood, Cedar)

• Best for: Natural look on a sensible budget.
• Material cost: Around £22 (see price tables).

Great starter choice that suits most gardens. Treat it each year and it’ll keep its colour and shape.

Pros

• ✔ Warm, classic appearance.
• ✔ Simple to cut and fix.
• ✔ Gentle under bare feet.

Cons

• ✖ Regular oiling or staining.
• ✖ Shorter lifespan than other options.
• ✖ Marks and dents show sooner.

Hardwood (e.g. Oak, Balau, Garapa)

• Best for: Long-lasting, premium finish.
• Material cost: Around £37.

Feels solid underfoot and looks high-end. Heavier to work with, but it pays you back with years of use.

Pros

• ✔ Tough and wear-resistant.
• ✔ Weathers to an elegant silver.
• ✔ Less movement across seasons.

Cons

• ✖ Slower to install; pre-drilling needed.
• ✖ Higher upfront cost.
• ✖ Heavier subframe requirements.

Composite (WPC)

• Best for: Low-maintenance family spaces.
• Material cost: Around £72.

Colour stays steady and there are no splinters. A quick sweep and rinse is usually all it needs.

Pros

• ✔ No yearly staining needed.
• ✔ Neat hidden-fixing systems.
• ✔ Good slip resistance options.

Cons

• ✖ Budget boards can look plastic.
• ✖ Scratches are hard to disguise.
• ✖ Heavier; needs a solid frame.

PVC / Capped Composite

• Best for: Smart, modern decks that shrug off spills.
• Material cost: Around £25.

The outer cap resists stains and fading. Hose it down and it’s back to looking new.

Pros

• ✔ Excellent stain and fade resistance.
• ✔ Light, consistent boards.
• ✔ Very easy to wash down.

Cons

• ✖ Less natural texture.
• ✖ Can feel warm in strong sun.
• ✖ Trims and clips add to cost.

Planning and Installing Garden Decking

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.

Garden Decking Building Regulations & Planning Permission

As a rule, raised platforms over 30 cm need planning permission. Decking is usually permitted development if it’s under 30 cm high, doesn’t sit in front of the main elevation, and — taken together with other extensions/outbuildings — doesn’t cover more than 50% of the garden. Always double-check locally.

Keep the finished deck within 30 cm of ground level to stay inside permitted development, but confirm with your council if you’re in a conservation area or have a listed building.

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.

Planning permission is normally required for raised platforms over 30 cm. You may also need permission if, together with other extensions or outbuildings, more than 50% of the garden would be covered, or if the deck sits forward of the principal elevation.

If you need permission, there’s a standard householder application fee. If work goes ahead without the right consent, councils can issue enforcement notices — so check first and keep neighbours in the loop.

What Do Garden Decking Installations Involve?

Installing garden decking can be straightforward for those comfortable with DIY, but if your garden is sloped or it's your first DIY project, it can be tricky.

Get at least 3 quotes — MyJobQuote lets you grab free, no-pressure quotes nearby.

Before the Job Starts

• Plan and prep: Your installer will mark out the space. Next, they’ll check it falls away from the house and clear any turf or slabs. Finally, they’ll lay a weed membrane if it’s a low deck.
• Pick the build: Choose the boards (timber, composite, or PVC) and the supports — pads, ground screws, or pedestals. They’ll order joists, stainless fixings where needed, rails, and any lighting.

During the Job

• Subframe first: They’ll set the pads or footings, then build a level frame with the right joist centres. Next they’ll add noggins and keep timber lifted off the soil.
• Boards and edges: Time for laying the boards with tidy gaps (they’ll use clips for composite). Where needed, your installer will finish with fascia, steps, and rails.

After the Job

• Tidy up: Towards the end of the installation, they’ll remove offcuts and arrange waste or a skip if it isn’t included.
• Protect and check: Once timber has dried, they’ll oil or stain it. They’ll also test rails and steps and check that water falls away from the house.

Can I 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 material that suits your skills: pressure-treated softwood is easiest for most DIYers; composites/PVC need specific clips, spacing, and blades.
• 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.

Garden Decking Removal Cost

Removing your old garden decking will cost around £110 to £550 for 2 to 7 hours.

While this may seem expensive, it's worth it to ensure the job is done quickly and correctly.

Checklist: Hiring a Garden Decking Installer in the UK

Consider these key points before hiring an installer for this job.

• Can you show me 2–3 like-for-like written quotes? Scope, materials, waste, VAT, and start date should all be listed.
• Do they have public liability insurance? Find out who’s responsible for buried pipes and cables.
• Can I see recent work? Ask to take a look at before and after photos and 2 references from real customers.
• Have we agreed on the build details? Board type, joist centres, fixings, rails, steps, and ventilation under the deck.
• How will you treat cut ends and exposed timber? Ask them about the treatment of cut ends and what preservative they use.
• Is waste removal included? Determine whether they remove and get rid of old turf, soil, and offcuts.
• What’s the payment plan? Ideally, your installer will ask for a small deposit, then staged payments. You should never pay the full amount up front.
• How long will it take, and how about site access? What the timescale of the project will be, when they’ll be working, and what they’d do about parking and weather delays.
• What warranty and aftercare do you offer? They should provide you with a workmanship guarantee, product warranties, and who deals with any issues that may arise.