FAQ

Q. Where can I site my deck?

A. Timber decks are very flexible in positioning in your garden, you can locate them wherever it suits you best, and taking into account that you will want to maximise the amount of sunshine which falls onto it (and you!) you can the site the deck for the most daily sunshine or even choose a partly shaded spot. Have it as a veranda style, or build it around a flower bed. Lots of options.

But to get the most from your deck consider these factors:

you will want shelter from wind
do you want privacy from neighbours? (e.g. add a nice panel fence section)
can I see and hear children playing on it - decks make excellent clean floors for play areas?

Decks can rejuvenate these areas:

unusable or uncultivated ground
steeply sloping ground
drainage areas or waterlogged land

Whether used for relaxing, entertainment, dining or as a play space, decking provides a superbly versatile extension to your home.

Q. Any implications with Planning or Building Regulations?

A.As a rule no planning permission is required unless you are in a Conservation Area or your property is Listed. We advise on all related issues, including the unlikely need for planning consents when we survey your property for a quotation. Construction details are always to the latest building regulation standards, in fact we prefer to lean towards slightly over-specifying materials if there is any doubt about a particularly challenging site.

Q. How long will my deck last?

A. Timber decks are highly durable. That's because either naturally durable hard woods or pressure treated softwoods are used for their construction. Having said that the softwood option is the most popular choice especially from the cost point of view. Modern preservative treatments, principally Tanalised (a major preservative brand, widely used) can offer a warranty lifetime of 15 years. While it does not depend on further preservation methods to achieve this long life, weathering over the years does change the colour of wood to a soft gray, and stains and colours are useful to maintain a fresh reviving look to the wood and can be used to match the house colours if desired.

Q.Can I personalise my deck?

A. Yes, easily. Use coloured stains and preservative paints to produce 1,2 or multi-coloured patterns on the deck, balustrades and railings. Adding pergolas, arches, steps etc. can make your deck even more unique in a very short time. You can change details or add structures to the deck at any time in the future with little trouble. Maybe a new level or a built-in water feature?

As well as balustrades and railings we can also add 1.8 metre high wooden slatted fence sections which are ideal as 'privacy screens' You may not have nosey neighbours but it may make you feel more comfortable if passing cars do not have to see you in your dressing gown over breakfast on the deck!

Q.Aren't decks slippery in the wet?
A. Timber can become slippery when wet if it is not maintained, but generally it is not a problem, especially if you follow the recommendations-

We recommend:

fitting decking planks with the deepest grooves on the surface, rather than smooth or lightly grooved surfaces, for better grip in the wet
occasional gentle cleaning with a pressure washer or yard brush ( see maintenance below ) You can buy a proprietory liquid deck cleaner too.
a gentle gradient on the deck surface ensures adequate run-off of water, and decking planks will dry out quickly in the wind

Q. What sort of maintenance will my timber deck need?

A. A simple regime of cleaning will enhance the long term appearance and durability of your deck. Twice a year (gentle) pressure washing will deep clean the surface and regular brushing with a stiff yard broom helps in-between times. This discourages any attempt of algae to grow in the grooves.

Unless they are coated with after-market preservatives all timber decks will gradually fade to a gray colour, and small splits are likely to appear on the surface of the boards. These are a response to intermittant wetting and drying of the timber and will have no structural bearing whatsoever. Regular application (as specified by the manufacturer, so probably only every few years) of surface deck preservative 'paints' will reduce the uptake of moisture and consequent swelling and shrinkage.

Q. How much is a deck going to cost me?

A. Prices can vary enormously depending on size and complexity. Compared to other popular modern home improvements such as a conservatory or new kitchen decking invariably offers excellent value for money. A small deck is perhaps a few hundred pounds, but you can budget from there. Remember that adding to existing decking is easy to do in the future. The most important thing we that like to impress is that even the smallest area of decking will change your expectations and use of your garden more than you can ever imagine!

Q. Can I have outdoor lights, B.B.Q's, and water features on or near my deck?
A. Yes you can. You can use Gas BBQ's, fit a proper waterproof outdoor lighting system - even a built-in small pond or water feature is perfectly possible with a bit of planning from the structural point of view.

Q. Who can provide annual maintenance services if we want them?
A. We can - just ask for our rates.