The Spiralling Cost of Decking: What Homeowners Need to Know
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 than ever. The key is understanding why—and how to make the most of your budget.
Why Professional Decking Costs More Than You Think
Many homeowners look only at wages when judging cost. The average employed person in the UK earns around £37,430 per year. For a self-employed decking professional to match that, they need to charge a minimum of £240 per day plus VAT.
That figure doesn’t include essential business costs. A decking installer must also run a van, maintain a website, advertise, pay accountants, and cover insurances. This will cost in the region of £80 to £90 per day. All of these are critical to running a legitimate, safe, and professional business. This mens a total cost of at least £320 plus vat per man day.
When you hire a decking contractor, you are not just paying for labour. You are investing in experience, security, and the reassurance that your decking will be built correctly the first time.
Do you mind if they make a profit? What do you think is an acceptable margin? 20%, 30% or more? These low margins are a fraction of most everyday items that you currently purchase in the high street.
Now consider if a company employs their staff, their costs rise immeasurably. They have to pay their staff for Holidys, pension contribution, tax and national insurance too. All of this costs more than you can imagine, which means in real terms in order to make a profit its verging on the impossible…
The Rising Cost of Materials
If labour isn’t challenging enough (the act of working, not that wretched government), material costs are rising too. Budget decking options often fail early, leading to expensive repairs and even court cases.
High-end options are impressive but come at a steep price. Some of these materials cost more than £230 per m² plus VAT—before fixings, subframes, or professional installation.
When you combine them with a modern aluminium subframe system, total costs can exceed £550 per m² plus VAT. For the average 30 m² garden deck, that means £20,000 or more before adding steps, balustrade, or lighting. Curved decking platforms can push the cost up by another 40% or more.
Why Deckorators Excursion Offers Value for Money
Not all premium decking has to break the bank. Deckorators Excursion, a mineral-based composite board from the USA, is an exciting alternative.
It offers:
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Superior durability compared to timber.
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Better stability than traditional composites.
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A long lifespan without the extreme price tag of some premium brands.
For homeowners seeking value and performance, Deckorators bridges the gap between affordable and elite decking solutions.
What’s Wrong with a Smooth Pine Deck?
Smooth pine decking is often overlooked, but it has its place. It’s affordable, familiar, and can look fantastic when installed with care. Unlike grooved pine, smooth decking is easier to clean and less slippery when maintained properly.
By using pine joists on their sides, twice as thick and treated to UC4 standards, you can create a structure that lasts far longer than many assume. It’s the same price as branded pine decking but with greatly improved longevity.
Smarter Choices for Homeowners
Decking is an investment, not just a purchase. The cheapest option rarely proves cost-effective in the long run, while the most expensive option isn’t always necessary.
By combining thoughtful design, reliable materials, and professional installation, homeowners can strike the balance between cost and quality. Whether that means investing in mineral boards like Deckorators, considering premium composite systems, or rethinking how pine is used, the goal is the same: a deck that lasts, looks beautiful, and adds joy to your home.
Ask the Decking Network for advice
The cost of decking may be spiralling, but the right knowledge helps you make the right choices. Understand why professionals charge what they do. Accept that premium materials come with premium costs. And be open to smart alternatives that bring style, longevity, and value into your garden.
Decking should be more than a platform—it should be a space that lasts, enhances your home, and gives back every day.
Ask the Decking network for the very best advice here advice@deckingnetwork.com
