by Neil Stead, Business Consultant & Coach, Steady Consulting for Decking Network (Mar26) Most decking businesses start the same way. A skilled installer begins taking on projects independently. Good work leads to recommendations, enquiries increase and the diary quickly fills. At first, this feels like success. However, many installers eventually reach a point where the … Read more
A proud moment for decking excellence The APL Awards matter. They recognise genuine quality in UK landscaping. They reward skill, judgement, and craftsmanship on site. That is exactly why this result deserves proper applause. This year, the Decking Feature category brought together three strong finalists. Ellicar, Kingfisher Decking Ltd, and The London Decking Company each … Read more
The UK’s toughest decking competition APL Awards 2026 decking. In UK landscaping, the APL Awards carry serious weight, and the industry treats them as the big prize. They sit at the sharp end of professional standards, because they reward build quality, design intent, and lasting performance. The Association of Professional Landscapers do not simply celebrate … Read more
A homeowner’s checklist for a safer, stronger deck that looks right from day one A good deck should make your garden easier to use. It mustn’t include any of these 7 decking mistakes. It should feel solid underfoot, look crisp at the edges, and drain well after rain. However, I still see plenty of projects … Read more
January decking tips: a good time to think before you build The month of January is when decks are still built, and it is often the month when the best decks begin. January decking tips are best to consider when the garden quiet and the pace slower, it gives you the opportunity to step back … Read more
10 Decking Innovations Contractors need for 2026 UK decking news 2026 in the UK face smarter homeowners.Clients ask about comfort, realism, safety, and lifespan.This “INFOBURST” covers ten credible developments shaping 2026. Each item includes a contractor angle and a homeowner takeaway.Use it to refine your spec, upsell details, and shortlist installers. UK decking news 2026 … Read more
Trex RainEscape: maximising outdoor living space as part of a balcony deck build Homeowners on the Wirral Peninsula wanted to make the most of their picturesque surroundings by adding a first-floor Trex RainEscape balcony deck to their barn conversion. An important part of the brief was the ability to use the area beneath the balcony … Read more
Deckorators Excursion Oslo in London – a new benchmark for highbrow decks Decorators Decking in London for when you demand the best, most homeowners assume they must compromise the second time around.This London project proves the opposite. With Deckorators Excursion Oslo and design by Karl Harrison, the new deck is stronger, smarter and calmer to … Read more
By Karl Harrison – The UK Decking Guy in the hat Vegas, baby—DeckExpo edition DeckExpo Las Vegas was loud, bright and gloriously over-the-top—exactly what you want from the world’s biggest decking meet-up. Breakfasts were vast, dinners even vaster, and the portion control was—let’s say—spectacular. Everything about Vegas is a spectacle, only slightly larger than what … Read more
Industry Decking News at the largest landscaping event in the UK FutureScape Decking Hub delivered real value this year. Live demos. Honest Q&A. Practical methods you can use on your next job. If you missed it, you missed out. The Decking Hub: built for Professionals The Hub runs like a fast track, the talk and … Read more
DIY SOS decking ramp DIY SOS decking ramp solved a huge problem in their latest home transformation in Swansea, one particular feature stood out — a curved composite ramp, designed and built to give wheelchair access from the home to the garden. The project brought together Trex composite decking and the expertise of Paul Smythe, a … Read more
Autumn deck maintenance Steps Autumn Deck Maintenance: 10 Steps to Protect Your Garden Deck. — as summer slips into autumn, your boards collect dust, BBQ splashes and a crunchy quilt of leaves. Be patient, let the winds finish the drop, then pick a dry day for one last clean before winter. This good news friendly … Read more
The decking ban at a glance There’s no blanket UK ban on fake grass or other synthetic landscaping materials and certainly not a ban on composite decking. Some professional bodies urge caution or campaign against plastic grass. I support evidence-led, site-specific choices: permeable, nature-positive first; synthetics only where they solve a real problem and meet durability, drainage … Read more
A landmark moment for Yorkshire decking The UK has officially welcomed its first Deckorators Excursions decking UK installation. This stunning project was installed in Kirk Ella by Heritage Decking Ltd, a company already recognised for premium craftsmanship and forward-thinking outdoor design. The Excursions collection, known for its mineral-based composite technology, has made its debut in … Read more
The Decking Hub is back—and bigger at FutureScape 2025 After a standout debut in 2024, The Decking Hub returns to FutureScape 2025 in association with Decking Network. This year, Karl Harrison hosts live demonstrations with leading brands. The goal is clear: give you practical knowledge you can use on your next deck. You’ll get real … Read more
Millboard composite decking benefits: Why It Deserves Your Investment When choosing a new deck, the options can feel overwhelming. Homeowners compare timber, composites, and even aluminium. Installers look for products that deliver durability, style, and reliability. Understanding Millboard composite decking benefits is essential for both. This wood-free alternative offers far more than a stylish finish. It combines … Read more
Matthew Burgon decking professional in Sheffield Who are you, what do you do and where are you from I’m Matthew Burgon from Sheffield and I am a decking professional. I design and install high-spec garden decks with an obsession for structure, detail and finish. My ethos is simple: specify best-in-class materials, engineer the substructure correctly … Read more
The Changing Face of Decking in the UK On November 18, 2022, at the CITES Conference of the Parties, two of the most sought-after tropical hardwoods—Ipe and Cumaru—were officially added to CITES Appendix II. These species, once synonymous with “luxury decking,” are now recognised as endangered. Ipe and Cumaru on endangered list, you should remember … Read more
The Spiralling Cost of Decking: What Homeowners Need to Know Decking has always been a smart way to transform an outdoor space. But the cost of decking today is spiralling, leaving many homeowners wondering how much they really need to invest. Between labour, materials, and the realities of running a professional business, prices are higher … Read more
The Power of Visibility for your decking business Every decking company wants a constant source of enquiries. Without it, projects dry up and profit suffers. With it, your schedule stays full, and your reputation grows. Decking Network gives professionals the visibility they need to attract homeowners who are ready to invest in beautiful outdoor living. Search … Read more
What’s the best decking surface Smooth decking vs grooved decking is “The” most common question when choosing the right deck surface for your garden. Grooved, ribbed or smooth decking? All styles have their champions, but they serve very different purposes. Let’s explore the differences, advantages, and drawbacks. We’ll look at slip resistance, aesthetics, maintenance, installation, … Read more
How Pro Landscaper Magazine Values Decking in Modern Garden Design Pro Landscaper decking trends is leading the industry. It’s the leading magazine which has decking featured in every issue*. Decking has never left the spotlight. It’s evolved, diversified, and outlasted trends. One place is the independent source of decking projects is Pro Landscaper Magazine. “It’s … Read more
Why Karl Harrison chooses this luxury decking Some surfaces simply belong in beautiful places. Just as a Louboutin heel tells you something about the wearer, this deck reveals the taste of the homeowner. Lets refine your outdoor living. Crafted with the precision of Chanel tailoring and the quiet power of Armani Casa, this composite decking … Read more
Transform outdoor decking with Outdure’s Aluminium Framing SystemOne frame. Multiple finishes—support for decking, tiles, turf, and more. Every great outdoor space begins with a solid foundation, Outdure’s aluminium framing system is it. Whether you’re a trade professional or tackling a DIY build, durability matters. That’s why F.H.Brundle is proud to offer Outdure® QwickBuild®—an award-winning aluminium … Read more
How to design a show-stopping outdoor living space Creating a garden deck is no longer about functionality alone. For the discerning homeowner, it’s a canvas for lifestyle, elegance, and expression. With the right materials and vision, your outdoor space can rival the interior of a luxury penthouse. Luxury garden deck ideas for elegant outdoor living … Read more
The true value behind the price of decking When you receive a quote for decking installation, it may seem high at first glance. However, it reflects the unseen complexity involved. From the first site survey to the final screw, experienced installers bring structure, compliance, and beauty to your outdoor space. Every plan must align with … Read more
Making the Right Choice for Your Garden Choosing between decking and paving can be tricky. Both bring unique style and practical benefits to outdoor spaces. Whether you’re upgrading your garden or planning a new layout, it pays to know the key differences. Let’s dive into the battle of the backyard: Decking vs. Paving what would … Read more
Celebrating Excellence at the 2025 APL Awards “Decking Feature Award” The Decking Network was proud to sponsor the prestigious “Decking Feature Award” at the 2025 Association of Professional Landscapers Awards. Widely regarded as the toughest decking accolade to achieve in the industry. This award represents the pinnacle of skill, design, and craftsmanship in the landscaping … Read more
Millboard decking with patterned boards called Modello The world of decking has been elevated to level of design never seen before. The ultimate in creativity with luxurious patterns which allow the designer to create sophisticated and elegant decking layouts. Introducing Modello by Millboard, a revolutionary decking board set apart from all other decking. This is … Read more
How the Pantone of the Year 2025 Complements Composite Decking Trends The Pantone Colour of the Year 2025 has arrived, and it’s everything you need to elevate your outdoor space. The chosen hue is a warm, grounding brown with subtle undertones of clay and taupe are the epitome of sophistication and natural beauty. These tones … Read more
Elevate Your Outdoor Living with Bespoke Millboard Decking Transform your garden into the most stylish outdoor sanctuary with Millboard decking, the pinnacle of luxury and sophistication. Designed for discerning homeowners who demand nothing but the best. Millboard combines timeless elegance with unrivalled durability to create a space that seamlessly blends beauty and function. You could … Read more
Composite DeckPro builds in Westchester county Sophistication and style are presented to you with this beautiful decking terrace by the Deck Pro’ team at Deck and Fence Contracting Inc. Perfectly matched to the materials of the building make this an exquisitely designed decking platform. It showcases a balustrade and handrail that works with the deck … Read more
Decking design near me in Hertfordshire If you are looking for a Multi level deck in Hertfordshire, you may need to look no further. Association of Professional Landscapers qualified Garden designer Rose Stockley creates beautiful gardens with decking. Bang on trend for 2025, the Browns are the new greys. Multi-level Deck in Hertfordshire Five deck … Read more
Coastal hues to trend in outdoor living for 2025 Trex composite decking trends for 2025 are exemplified by the experts at Trex , the world’s number one composite decking brand. “coastal-inspired honey colours are likely to dominate outdoor living décor in 2025”.* Natural light honey hues top the list of the most popular decking samples … Read more
New landscaping resource launching on 29th November 2024 The Decking Network is excitedly awaiting the launch of a new online magazine aimed at everyone who has an interest in paving and hard landscaping. welcome the all new “Paving Site online Magazine”. The brainchild of landscape industry stalwarts Alan Sargent and Gareth Wilson, Paving Site promises … Read more
Grad Kebony decking in Churt, Surrey Kebony smooth decking stars in this sensational garden This family home, in an ‘Arts & Crafts’ style, sits in a beautiful wrap around plot in the Surrey countryside. The garden is a blank canvas and will be designed to cater entirely to the tastes of our clients. The garden … Read more
Professional hardwood decking in Bosham Cumaru hardwood decking beautifully designed and expertly constructed in Bosham, West Sussex. The results achieved by this professional landscaping company are outstanding. The style and finesse of this garden design is exemplified by the experts that have built it. Are you looking for a hardwood designer decking in Bosham, Sussex. … Read more
The best garden is one that in your eyes makes you feel great and looks amazing. The best garden in your opinion fits a complex set of your criteria which includes, colour, materials and usable space. I suspect that the aesthetics is highest on your list quickly followed by the maintenance it requires to look … Read more
Browns Landscapes design Trex decking Trex garden decking using Trex Enhance Naturals and Trex Transcend Tropicals for the borders and detail. A design that uses all of the space available for this beautiful composite decking terrace. The project is located in Longfield, Kent. A complete transformation from the overgrown bushes and outdated concrete walling had … Read more
Kebony Grad decking is a sustainable choice Kebony has been honoured for this prestigious decking project for One of London’s most historic and cultural buildings. The Royal Opera House in Covent Gardens now has the fourth flooring re-laid with Kebony Clear Grad® System decking. This is all about designing and installing sustainable decking for the … Read more
The new Trex Signature range of decking is set to be the leading standard in the UK Trex Signature sets new standard for outdoor living Leading composite decking brand Trex has launched Signature. It is a new premier collection now available through UK distribution partner Arbor Forest Products. This is to be come the staple … Read more
To regulate or not to regulate the way decking structures are built in the UK There are many different ways to construct a decking platform, too many decking options to choose from but how do we build them? Whether you choose traditional timber, HDPE or aluminium for your frame there is a standard within which … Read more
The annual Oscars for the landscaping industry The leading industry awards for the best gardens built by professionals are hosted this March in London and The Decking Network is proud to be the category sponsor for projects that are £65,000 to £80,000. We are delighted to see the competition set so high this year and … Read more
Decking installer in Arundel This company needs no introduction, with over 25 years in deck building at the highest level. Summoned by the UK’s leading garden designers to build their gardens which include decking terraces that push the boundaries. Whilst Garden House Design often build decks for other companies, they do offer a detailed decking … Read more
Swimming Pool Decking in Ascot A Contemporary and sleek looking mechanised pool cover made entirely from GRAD® System Decking in Ascot. An aluminium frame with Bamboo decking in a problem-solving situation for this private swimming pool. The decking design brief LDC was tasked with finding a solution that would enable them to build a deck … Read more
Decking installer in Dulwich, London A contemporary hardwood decking installation and built to last by local company “The Deck Dude”. Steeped in the local South London history of working in gardens in this area, Keri Bowker is a formidable decking installer. Hardwood decking ideas in Dulwich The Deck Dude has over 10 years in professional … Read more
Balustrade ideas for decking Are you searching for ideas for different styles of balustrade to match your decking. This is a simple list of 6 different types of balustrade. I know my favourite, which is yours? FH Brundle have everything in stock and usually delivery the next day. If you have a questions to contact … Read more
Trex composite decking design ideas near me If you are looking for decking design ideas you have found the right place. The Decking Network is here to inspire you when you ask if there are “composite decking ideas near me”. There are a variety of styles, textures, dimensions and colours to choose from. Most modern … Read more
Decking design Ideas for Hardwood decking The best ideas for your decking will come from the other elements of your garden, well parts of it anyway. Most hardwood decking terraces are to enhance the useability of your garden space. Whether you need more space for seating, relaxing or somewhere to BBQ. Hardwood decking can suit … Read more
The fastest decking to install in your garden “The fastest decking to install in your garden. The smoothest decking to walk over, the longest lasting decking there is…” and many other phrases banded out there. Is this a fair representation of the product, is this a true comparison? What is the fastest decking to install … Read more
FH Brundle is proud to be a brand ambassador for the Decking Network FH Brundle was established in 1889 and is still very much a family business. Now owned and run by Michael Brundle (fifth generation), it’s the UK’s largest supplier of handrailing and balustrades, with one of the most extensive ranges of aluminium fences, available … Read more
Slippery decks is a slippery subject Do you think slippery decks is a slippery subject? I do and here’s why. In my last 20 years I have seen a large proportion of timber decking products. They claim to do everything to prevent you from slipping but in actual fact do the opposite. How to make … Read more
Grad System UK joins the Decking Network We are thrilled to have become an Ambassador for The Decking Network. This online community of highly experienced individuals and enthusiasts is hugely active, well respected, and incredibly rich in content. Members are always keen to help others by sharing their knowledge and advice on ideas, installations, and … Read more
Decking Design and Installation Course Our Decking course will save you time and money, even for experienced contractors. If you’re keen to improve efficiency in your business and ensure you’re working to current British Standards, then this is the course for you. Materials, tools and regulations change all the time (not to mention current trends) … Read more
Composite decking installer in Hitchin 212 Solutions have been decking installers for 25 years, based in Hitchin in Hertfordshire. decking by name and decking by nature. This professional decking company is led by Richard Masters who specialises in domestic decking. An ambassador for Trex® composite decking and a Pro for other leading brands of composite … Read more
Trex decking installer Pinner Trex composite decking designed and built by the team at Karl Harrison Landscapes Ltd in Pinner. Karl is based in Amersham in Buckinghamshire and covers a wider area for decking design and build projects. Preparing for a new decking installation The client’s brief was to “simply” remove the existing decking platform … Read more
Decking Installer Jobs Amersham Karl Harrison Landscapes Ltd is a market leader in the Design and Professional Landscaping of domestic gardens We currently employ 8 people locally and due to our success, our company is growing. Based in Amersham in Buckinghamshire and operate no more than an hour’s drive from our base. We work in … Read more
Country Supplies decking to Beaconsfield Suppliers of Millboard Decking in Buckinghamshire stars Country Supplies again. Based in High Wycombe and supplying companies within a 60-mile radius for over 20 years. In this news update, Hatton Garden Landscapes were supplied for a landscaping project in Beaconsfield. Millboard decking to Beaconsfield The project featured a contemporary garden … Read more
Composite Prime decking supplier in Amersham Composite Prime are a manufacturer of composite decking and supply your projects in and surrounding Buckinghamshire. This project was part of a large landscaping scheme in Amersham. “Country Supplies are a Composite Prime decking supplier in Amersham” Who are JE Builders J.E Builders Ltd are family-owned building company with … Read more
Composite Prime decking Tetsworth Creative decking design by the team at Sunshade and Decking Ltd inspired by Carl Buckland who runs the company. Based near Thame in Oxfordshire and cover a wider area. Their client recently employed Carl and the team to design and build an extension to their raised paved terrace. Carl offered a … Read more
Country Supplies Becomes Brand Ambassador for the Decking Network We are really proud to have become a Brand Ambassador for the Decking Network. The Decking Network is an online community of decking professionals and enthusiasts who share a passion for outdoor living and the art of deck building. By becoming a member of this community, … Read more
Created as a UK first by the TASK Academy for the Landscaping industry. Decking design and construction training to Current British standards which include Euro Code 5 and in accordance with the best industry practice (BiP). Accredited and certified by LANTRA with endorsements by the Association of Professional Landscapers, it is a vital component to … Read more
Decking design and installation in Norwich Darren Gooch, decking by name and decking by nature. This chap is an absolute professional when it comes to designing and building decking structures for domestic gardens. Rated as one of the top professionals for Trex® composite decking and is certified as a “Platinum Pro Installer” So, who is … Read more
Acceptable limits of decking Introduction to decking limits The limitations of a decking board and the understanding of these limitations is vital to the success of the installation. The consideration here is to appreciate that there are various limits that sometimes get overlooked. What are the limitations of the decking board? What are the limitations … Read more
Do I need decking balustrade? Building Regulations say when a balustrade has to be fitted to your decking. It’s there for your safety as it prevents you from falling off when the decking platform is too high. Balustrades can also form handrails when walking up and down stepped elements of the deck or garden. When … Read more
The best way to build a deck using current regulations and guidelines To build a durable decking structure, you must ensure it’s constructed correctly from the start. By choosing the right materials and following industry-standard construction practices, you can be confident your deck will stand the test of time. The Association of Professional Landscapers has … Read more
Choose a professional decking installer Choosing a professional decking installer is vital to the success of your new deck and one that protects your investment. Professional decking installers are specialists in exactly that, they only concern themselves with decking. Some Landscaping companies specialise in decking design and installation too. You’ll see some manufacturers run professional … Read more
How to post an article on The Decking Network Have you got pictures of a decking project you’ve installed? Want thousands of possible clients to see them? Perfect, put them on The Decking Network and people will find your website. Here is a step by step guide on how to add your own work to … Read more
Garden decking can transform a space. It can add function, structure, and style to a garden. However, when it is designed badly or built poorly, it can also become the source of serious decking court disputes. Over the years, I have seen this pattern time and again. Since the mid 2000s, I have consulted on … Read more
IT is best to avoid a decking dispute. A decking dispute rarely begins on the day the argument starts. More often, it begins much earlier. It begins when assumptions replace detail, when price replaces planning, and when nobody writes down what is actually being built. That is the real problem. Too many garden decking projects … Read more
Are you planning a new deck and need the best information Why Decking Network Matters if you are planning a new deck, improving an old one, or trying to understand which materials and methods are right for your garden, good information matters. Too many homeowners still begin their search in the wrong place. They are … Read more
An article by the TDCA (Timber Decking and Cladding Association) Published 26th May 2025 Composite decking article response because of a blatantly biased report. A news worth report that underpins the current state of decking representation in the UK. It is presented by an organisation exclusively focused on, and funded by, the timber industry. Nothing … Read more
What are you framing your deck with? In decking, some phrases get used far too casually. “Pressure treated.” “Suitable for outside.” “UC4 timber for framing”, “It will be fine.” Those words sound reassuring. However, they often hide a lack of detail. Many installers still buy structural timber on trust alone. That is where problems start. … Read more
A Utah decking company worth putting in the spotlight Some decking companies wait to be noticed. Others step forward and earn attention. This month, we are pleased to welcome SAGE Decks to the Decking Network as our Decking Company of the Month. It is a strong addition to the platform, and it is easy to see why. SAGE … Read more