Decking Network | Steve Vickery | Friends Activity

Decking Network wrote a new post

Thu, 20 Aug 2026 21:58:20 +0000

Millboard Advanced Installers: Who Has Earned the Third Stripe? Millboard has recently introduced a new Advanced Installer tier, which sits above its long-established Approved Installer scheme and, at the time of writing, includes just ten installers. First of all, congratulations to them. This is news worthy and should be shouted across all channels… Millboard is a clever brand, it understands presentation extremely well, and this latest development is another good example of how effectively it communicates status without needing to explain too much. The existing Approved Installer badge is green and carries two chevrons, while the new Advanced Installer badge turns gold and adds a third. There is something wonderfully military about it. Those of us still carrying two stripes appear to be the Corporals, while the chosen ten have been promoted to Sergeant, although I am not yet aware of any requirement to salute them when they arrive on site. Humour aside, there is a serious and genuinely interesting question behind the new scheme, because once a manufacturer creates a visible hierarchy between installers, everyone quite reasonably wants to understand what that hierarchy actually represents. In simple terms, what does an installer have to demonstrate to earn that third stripe? Approved and Advanced are clearly different Millboard has not replaced its existing Approved Installer scheme. The Approved network remains very much in operation and continues to represent installers who have received product-specific training and who are listed by Millboard as contractors familiar with the correct installation of its products. The Advanced Installer designation sits above that. Millboard describes an Advanced Installer as a professional who has been assessed against standards covering product knowledge, installation quality and compliance with Millboard installation guidance and best-practice requirements. That is a positive development. For many years I have argued that the decking industry needs to place far more emphasis on installation quality and technical competence, because even the finest decking board in the world will not compensate for a poorly designed or badly constructed structure underneath it. The new designation also appears to carry enhanced warranty benefits in certain applications, so this is not simply a change of colour and another stripe on the badge. Millboard is clearly trying to create something with additional value for both installer and customer. That should be welcomed. Congratulations to the first ten The ten contractors who have achieved Advanced Installer status deserve recognition. If those businesses have undertaken additional training, demonstrated high standards of workmanship and satisfied further assessment criteria, then there is nothing wrong with celebrating that achievement. In fact, the industry needs more of it. Decking has changed enormously over the last twenty years. What was once often treated as a relatively simple timber platform at the bottom of the garden can now involve complex substructures, raised levels, integrated steps, balustrades, lighting, outdoor kitchens, spas, architectural detailing and substantial interaction with the surrounding landscape. As projects become more sophisticated, the knowledge expected of the installer has to move with them. Knowing how to install a particular manufacturer’s decking board is certainly important, but that is only one part of building a good deck. What about the existing Approved Installers? This is perhaps where Millboard’s new scheme becomes most interesting. If an installer has worked with Millboard for many years, attended training, installed the product successfully and represented the brand well, it is perfectly reasonable for them to ask why they remain on two stripes while somebody else has moved to three. That is not criticism of the ten who have been promoted. It is simply what happens when any organisation introduces a higher rank. People naturally want to know what the promotion criteria are. Is Advanced status determined by the number of Millboard projects completed, the volume of product purchased, years of experience, customer satisfaction, site inspections, technical assessment or a combination of all those things? Perhaps it should be a combination. Whatever the answer, I believe the pathway should be reasonably transparent, because the badge itself sends a very clear message to the homeowner. An Advanced Installer appears, quite deliberately, to have achieved a higher level of endorsement from Millboard than an Approved Installer. That means the distinction has to be meaningful. Installing the board is only part of the job This is where I think the discussion should go beyond Millboard and become an industry question. A decking manufacturer will naturally concentrate on its own product. It needs installers to understand board spacing, support centres, fixing positions, movement, edging, ventilation and all the other details that can affect product performance. Quite right too. However, the homeowner is not buying a collection of correctly installed boards. They are buying a completed deck. That deck is a structure. Underneath the Millboard, Trex, timber or any other surface material there may be foundations, posts, beams, joists, connections, fixings, steps, guarding and interfaces with buildings, all of which have to work properly if the deck is going to perform safely and last for a reasonable period of time. This is where the phrase Advanced Installer becomes particularly interesting to me. If somebody is being publicly identified as having an advanced level of decking competence, should that competence stop at the manufacturer’s installation manual? I do not think it should. Should Eurocode 5 and recognised standards form part of the scheme? For timber structures, recognised structural design principles inevitably lead us towards Eurocode 5, BS EN 1995-1-1, together with the wider standards and guidance relevant to the particular project. I am not suggesting that every small domestic deck needs an engineer sitting beside it with a calculator and a copy of Eurocode 5. That would be ridiculous. However, I do believe that somebody presented to the public as an Advanced Decking Installer should understand the principles behind structural loading, spans, support conditions, connections, durability, moisture management and appropriate materials. They should also recognise when a project has moved beyond straightforward domestic construction and requires structural engineering input. In many ways, that last point is one of the clearest signs of genuine competence. An experienced professional does not need to know absolutely everything, but they should know when they are approaching the boundary of their own knowledge. Product knowledge is not the same as construction knowledge There is an important distinction here which the decking industry sometimes overlooks. A contractor can become extremely knowledgeable about a particular manufacturer’s product while still having weaknesses in structural design or general construction. Equally, a highly competent carpenter or structural contractor may understand timber engineering very well but still need product-specific training before installing a composite decking system correctly. Those two forms of knowledge should not compete with one another. They should work together. If an Advanced Installer scheme can bring together excellent product knowledge, sound construction practice, recognised technical standards and consistently high workmanship, then it could become something genuinely valuable. It would also give homeowners a much clearer indication of what they are actually getting when they select an installer carrying the higher badge. The third stripe should mean something Millboard deserves credit for putting installer competence, workmanship and better-built decking firmly back at the heart of the conversation. The branding is clever, the hierarchy is immediately understandable and the idea of recognising installers who have demonstrated a higher level of competence is entirely sensible. The first ten Advanced Installers should also enjoy their promotion. The Sergeants have arrived. For the rest of the Approved Installer battalion, however, the obvious question remains: What do we need to demonstrate to earn our third stripe? I think Millboard should make that pathway clear, not because installers need another badge for the van, but because transparency gives accreditation meaning. If Advanced Installer status ultimately represents demonstrable product knowledge, inspected workmanship, technical understanding, good customer outcomes and an appreciation of recognised construction standards, then it could become a very worthwhile benchmark for the industry. More manufacturers may well follow. That would be no bad thing. For me, though, the test is quite simplRead more

Decking Network wrote a new post

Sun, 09 Aug 2026 18:52:08 +0000

Millboard Deck Replacement in Vaucluse, Sydney Replacing an established deck can involve far more than removing old boards and installing new ones. That becomes especially true when the property has difficult ground conditions, several levels and complicated access.”Deck builder Vaucluse”, the perfect phrase for every homeowner. This substantial home in Vaucluse, within Sydney’s Eastern Suburbs, presented exactly that type of challenge. The homeowners asked The Decksmith to replace the existing deck and improve how the garden connected with the house. The work also included new seating beside the pool, a shower area and extensive changes to the stairs. Greg and his team also incorporated lighting and replaced the front bin bay as part of the project. Greg is the perfect decking team as he builds every project personally, with no subcontractors. Although the broad brief involved replacing the existing deck, the site required much more thought than a simple like-for-like rebuild. Sandstone sat close beneath the surface, while poor drainage kept several areas consistently damp. The property also contained numerous deck levels, changes of direction and long sections of stair construction. In addition, persistent rain made an already demanding build considerably more challenging. For Greg Weinbren of The Decksmith, the solution began below the surface rather than with the decking board itself. A Vaucluse deck designed around the site Homeowners often begin a decking project by deciding which material they would like to see beneath their feet. Colour and appearance clearly matter, although a professional deck builder should begin with the structure below. At this Vaucluse property, the shallow sandstone shelf restricted the available space beneath parts of the deck. Poor drainage also meant that some sections would remain exposed to damp conditions for long periods. Greg therefore needed a framing system that suited the site rather than relying on a standard timber solution. He used aluminium bearers in the more vulnerable areas and combined them with Lowdeck H4 ground-contact-rated framing. This approach provided a durable structural solution where ordinary timber bearers could have faced an increased risk of deterioration. The decision illustrates an important principle for anyone considering a new deck. A premium decking board can only perform properly when the supporting structure beneath it has been designed appropriately. Spending heavily on the visible surface makes little sense if moisture can compromise the structure supporting it. For that reason, experienced deck builders consider drainage, ventilation, ground clearance and structural durability before choosing the final construction method. Why The Decksmith chose Millboard decking The homeowners chose Millboard composite decking for the finished surface throughout the project. Millboard offers the visual character of timber without many of the maintenance demands associated with conventional timber decking. Its moulded surface also creates variation across the boards, which helps avoid the uniform appearance found with some composite products. For this Vaucluse garden, the darker Millboard finish works particularly well with the architecture and surrounding planting. The established bamboo creates a strong backdrop, while the decking sits comfortably against the dark exterior of the house. The material also allowed Greg to continue the same visual language across several different elements. He used the decking through the main terraces, stairs, seating areas and other detailed sections of the project. Consequently, the finished garden feels connected despite the considerable number of levels and changes in direction. However, choosing Millboard does not remove the need for careful installation. Premium composite decking has its own installation requirements, structural considerations and fixing methods. A contractor therefore needs to understand the system rather than treating every composite board as though it behaves in the same way. The Decksmith regularly works with Millboard across Sydney’s Eastern Suburbs, giving Greg practical experience of both the product and its installation requirements. Replacing a complicated multi-level deck The geometry of this project makes it particularly interesting. This was never going to become a simple rectangular platform running along the back of the house. Instead, the garden contains numerous levels which must connect the property with the lawn and swimming pool below. The existing arrangement also included extensive stairs. Greg reconsidered these as part of the replacement project, rather than simply copying what had existed before. The revised layout improved movement through the garden while bringing the stair arrangement up to the required standard. The broad central steps now create a much stronger connection between the house and lower garden. Other staircases deal with the larger changes of level along the side of the property. Together, they allow people to move through what could otherwise have become a complicated series of disconnected platforms. This is where good deck design becomes particularly important. Stairs should not look like an inconvenient addition attached after somebody has designed the main platform. Instead, their width, direction and proportions should contribute to the appearance of the whole garden. At Vaucluse, the stair construction forms an important part of the overall design. Building around angles and changes of direction Decking becomes considerably more demanding when a project contains several angles, levels and junctions. Every change of direction creates another detail that the installer must resolve carefully. Board alignment, edges, fascia details and transitions all become more noticeable once the geometry becomes complicated. This project contains plenty of those conditions. Greg had to connect broad deck areas with narrower passages, steps, seating and the existing stair structure. He also needed to maintain a coherent finish as the decking moved around the house. The completed project shows why careful setting out matters. The board lines sit comfortably within each section, while the borders give definition to the changes in shape. Those details help a complicated deck appear deliberate rather than busy. For homeowners, this distinction can make a considerable difference to the finished result. A deck may contain excellent materials, yet still look disappointing when the installer has not considered board direction and finishing details. Careful planning therefore remains essential, particularly on complex residential projects. Integrated poolside seating The brief also included new seating beside the swimming pool. Rather than relying entirely on freestanding furniture, Greg incorporated permanent seating into the deck construction. This allowed him to use some of the level changes while continuing the same Millboard finish. Built-in seating can work extremely well in gardens with awkward boundaries or changes in height. However, it requires careful detailing because the material moves from a horizontal surface onto vertical faces and edges. Poorly considered junctions quickly become obvious in these areas. At Vaucluse, the seating feels like part of the deck rather than an addition placed beside it. That continuity helps the different parts of the garden work together, while also creating a practical place to sit beside the pool. Lighting incorporated into the deck Greg also incorporated strip lighting into the finished scheme. Lighting is particularly valuable in gardens with numerous stairs because it can help define changes in level after dark. Nevertheless, it should also complement the architecture rather than dominate the garden. Subtle lighting along steps can achieve both objectives. It improves orientation around the deck while adding another layer to the garden during the evening. Planning the lighting during construction also allows the installer to conceal cabling and fittings more effectively. Retrofitting lighting after completion rarely produces the same clean result. For that reason, homeowners planning a new deck should discuss lighting before construction begins, even when they remain unsure about the final specification. Difficult ground requires a different approach Vaucluse contains some spectacular residential properties, although the local terrain can present significant construction challenges. Sandstone, sloping gardens, established planting and restricted access can all influence the way a deck should be built. Damp areas and limited ground clearance can create further problems for the supporting structure. The conditions at this property influenced several important decisions. Greg explained: “Standard timber bearers would have been at high risk of early rot given the rock and damp. We used aluminium bearers with Lowdeck H4 ground-contact rated framing, topped with Millboard composite decking.” That decision tells us far more about the quality of the project than the surface material alone. The Decksmith did not simply reproduce the previous structure with newer materials. Greg considered the conditions beneath the deck and adjusted the construction accordingly. That is exactly what a design-and-construct approach should achieve. Deck replacement provides an opportunity to improve the garden When an existing deck reaches the end of its useful life, homeowners often assume that replacement means building the same thing again. Sometimes that remains the most sensible option. However, removing an old structure also creates an opportunity to address problems that may have existed for many years. Stairs might work poorly, awkward spaces may serve no useful purpose, or the framing could be unsuitable for the site. A replacement project therefore deserves some design consideration before construction begins. At this Vaucluse property, Greg kept the broad relationship between the house and garden while improving several important details. He reconsidered the stairs, incorporated seating and added lighting while developing a more durable supporting structure. Those changes did not require an entirely different garden design. Instead, they allowed the replacement deck to work better than the structure it replaced. Planning a New Deck in Sydney’s Eastern Suburbs? If you live in Vaucluse, Rose Bay, Dover Heights, Bondi, Bronte, Coogee, Randwick, Maroubra or the surrounding Eastern Suburbs, speak directly with Greg at The Decksmith about your project. CALL Greg direct on 0468 486 290 Whether you are replacing an existing deck or planning a completely new outdoor space, Greg can discuss the site, the most appropriate construction method and the decking materials best suited to your home. Email The Decksmith About Your Deck Specialist deck design, replacement and construction across Sydney’s Eastern Suburbs. Testimonials, 5 star reviews and Feedback for Millboard decking installer Vaucluse The homeowner, Uri Ferster, subsequently left The Decksmith a five-star review. “Greg from The Decksmith just spent a few weeks at my house in Vaucluse building this amazing deck and seat out of Millboard Composite. I’ve always had real timber in the past. The Millboard looks fantastic.” He also highlighted the difficulty of the construction: “Greg did a 1st class job building the decking. It required new footings and structure, has multiple deck levels and angles, access to the backyard has many stairs and there was consistent rain.” His conclusion was equally clear: “The finished product is tremendous. I can thoroughly recommend Greg for any decking job.” That testimonial carries particular weight because it refers directly to the difficulties Greg had to overcome during construction. The project involved considerably more than laying decking boards across a straightforward frame. Are you searching for a Millboard deck builder in Vaucluse Then your search is complete as The Decksmith is going to be a sensible choice when choosing a professional decking builder that uses Millboard decking in this area. Your Millboard deck builder in Vaucluse is here Choosing a deck builder in Vaucluse Homeowners planning a new deck in Vaucluse should look beyond photographs of finished boards when choosing a contractor. The visible decking remains important, but the design and structure beneath it matter just as much. A professional deck builder should understand how the proposed deck relates to the house, garden and surrounding ground conditions. They should also consider drainage, moisture, framing, stairs, access and the requirements of the chosen decking system. Complex sites require even greater attention. A steep garden, exposed sandstone or limited clearance can change the way a contractor should approach the structure. Established planting and swimming pools can create further design and construction constraints. For this reason, local experience and specialist decking knowledge can make a genuine difference. Greg Weinbren owns and operates The Decksmith, specialising in decking and outdoor structures throughout Sydney’s Eastern Suburbs. He personally leads the projects his company undertakes, including detailed design-and-construct work such as this Vaucluse deck. That involvement gives homeowners direct access to the person responsible for resolving the project on site. Planning a new deck in Sydney’s Eastern Suburbs? If you are considering a new deck or replacing an existing one, the Vaucluse project demonstrates what careful planning can achieve. The best result rarely comes from choosing a decking board in isolation. The structure, ground conditions, stairs, drainage and detailing all need to work together. Material choice then becomes part of a complete construction system rather than a decorative decision. At Vaucluse, The Decksmith combined aluminium bearers, Lowdeck H4 framing and Millboard decking to address challenging ground conditions. Greg then integrated the stairs, seating and lighting into one coherent design. The finished garden now connects the house, deck and pool area far more successfully. For homeowners in Vaucluse, Rose Bay, Dover Heights, Bondi, Bronte, Coogee, Randwick, Maroubra and surrounding Eastern Suburbs, The Decksmith provides specialist deck design, replacement and construction services. If your existing deck needs replacing, or you are considering a completely new outdoor space, speaking with an experienced deck builder at the beginning can prevent expensive compromises later. A well-designed deck should do considerably more than provide somewhere to place a table and chairs. It should suit the property, respond to its environment and become anRead more

Decking Network wrote a new post

Sat, 25 Jul 2026 15:08:30 +0000

From Rotten Timber to a 90 m² Deckorators Excursion Deck A homeowner asks a simple question: “Can you replace just the rotten elements?” It sounds reasonable. However, sometimes a few rotten boards are only the visible part of a much larger failure. That was the starting point for this substantial Deckorators Excursion deck in Capel-le-Ferne, Kent. The existing timber deck had reached the end of its natural life. Its boards were damaged, its structure was deteriorating and its balustrade had become dangerously loose. What followed was not a quick repair. It became a complete 90 m² reconstruction, designed and built by Karl Harrison Landscapes. We spoke to decking specialist Karl Harrison about the project, the true scale of the work and why the homeowners chose Deckorators Excursion within seconds of seeing the samples. “Can You Replace Only the Rotten Parts?” The Decking Network: What did the homeowners originally ask you to do? Karl Harrison: Their first question was, “Can you replace just the rotten elements?” That is a perfectly understandable question. Most homeowners hope that a few boards or parts of the frame can be replaced without disturbing everything else. However, after a brief inspection, it became clear that the entire deck had reached the end of its useful life. The balustrade was very loose. The decking boards were damaged, rotten and unsafe. More importantly, the supporting structure was in poor condition. Replacing isolated pieces would not have solved the underlying problem. The Decking Network: So a local repair was never a realistic option? Karl: No. It might have improved the appearance temporarily, but it would not have created a safe or durable deck. You cannot responsibly attach new materials to an exhausted structure and pretend the problem has been resolved. Sometimes the cheapest-looking repair becomes the most expensive decision because the homeowner pays twice. The Cost of Replacing a 90 m² Deck The Decking Network: How did the homeowners react when you explained that the whole deck needed to be replaced? Karl: They were understandably shocked by the likely cost. The deck covered approximately 90 m². That area alone attracts a substantial price. Then you must include demolition, disposal, design, structural reconstruction, decking, balustrading and lighting. The total was far more than they had originally expected. However, that is a common story with decks of this size. Homeowners often see the surface area but do not immediately appreciate the amount of structure beneath it. The Decking Network: Were they also relieved to receive a clear answer? Karl: Yes. They had researched the project and concluded that Karl Harrison would give them the best advice. The homeowners wanted honest, transparent information, real costs and a real solution. They did not want an artificially low quotation that ignored the problems simply to secure the job. That honesty matters, even when the answer costs more than the client first hoped. Improving the Deck Without Redesigning It for the Sake of It The Decking Network: Did you redesign the entire layout? Karl: We retained most of the original footprint because the existing arrangement worked well with the property. There were only minor changes, but they improved how the deck functioned. We incorporated a clearer lounge area and created greater separation between the lounge and dining spaces. The central steps remained in their original position. Good design does not always require dramatic change. Sometimes the correct decision is to preserve what works and refine what does not. The Decking Network: So this was more than a like-for-like replacement? Karl: Absolutely. The clients wanted the new deck to be safe, durable and easier to maintain. They also wanted the investment to produce a visibly better outdoor space. There would have been little value in rebuilding the failed deck exactly as it had been. Why the Clients Chose Deckorators Excursion The Decking Network: Why did you introduce the homeowners to Deckorators Excursion? Karl: It offered the complete package required for this project. The appearance was important, but so were dimensional stability, grip, durability, low maintenance and comfort underfoot. The clients looked at samples of Deckorators Excursion alongside several other well-known decking brands. “They chose Excursion within seconds” The Decking Network: What caused such an immediate reaction? Karl: First, it was the colour. Second, they liked that the boards did not have the repetitive, artificial appearance seen in many composite products. Third, it was the texture. It felt comfortable under hand and under bare feet. A board covering 90 m² will dominate the appearance of the whole project. Therefore, the surface must work with the house rather than look like a large plastic platform attached to it. Why Bali Was the Right Colour The Decking Network: Which colour did the clients select? Karl: They chose Deckorators Excursion in Bali. They wanted a warm earth tone that worked with the architecture of the property. Bali is a rich mid-brown, so it created the warmth they were looking for. They also considered the lighter Tahiti colour. However, they have greyhounds, and they felt the darker brown would be more practical for a deck used regularly by large dogs. The Decking Network: Was it simply their favourite sample? Karl: No. A decking colour should not be selected in isolation. It must work with the building, the balustrade, the garden, the available light and the way the area will be used. Bali gave the deck a natural warmth while providing a strong contrast with the black balustrading. A Modern Balustrade Without Blocking the View The Decking Network: Why did you specify the Fortitude balustrade system? Karl: The Fortitude system by FH Brundle represented exceptional value. It is a clever choice for modern decking applications because it provides a clean, contemporary finish without becoming visually heavy. It also allowed the homeowners to retain an unrestricted view of the garden. The Decking Network: Did it work well with the Deckorators boards? Karl: Very well. The slim black components provide a crisp contrast against the warm Bali decking. More importantly, the balustrade feels secure and substantial. That was essential because the original balustrade had become very loose. A balustrade is not simply a decorative frame around a deck. It is a safety-critical element. What Was Built Beneath the Deckorators Excursion Boards? The Decking Network: Most people will focus on the finished boards. What was happening underneath? Karl: The support posts were 100 mm by 100 mm recycled HDPE plastic. They are durable and completely resistant to rot. That made them a sensible choice for a deck designed to last. The beams and joists were sized using Eurocode 5 span guidance. The structural connections followed the same engineering principles. There was also plenty of airflow beneath the deck, and water was free to drain away. The Decking Network: Was the coastal location a consideration? Karl: The property is approximately half a mile from the coast. However, we would have used stainless-steel fixings regardless. We also used decking tape to protect the upper faces of the timber structure. Coastal exposure reinforces the need for appropriate materials, but corrosion-resistant fixings and moisture protection should already form part of good decking practice. Designed for Today and Built for Tomorrow The Decking Network: Which detail are you most proud of? Karl: I am pleased with every attribute of the project. We treat all decking platforms according to one principle: “Designed for today and built for tomorrow” That applies to the layout, the beams, the joists, the fixings, the airflow, the drainage, the balustrade, the lighting and the finished surface. We are specialist decking installers. We also design full and complete garden schemes, so we understand how a deck must work within the wider landscape. The Decking Network: Is that what separates a specialist from a general contractor? Karl: Specialist experience allows you to understand the whole system. Decking is not simply board installation. It is design, structure, material behaviour, drainage, safety, detailing and long-term performance. Was the Project Difficult to Build? The Decking Network: What was the most difficult part of the construction? Karl: Nothing was particularly difficult for us. We have been designing decking projects since 2003. That does not mean the project was simple. It means we had the experience to plan the work correctly and avoid unnecessary problems. A large deck with different areas, level changes, stairs, lighting and balustrading may appear complicated. However, it becomes manageable when the design and construction sequence have been properly considered. One Team From Design to Completion The Decking Network: Who was responsible for building the project? Karl: Karl Harrison Landscapes designed and built it from start to finish. We completed the design, structural specification, demolition, disposal, reconstruction, decking, lighting, balustrading and final detailing. The Decking Network: What difference does that continuity make? Karl: It removes the gap between design and installation. The site team understands the designer’s intention because we are all working within the same organisation. There is also no opportunity for one party to blame another when a detail requires adjustment. The responsibility remains clear from the initial survey through to completion. One Month of Work in Dreadful Weather The Decking Network: What did the clients say when the deck was finished? Karl: Their reaction came in a clear order. First, they were excited by the appearance of the Bali boards. Then they understood why the project had cost what it did. Finally, they realised how much larger and more usable the space felt. They said: “We had no idea of the works involved. You worked every day for a month, and the dreadful weather didn’t stop you once.” The Decking Network: What conditions did the team work through? Karl: Persistent rain, wind, cold and saturated ground. However, the first priority was refusing to rush the work simply to recover time. We protected materials, managed unfinished construction carefully and sequenced the work around the conditions. The weather affected comfort. It did not affect the standard. Lighting That Does Not Resemble an Airport Runway The Decking Network: The lighting is noticeable without dominating the photographs. Was that deliberate? Karl: Yes. The lighting was part of the original design. It defined the stairs, improved safety and extended the hours in which the deck could be used. It also created atmosphere without filling the deck surface with fittings. The Decking Network: Why avoid installing lights across the boards? Karl: Too many surface lights can make a deck resemble an airport runway. Lighting should support the design, not compete with it. By planning the lighting from the beginning, we could integrate the cables and fittings properly rather than adding them after the boards had been installed. How Has Deckorators Excursion Performed? The Decking Network: The deck is used barefoot, for dining and by two large greyhounds. How has Excursion performed in real life? Karl: It has performed very well. The clients have the grip they need when the deck is wet. The surface remains comfortable under bare feet, and it copes well with regular use by the dogs. It is straightforward to clean after muddy paws, food and day-to-day activity. It also remains stable and quiet because the board and supporting structure have been specified and installed correctly. The Decking Network: Does this show why homeowners should look beyond showroom appearance? Karl: Definitely. A small showroom sample tells you very little about how a deck will behave outdoors. Homeowners should ask about grip, heat, movement, fading, scratching, cleaning and long-term stability. A board must perform as part of a complete decking system. Why We Refuse to Install Low-Quality Hollow Composite Decking The Decking Network: You have experience with many UK composite decking products. How does Excursion compare? Karl: We have experience with most of the established composite products in the UK, as well as lower-grade hollow-core decking. We refuse to work with the inferior hollow products. We have seen major issues with manufacturing quality, expansion, contraction, fading and other short-term failures. Those apparent savings are rarely worthwhile. The Decking Network: Is that controversial? Karl: Perhaps, but it is based on experience. Cheap composite is not always economical composite. Deckorators Excursion does not suffer from the shortcomings we have encountered with lesser products. It offers natural variation, reliable performance and excellent dimensional stability. The decking continues to look appropriate within the architecture rather than becoming an obvious synthetic addition. “It Is Only Decking” The Decking Network: What would you say to someone who believes any competent builder could produce the same result for less? Karl: They are underestimating almost every part of the project. They may not consider structural design, load paths, drainage, ventilation, thermal movement, balustrade rigidity, stairs, lighting or material compatibility. They also underestimate the physical quantity involved. This 90 m² deck structure and its associated materials weighed approximately 6.5 to 7 tonnes. “That is not a small decorative surface. It is a substantial external structure” The Decking Network: Did the month-long construction programme help the clients understand the cost? Karl: Yes. When they saw the team working every day for approximately a month, the cost began to make sense. The finished boards are only the visible layer. The real work begins underneath. What Should Homeowners Learn From This Project? The Decking Network: Looking back at the original request to replace a few rotten components, what is the main lesson? Karl: There are several. Never invest in new boards until the full structure has been assessed. Understand that the cheapest repair can become the most expensive choice. Recognise that a large deck must be designed as a structure, not priced only as a surface. Premium materials also need premium design and construction beneath them. Finally, choose a specialist who will tell you the truth, even when the answer costs more than expected. Deckorators Excursion: A Solid Finish The Decking Network: And what does the completed project prove about the decking itself? Karl: It proves that composite decking can be beautiful, practical and technically dependable. The Bali colour transformed the property. It created the warm earth tone the clients wanted, worked perfectly with the architecture and contrasted well with the black Fortitude balustrade. More importantly, the product has performed. That is why Deckorators Excursion provides such a strong finish to this story. The clients did not choose it because of a sales slogan. They compared the samples and made their decision within seconds. The completed deck then justified that decision through its appearance, grip, comfort, stability and durability. Final Thoughts This project began with the hope that a few rotten timbers could be replaced. Instead, the inspection revealed an unsafe and exhausted structure that needed complete reconstruction. The result is a 90 m² outdoor living space designed for dining, relaxing, entertaining and everyday family use. It combines a carefully engineered structure, recycled-plastic support posts, Eurocode 5 structural principles, stainless-steel fixings, integrated lighting and Fortitude balustrading. The visible finish is Deckorators Excursion in Bali. Warm, natural-looking and technically dependable, it demonstrates what composite decking can achieve when the right product is supported by experRead more

Decking Network wrote a new post

Mon, 04 May 2026 10:31:54 +0000

Why trade experience alone does not make someone an Expert Witness At first glance, Trade Experience can mean Expert Witness work can look like a sensible next step for an experienced landscaper. The work appears less physical, while the fees can look attractive. Many in the trade assume that years on the tools are enough to carry someone into reporting for disputes. That assumption often causes the first problem. Trade experience matters enormously. It brings context, technical understanding and practical judgement. Even so, trade experience alone does not make someone an expert witness. The two roles connect, but they are not the same. One role sits in construction, sequencing, materials and practical problem-solving. The other sits in a serious legal framework and demands independence, structure, restraint and reasoning that can withstand scrutiny. That is a very different discipline. Why expert witness work can seem attractive Hardworking landscapers often look at expert witness work and see an easier way to earn money. Site work can be relentless. Weather, labour issues, delays and rising costs all place pressure on margins. Against that background, expert work can seem like a more attractive option. Sometimes the opportunity arrives through a modest dispute. A homeowner asks for an opinion. A solicitor requests a report. The issues may appear straightforward. At that point, some assume that trade knowledge will naturally carry them through. On a simple matter, that may appear to work for a while. A report gets written, a fee gets paid and confidence rises quickly. Early success can create the wrong impression. In many cases, that confidence is misplaced. Trade knowledge and expert evidence are not the same A good landscaper is not automatically a good expert witness. The same point applies across the wider construction world. A strong installer does not automatically become a strong designer, surveyor or contract administrator. Related roles still demand different skills. Expert witness work involves much more than visiting a site and giving an opinion. The role requires careful reading of the issues in dispute, the documents, the scope of work and the evidence available. An expert must identify what was specified, what was built, what may be missing and what standards may apply. That process takes time. Clear boundaries matter too. Contractors often make practical decisions quickly on live projects. Expert work requires something different. The expert must know where their opinion begins and where it should stop. Overreach can damage the whole report. In legal work, that boundary matters a great deal. CPR Part 35 is not a casual framework Many underestimate this point. CPR Part 35 is not simply a smarter heading placed at the front of a report. It is a strict procedural framework for expert evidence. The rules require independence, objectivity and a clear understanding that the expert’s duty is to the court, not the client paying the fee. That changes the role completely. A report cannot read like a contractor’s complaint letter. Neither can it become a sales pitch for remedial works. An expert must not act as an advocate. Instead, the report must provide balanced analysis, even where some facts weaken the case of the party who gave the instruction. That can be an uncomfortable lesson for those who enter the field too lightly. One can easily imagine the private reflection after a poor first experience. It looked like a sensible option until the judge tore the report apart on structure and described it as a serious departure from the strict protocols of CPR Part 35. What first appeared to be a profitable extension of trade experience suddenly becomes a very painful lesson. Impartiality sits at the centre of the role This point should never be overlooked. An expert witness does not fight the client’s corner. Nor should the expert behave like a hired gun. The role demands an independent, balanced and properly reasoned opinion. That duty sits at the heart of the work. A proper report must acknowledge the facts that support the opinion and the facts that weaken it. Once an expert starts writing what the instructing party wants to hear, the report begins to unravel. Bias does not always show itself in an obvious way. Loaded language can reveal it. Selective use of facts can reveal it too. Exaggerated criticism, overconfident conclusions and the omission of awkward material can do the same. Sometimes the problem appears when an expert refuses to admit uncertainty, even though the evidence clearly leaves room for it. Judges notice those things very quickly. If an expert shows bias, embellishes the truth or drifts into advocacy, the court may attach little weight to the report. A judge may criticise the evidence openly. Cross-examination may then destroy the expert’s credibility. In more serious cases, a false statement backed by a statement of truth can carry consequences far beyond embarrassment. This is not an arena for guesswork. Cross-examination changes everything Another misunderstanding often follows close behind. Some assume the work ends when the report has been submitted. In reality, the process may only be starting. Written questions may follow. Clarification may be required. Meetings between experts may take place. Court attendance may then become necessary. In some cases, barristers will cross-examine the expert in open court. Weak reporting usually unravels very quickly at that stage. A poor opinion may survive in a quiet office with a willing client. It rarely survives forensic questioning. Barristers test assumptions, challenge inconsistencies, expose exaggeration and probe every area where the expert has moved beyond the evidence. For anyone who entered the role too casually, that day can be horrific. It is easy to picture the reaction afterwards. I had no idea I could be called to court and cross-examined by barristers. That day was horrific. Whether anyone uses those exact words or not, the sentiment is easy to understand. A proper report takes serious time Many people only understand the workload when they try to do the job properly. A serious expert report may run to 9,000 words or far more. Even then, the writing forms only the visible end product. Long before that document exists, the expert may need to read quotations, invoices, specifications, drawings, photographs, emails, messages and background papers. The site inspection then takes its turn. After that comes the harder part. Notes need organising. Measurements need checking. Photographs need reviewing. Observations then need comparing against the documents, the scope and the standards. Drafting follows only after that groundwork has been done. Careful checking and refinement then take more time still. Answer this, does trade experience mean that as an expert witness you know and understand all Relevant Standards? None of that happens quickly. From the outside, expert witness work can look like easy money. From the inside, it is often slow, exacting and mentally demanding. A well-constructed report takes many hours of reading, thinking, analysing and writing before it is ready to stand on its own. Why some expert witness services disappear as quickly as they appear There is nothing wrong with ambition. Likewise, there is nothing wrong with an experienced landscaper moving toward expert witness work over time. Genuine site knowledge matters and often proves essential. Problems arise when people treat the role lightly. That is why some expert witness services appear quickly, attract attention for a short period and then quietly disappear. The early attraction is obvious. The deeper demands of the work are less obvious. Once the procedural burden, the drafting time, the duty of independence and the prospect of challenge become clear, some realise that this is not simply a profitable side line after all. Trade experience expert witness are forwards that don’t automatically work together, in writing and in real life. It is a specialist discipline. Trade experience deserves respect. It forms a major part of the foundation. Even so, it remains only one part of the picture. Expert witness work requires much more than knowing how something should have been built. The role demands analysis, explanation, justification and the ability to defend an opinion within a framework that treatsRead more

Decking Network wrote a new post

Mon, 16 Mar 2026 19:07:18 +0000

Decking Business Growth: From Deck Builder to Business Owner 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 business becomes overwhelming. They are still installing most projects themselves while also quoting, managing clients and solving problems. The workload grows, but the business still depends entirely on them. This is the moment many owners realise something important. Building decks and building a business require two very different skill sets. Sustainable decking business growth begins when installers make the shift from tradesperson to business owner. Why Decking Business Growth Often Stalls In the early stages, being busy feels like progress. Projects are booked months ahead and word-of-mouth referrals continue to arrive. However, growth without structure often creates new pressure. Many decking business owners find themselves: Working long days on the tools Quoting late in the evening Managing cash flow between projects Constantly solving operational issues Despite a full diary, the business can still feel fragile. If the owner stops working, the business often stops as well. The challenge is rarely craftsmanship or reputation. It is usually the lack of business structure behind the work. Craftsmanship Builds Reputation. Structure Builds Businesses. Great craftsmanship will always be the foundation of a successful decking company. However, craftsmanship alone does not guarantee long-term success. Sustainable decking business growth depends on building the structure that supports the work. That structure often includes: Clear pricing and margin targets Defined quoting and project processes Strong communication with clients Planning installation capacity across the season Financial visibility across the business These areas may not feel as satisfying as completing a beautiful project. Yet they are the foundations that allow a business to grow without constant pressure. Strong businesses rarely grow by accident. They grow when strategy, customer experience, operations and leadership develop together. The Real Drivers of Decking Business Growth In my work supporting landscaping and outdoor living businesses, there is often a moment when the mindset changes. Owners begin asking different questions. Instead of asking, “How do I fit more work into the diary?” They begin asking, “How do I build a business that works without me doing everything?” This shift changes priorities. Business owners start focusing on: Pricing projects properly Planning capacity rather than chasing work Building a small, capable team Improving systems and processes Protecting the reputation they have built When these foundations are in place, decking business growth becomes far more sustainable. Moving From Installer to Business Owner The transition from installer to business owner can feel uncomfortable. Many owners worry about stepping back from the tools. Some feel that doing less installation means contributing less. In reality, the opposite is usually true. When the owner focuses on leadership and direction, the whole business improves. They bring clarity to: The type of work the business should take on The level of quality expected on every project The experience clients have with the company How the team operates day to day This leadership allows the business to grow while maintaining its standards. Five Practical Steps to Support Decking Business Growth If you recognise some of these challenges, there are practical steps that can strengthen your business and create more stability. Start with these foundations. Understand your numbers Sustainable growth starts with clear financial visibility. Know the margins your projects must achieve. Define the type of work you want to win Not every enquiry is the right fit. Clear positioning helps attract better projects. Strengthen the client journey From first enquiry to project completion, clear communication builds trust and builds reputation. Build simple operational systems Document how projects are quoted, scheduled and delivered so work does not rely entirely on you. Develop leadership within the business Whether it is one installer or a growing team, strong direction creates consistency and confidence. Small improvements in these areas can transform stability and support long-term decking business growth. Building Strong Businesses in the Decking Industry The outdoor living sector continues to grow as homeowners invest more in their gardens. This creates real opportunity for skilled decking installers. However, the businesses that thrive over the long term combine excellent workmanship with strong business foundations. When installers make the shift from deck builder to business owner, everything changes. They gain clarity, control and confidence in the future of their business. That shift is what truly drives sustainable decking business growth. About the Author Neil Stead is a UK business consultant specialising in landscaping and outdoor living companies. Through Steady Consulting Ltd he helps business owners build stronger, more profitable businesses using practical strategy, operational structure and leaRead more

Decking Network wrote a new post

Sat, 14 Mar 2026 12:52:24 +0000

Is composite decking all its cracked up to be? 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 is wrong with that, of course. However, when it offers misleading and ill-considered negative statements against competitive products, it does two things. does not diminish the value of the competition. It simply highlights the fear that its funders have of that competition. Using negativity as the only sales tool demonstrates not the natural beauty of wood. It undervalues the fact that wood is the most versatile material in existence. Nowhere does it distinguish its negative comments as relative against either softwood or hardwood decking. It only generalises at one value point. Wood is also a composite The first thing they fail to recognise is that wood is, in fact, a composite itself. It is made up of organic fibres, along with lignin, cellulose, and hemi-cellulose. All three are classified as plastics, for clarity. “Wood is a natural, organic composite material composed primarily of cellulose (approx. 50%), lignin (20–30%), and hemicellulose (15%–25%), which together form a fibrous structural tissue.” Global market share and value Globally, composites hold around 50% of the deck board market value. They hold only around 20% to 25% of the number of linear metres, or feet, used. This clearly demonstrates the general cost difference between the two high-level options. However, it does not show the real spread of materials used. The vast bulk of wood used is still softwood. That is around 95%, whether raw or treated. As with wood, there is a wide range of composite products available. These are offered at differing quality and performance levels, and of course prices. Performance data and standards The lack of comparable performance data remains a global issue. However, each manufacturer offers comprehensive data, which includes installation guidance. In the USA, code standards vary across the 50 states. They deliver strong performance criteria in installation. They do not do so in terms of individual technical criteria. It would be anti-competitive to generalise. In Europe, there was an attempt to build a standard. The result was EN 15534-4 (2014). It ended up missing the objective by a country mile. Frankly, it is pointless, as it is material-based, not decking-application relative. In fact, across greater Europe, well outside North America, there are no official standards. That applies to either composite or wood in deck construction. The TDCA PAS and composite products The TDCA’s PAS, or Product Approval Scheme, is a positive step. However, it has never been generated or adapted to the composite world. The range of tests for wood is not the same for composite. That should be noted. It should also be noted that most composite manufacturers use proprietary technology. They are therefore not able to open up that area to any form of third-party investigation. Most certainly, they will not do so for an organisation openly biased towards wood. That bias is at the expense of composites. Would the DeckMark scheme be of value? Yes, of course it would. However, the requirements of the testing do not currently allow for it. Equally, the TDCA has long been advised that it does not represent the whole industry. It represents only part of it. Yet it has chosen not to adapt. Why manufacturers have not taken part All of the test data stated as part of the TDCA PAS testing is available from every manufacturer. Yet none of them have taken up the opportunity. The reasoning behind this is not just the proprietary technology base. It is also the need to give access to view and inspect the product sites themselves. That is simply not viable. Add in the lack of interest in having products compared directly to competitors by a biased organisation. Is it really any surprise that it has not happened? Most likely, it never will through the TDCA in its current form. The cost aspect is also a consideration. That is due to the location of the vast majority of composite decking manufacturers being outside the UK. This does not diminish the great work that the TDCA does when promoting wood. It also promotes good decking building practices generally. That includes the DeckMark scheme. However, it uses only wood as a material. What the TDCA knows about composites Within the article, the most disappointing part is that headed, “What the TDCA knows about composites”. Anyone involved in the composites industry will no doubt agree with me. Based upon what is written, it is clearly “Not much”. If the same approach was taken to promote the performance of basic-level softwood decking, the comments would generally be the same. Yet hardwoods offer much better aesthetics at a higher price. However, as with all woods, they need chemical treatments. Those treatments are needed to retain their looks and performance. Buyers should be cautious So, “Buyers should be cautious” applies to both composites and woods alike. Everything needs a level of maintenance. Better-quality composites need far less. The data and information presented by the TDCA is relative only to the lowest-level composite products. These come primarily from Asia. They do not represent the premium products from Europe and North America. Framing, education and know-how Equally, the use of wood in framing should be a minimum of C16. C24 should be used if budget allows. Even here, the market is seeing usage transfer across to aluminium, steel, and even recycled plastics. The real issue that transcends the material used is education and know-how. Pro-channel and DIY comparisons The much-reported “Pro-channel” deck builders are presented as such mainly against the volume of a specific manufacturer’s products they use. It is not purely about build quality. Within the pro-channel, there are many solid deck designers and builders. There is also a good depth of deck artists. They design and build some simply stunning results. That applies not just to composites, but also wood. The DIY channel is exclusively price-focused. Actual product performance and consumer value sit much lower on the viability ladder. Generally, at the lower-budget end of the market, softwood decking is the first product consumers use. They then look to move to composites as an upgrade. That move is all too often to the lower end of the composites ladder. That usually means hollow, uncapped product from Asia. As budget increases, so does the demand for performance and aesthetics. That applies not just to the deck surface products. It also applies across the whole construction project. Final thoughts It is, of course, disappointing that negativity is the driver of competitive marketing. That is especially so when knowledge is poor, focus is biased, and scope for growth is limited by structure. The TDCA is a well-managed association with all the right intentions. However, it does not represent the whole market. It represents only the wood part. That remains the case despite many attempts by the non-wood sector. Those attempts were made to move it into a space where they could benefit from and through it. That wider benefit could then be passed on to the market. This ComposiRead more

Decking Network wrote a new post

Fri, 28 Nov 2025 18:12:10 +0000

Heritage Decking Yorkshire composite Heritage Decking – Yorkshire composite decking installer When homeowners in Leeds and across Yorkshire search for professional composite decking installer, Heritage Decking is the name that keeps coming up. From compact town gardens in North Leeds to luxury terraces in Harrogate, the company has built hundreds of bespoke decks across the region, always with the same focus: craftsmanship, durability and detail. At the heart of the business is Barry Metcalfe – deck design in his DNA, and a perfectionist when it comes to structure and finish. Barry leads a close-knit, highly trained team who treat every project as if it were their own garden. This cornerstone guide explains what Heritage Decking do, where they work, and why they’re fast becoming the go-to Yorkshire composite decking specialists. Composite decking in Yorkshire – built for British weather Yorkshire gardens see everything from driving rain to frosty mornings, so a deck has to be engineered for year-round performance. Heritage Decking design every composite decking installation with drainage, ventilation and correct joist spacing in mind, helping boards stay stable, safe and comfortable underfoot in all seasons. If you’re comparing composite decking installers in Yorkshire, ask what sits underneath the boards: a well-built subframe and properly planned water run-off are what keep a deck looking sharp and feeling solid long after the installation day. Composite and wood decking – design-led, not just fitted Heritage Decking doesn’t simply “lay boards”. The process starts with a consultation and site visit, where Barry and his team look at levels, access, drainage and how you want to live outside. They offer: Composite decking – low-maintenance, long-life decks for modern outdoor spaces. Wood decking – classic timber decks tailored to the property and budget. Integrated extras such as lighting, planters, balustrades and clever storage to turn a simple deck into a complete outdoor room. This design-first approach is why Heritage Decking are trusted for composite decking installations across Yorkshire, from small replacement decks to full outdoor entertaining areas. Because Barry’s background is rooted in structure and precision, the subframe and foundations get just as much attention as the visible surface. That’s why decks from Heritage feel solid underfoot and keep performing year after year. Deckorators & premium materials – why Heritage choose the best Heritage Decking are not tied to one brand, but they are known for adopting high-performance products before they hit the mainstream. A great example is their work with Deckorators mineral-based composite decking. Heritage completed the first UK premium installation of Deckorators Excursions decking in Kirk Ella, East Yorkshire, showcasing the stability, low movement and cool-underfoot performance of mineral-based boards. Benefits of the premium composite systems they use include: Exceptional resistance to warping and movement Strong, lightweight boards that are easier to handle on complex sites Very low maintenance – ideal for busy households Excellent slip resistance and long-term colour stability Whether it’s Deckorators or another carefully selected brand, Heritage only specifies decking that they trust structurally and aesthetically. Landscaping & paving – full garden transformations Although composite decking is their speciality, Heritage Decking also design and build: Paving and patios Garden paths and terraces Complementary landscaping to tie decks into lawns, planting and boundaries This means clients in Leeds, Harrogate, York, Wakefield and across Yorkshire can enjoy a single, coordinated outdoor design, instead of juggling multiple contractors. Where Heritage Decking work Based in Leeds, Heritage Decking regularly travel across North, South, East and West Yorkshire. Typical project locations include: Leeds and North Leeds Harrogate and the edge of the Yorkshire Dales Kirk Ella and wider East Yorkshire Wakefield and surrounding towns If you’re searching for “composite decking near me” anywhere in Yorkshire, there’s a good chance Barry and his team have already completed a project not far from you. Why choose Barry Metcalf and Heritage Decking? There are plenty of people who can fit decking. Very few approach it with the discipline and pride that come from an ex-military background combined with years of specialist experience. Clients choose Heritage Decking because: Barry leads every project – from design to handover Site teams are respectful, well-organised and punctual Details such as board layout, fixings, edges and drainage are planned, not improvised Only proven, high-quality materials are used, from subframe to surface Testimonials consistently praise their workmanship and communication “In short, Heritage Decking offer the reassurance of a company that treats decking as a professional craft, not a weekend add-on”. Planning your own decking project in Yorkshire? If you’re considering composite decking anywhere in Yorkshire, make sure that Heritage Decking is at the top of your list. Next steps: Visit their Composite Decking and Wood Decking pages to see examples of recent projects. Use the contact form or call the office to arrange a no-obligation site visit. Work with Barry and his team to create a tailored design that suits your home, lifestyle and budget. With Heritage Decking and Barry Metcalf’s experienced team on site, you’re not just getting a new deck – you’re investing in an outdoor spaceRead more

Decking Network wrote a new post

Thu, 16 Oct 2025 21:28:50 +0000

DIY SOS decking ramp by Gower Composite Decking with TREX 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 TrexPro® installer and owner of Gower Composite Decking and Carpentry. This bespoke ramp was designed to solve a practical and emotional challenge. The homeowner, Dan, was left using a wheelchair following a life-changing accident. The 72 cm height difference between his back door and garden made outdoor access impossible — until Paul stepped in to help. Designing Access with Purpose When the DIY SOS production team realised that a conventional ramp wouldn’t meet the required gradient, they called upon Paul Smythe. He is one of the few professionals in the UK experienced in creating curved composite decking systems. “I heard the team were struggling to achieve a safe, comfortable incline,” said Paul. “Once I understood the brief, I knew a curved design would provide both function and flow — something that felt part of the garden rather than imposed upon it.” Paul used Trex Enhance® Rocky Harbor, chosen for its long lifespan, sustainability credentials, and slip-resistant surface — all crucial factors for a ramp designed for daily use. The substructure and railing were also supplied by Trex, with structural timber provided by Gower Composite Decking. A Collaboration of Skill and Generosity Both Trex and Paul volunteered their time and materials for the DIY SOS project. This ensured that the finished ramp was not only safe but beautiful — a permanent addition that enhances accessibility and wellbeing. Lee Heitzman, UK & Ireland Market Manager at Trex, commented: “We were delighted to support such a meaningful project. Seeing professionals like Paul apply their skill to create something life-changing is exactly what defines our industry — practical craftsmanship with a human purpose.” The finished ramp demonstrates what’s possible when design thinking meets high-quality materials. Its soft curvature, seamless lines and natural grey tone blend effortlessly with the garden surroundings. This is proof that accessibility can also be aesthetically exceptional. Trex and the Future of Inclusive Outdoor Design This DIY SOS project highlights the role of modern composite decking in inclusive landscape design. Trex decking continues to demonstrate that performance, sustainability, and creative potential can go hand in hand — especially when in the hands of professionals like Paul Smythe. Trex and The Decking Network continue to showcase excellence within the industry. This collaboration stands as a reminder that decking isn’t just about outdoor living — it’s about creating spaces for everyone. Decking designed and build by a pro DIY SOS decking ramp was designed by a Pro and built by a Pro. This is no way meant to suggest a project as complicated should be considered as a DIY installation. Trex decking installation near me in Swansea Gower Decking delivers beautiful, durable decking design and build in Swansea. The team plans every detail, then installs with care, so each garden gains a smart, long-lasting space. They work with smooth softwood, premium hardwoods, and low-maintenance composites such as Trex®. They also sort drainage, levels, lighting, and privacy screens. A local company that understands Swansea plots and the Gower climate, which means decks that stay solid through every season. Pricing is clear. Service is tidy. Results look great. Ready to improve your outdoor living? Visit gowerdeckRead more

Decking Network wrote a new post

Sun, 12 Oct 2025 13:18:58 +0000

10 simple steps to maintain your garden deck 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 guide walks you through simple checks and quick wins. It works for smooth pine and other softwoods, modified timbers like Accoya and Kebony, tropical hardwoods (Ipé, Bangkirai/Yellow Balau, Iroko, Cumaru), and composites too—Millboard, Trex, AZEK—as well as mineral boards like Deckorators. We’ll keep it practical, warm and a little witty, so your deck looks loved now and greets spring smiling. Your deck worked hard all summer—now let’s help it cruise through winter The 10-step plan (works for softwood, modified timber, hardwood, composite and mineral boards) 1) Clear the clutter (and the leaves) Move planters, furniture and mats. Sweep off loose debris. Lift mats so moisture can’t sit trapped all winter. A soft broom and a leaf blower are perfect partners. 2) Dry sweep, then wet rinse First, sweep. Next, hose down on a gentle setting to lift fine dust. Avoid aggressive jetting at this stage—you’re just softening the grime. 3) Quick health check (5-minute safety sweep) Look for lifted boards, proud screws, loose handrails and algae on steps. Mark anything suspect with masking tape—you’ll fix it after cleaning. 4) Choose the right clean-and-care path for your deck type Because not all decks are equal, pick the guidance that matches your boards. a) Natural softwoods (smooth pine for the win) Why we love it: smooth pine is easy to live with and straightforward to maintain. Clean: mild deck cleaner, soft brush, rinse well. Protect: breathable oil or penetrating stain designed for softwood. Tip: keep ground-contact areas ventilated and clear of soil build-up. b) Modified timbers (Accoya®, Kebony®) Clean: neutral pH cleaners; soft brush. Finish: use manufacturer-approved breathable coatings; avoid film-forming varnish that can trap moisture. Note: these timbers move less, but still deserve gentle care and regular inspections. c) Tropical hardwoods (Ipé, Bangkirai/Yellow Balau, Iroko, Cumaru) Reality check: hardwoods look stunning and are the most expensive to maintain well. Best-in-class system: Owatrol leads the pack for cleaning, preparing and oiling dense hardwoods. Cleaner/Brightener: a dedicated cleaner/brightener system (e.g., Owatrol’s range) removes greying and opens the grain. Oil: use a saturating oil suitable for dense hardwoods to feed, protect and even out colour. Tip: always test a small area; wipe away excess oil to prevent tackiness. d) Composites Millboard—the UK’s most popular premium composite—Trex, AZEK (Elements). Clean: follow the brand’s own cleaner or a mild detergent; soft brush; rinse well. Avoid: solvent cleaners, wire brushes, or very high-pressure jets. Millboard note: treat the unique surface with care—gentle cleaning, no abrasives. e) Mineral-based boards Deckorators “Excursion” in the mineral category. Clean: mild detergent and water; soft brush; rinse thoroughly. Perk: mineral boards resist movement and heat build-up, so they’re great for year-round stability. 5) Tackle grease and tannin spots Target BBQ grease, sunscreen drips and leaf/tannin stains with spot cleaner before the general wash. Work small areas. Rinse as you go. 6) The main clean (work in sections) Apply cleaner, agitate gently, keep it wet for the dwell time, then rinse. Work with the board direction. Keep run-off away from borders and ponds. 7) Drying time—really let it dry Give the deck 24–48 hours of dry weather after cleaning. Oil and sealers need a dry, dust-free surface to bond. Patience now equals less work later. 8) Protect and finish (by material) Softwood: apply a penetrating oil or stain. Two thin coats beat one heavy one. Modified timber: use the coating system approved by the timber maker; stick to the schedule. Hardwood: use the cleaner/brightener + Owatrol saturating oil system. Maintain little and often. Composites/mineral: normally no oiling required. Just keep clean. If the brand has a protector/top-up spray, use that. 9) Fixings, framing and drainage Check screws are snug (don’t over-drive). Check handrails. Make sure drainage routes are open—no mulch dams against the deck edge. Lift planters off the surface with feet to allow air flow. 10) Winter routine—set and forget Monthly quick sweep: 10 minutes keeps algae at bay. After storms: remove leaf drifts. Icy mornings: skip salt if you can; use a plastic shovel and a gentle anti-slip product approved for your deck type. FAQs for jest washing my decking Should I pressure-wash?Yes—but with care. Use a fan tip, moderate pressure, and keep the lance moving with the grain. Avoid close-range blasting, especially on composites and softwoods. Do I need to oil every year?Softwood and hardwood usually benefit from a light top-up annually or every other year. Modified timbers and composites need far less—follow the manufacturer’s guidance. Why does hardwood go silver?Sunlight weathers the surface. Cleaning and oiling restore depth of colour; leave it natural if you like the silver patina. Which Autumn deck Maintenance Steps and best?The decking manufacturer is the best place to get the advice for your composite decking. Tools & timings (so you can plan a Saturday) Soft broom, leaf blower, bucket, soft brush, hose, microfibre mop, masking tape. Cleaner suited to your deck type; Owatrol system for hardwoods. Optional: small cordless driver, spare screws, furniture feet.Time: 60–120 minutes to clean a typical 20–30 m² deck, plus drying and finishing. What not to do (friendly nag) Don’t trap wet leaves under mats for weeks. Don’t use bleach on timber, use Oxalic acid instead such as Owatrol Net-Trol Don’t sand composites. Don’t block air flow with soil or mulch against the deck edge. Don’t skip drying time before oiling. Internal link ideas (for Decking Network editors) Link “softwood decking” to your softwood guide. Link “hardwood oiling” to a product comparison. Link “composite cleaning” to your composite care page. Link “joist spacing and ventilation” to a framing best-practice article. Final word (with a smile) Your deck doesn’t need heroics—just a little love at the right time. Clear the leaves, clean kindly, and protect smartly. Do that, and your smooth pine, your Accoya/Kebony, your Ipé/Bangkirai/Iroko/Cumaru, or your Millboard/Trex/AZEK/Deckorators will repay you with fewer surprises and more Sundays well spent. Autumn Deck Maintenance Steps is a helpful guide and youRead more

Decking Network wrote a new post

Sun, 21 Sep 2025 16:23:53 +0000

Ban on composite decking? A balanced view for UK gardens 2025 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 and safety standards. ban on composite decking Why this page matters Clients hear “it’s banned” or “it will be banned next year”. Designers and contractors are left to explain the nuance. This post gives you the policy context, the industry positions, and a simple framework to specify responsibly—without sliding into what I call “banning creep.” What the industry bodies say (in brief) Society of Garden Landscape Designers (SGLD): High-profile “say no to plastic grass” stance and wider sustainability guidance. Association of Professional Landscapers (APL): Neutral, practice-led guidance; members may install synthetics. Landscape Institute (LI): Strong climate/biodiversity focus and support for permeable, nature-based design; critical of impermeable plastic turf in policy commentary. British Association of Landscape Industries (BALI): Broad sustainability agenda; no explicit ban on artificial lawns or composites. The Decking Network: Focuses on standards, detailing and proven systems. It doesn’t call for bans on composites or plastics; instead, it promotes quality products, correct installation, and engineering-led choices so decks last and perform These positions are influential, but they are not legislation. Local plans and building regs may affect certain applications (e.g., balcony combustibility rules), yet domestic gardens at ground level are a different question. “Takeaway: Use professional guidance as direction, not as a proxy for law. Always check local planning policies and building regs for your specific project.” How can a society, institute or association call for an outright ban? Professional bodies exist to raise standards and protect landscapes. Campaigns against plastic grass highlight real concerns: biodiversity loss, microplastics, heat, and poor drainage. Calling for an outright ban is a powerful signal, but it also raises three problems: Evidence threshold Bans should follow clear, robust evidence and a defined harm pathway (not just dislike or aesthetics). Where harm is site-specific (soil, slope, flood zone, use), targeted controls beat blanket bans. Unintended consequences An outright ban can create perverse substitutions: more concrete, more paving, or poor-quality “short-life” surfaces. That can increase runoff and heat—the opposite of the intent. “Banning creep” Once one product class is banned, pressure often builds to extend the logic. Today: plastic turf. Tomorrow: HDPE deck frames, composite decking, composite fencing, recycled-plastic edging, plastic planters, weed membranes, even irrigation fittings. Some of these can reduce timber wastage, resist rot in wet ground, or reuse recycled polymers. A blanket stance risks throwing out the good with the bad. My position is to use standards, performance criteria, and impact limits rather than product-label bans. Where a product type fails those tests (e.g., impermeable plastic turf over large areas without drainage or planting), it will drop out on merit. A simple framework that avoids “banning creep” 1) Function first What problem are we solving? Access, step-free routes, low-allergen play, shade, heavy wear, dogs? If living surfaces can deliver it, they come first. 2) Performance tests (not labels) Specify measurable outcomes: Permeability/SuDS: surface build-ups that drain. Biodiversity: net habitat gain in planting design. Heat: albedo, shading, evaporative cooling. Durability & maintenance: realistic life-cycle and care. Safety/regulatory: e.g., non-combustible balcony finishes where required; slip and access standards. If a synthetic option passes the tests and uniquely solves the brief, consider it—with controls (edge restraint, filtration layers, microplastics mitigation, documented end-of-life). 3) Material hierarchy Plant-led solutions: lawn/meadow, reinforced grass, groundcovers. Mineral/permeable: gravel, permeable sub-bases, open-jointed stone, permeable terrace build-ups. Timber (from verified sources) and engineered wood. Polymers/composites only where they outperform on rot risk, lifespan, or maintenance—and meet drainage and heat criteria. Avoid large continuous impermeable plastics at ground level. Quick material-by-material view Artificial (plastic) grass Use rarely, and only with robust drainage, edging and microplastics controls. Prefer living surfaces for biodiversity and cooling. HDPE/Plastic deck framing Can solve ground-contact rot in shady, wet soils. Use where timber would fail early. Ensure permeable build-ups, weed membrane choice, and recycled content where proven. Composite decking & fencing Choose well-engineered brands with verified slip resistance, temperature performance, warranty, and recycled content. Avoid dark boards in heat islands. Maintain airflow; design for end-of-life separation. Plastic planters & edging Prefer recycled polymers or long-life materials. Specify substrate volume and drainage. Where visible heat/build-up is a risk, light colours and mulch help. Policy reality (2025), briefly No UK-wide ban on synthetic landscaping materials for domestic gardens. Balcony rules: non-combustible finishes on relevant buildings can exclude many timber/composites on balconies. Sports-pitch microplastics: restrictions abroad target infill, not domestic lawns. Local plans: a few councils discourage artificial turf in new schemes. Always check your LPA. Practical client wording you can use I don’t specify plastic turf by default because it reduces habitat, adds heat, and can shed microplastics; consequently. I recommend permeable, plant-led options firstWhere low-maintenance is needed we propose permeable, plant-led options first. Composites and other polymers are considered case by case against drainage, heat, durability and safety tests. If a synthetic option is the best solution, we’ll set controls and document end-of-life. FAQs Is fake grass banned in the UK? No blanket ban. Some councils discourage it in planning policy. Will composites be banned next? There’s no general move to ban composites. Use performance-based criteria to avoid “banning creep”. Aren’t plastics always worse? Not always. In wet ground, a rot-proof frame can outlast softwood and reduce waste. The key is fit-for-purpose and low-impact design. What should I use instead of plastic turf? Living lawn with correct base and irrigation, meadow mRead more

Decking Network wrote a new post

Fri, 19 Sep 2025 15:41:14 +0000

Deckorators Excursion decking UK: First premium installation by Heritage Decking 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 Britain with a terrace that demonstrates not only beauty but also enduring strength. For homeowners and installers alike, this marks the beginning of a new chapter in decking possibilities. What is Deckorators Decking? Deckorators is a leading U.S. brand that has pioneered innovative decking solutions, particularly with its Mineral-Based Composite (MBC) and Surestone™ technology. Unlike traditional wood composites, Excursions decking delivers exceptional stability, virtually no thermal expansion, and impressive strength-to-weight ratios. This technology translates to decking that resists warping, absorbs less heat, and is safe for installation near water or directly on the ground. For UK homeowners, this means a deck that performs consistently, even in damp climates and unpredictable weather. Its perfect for the UK climate where ever your project is located. Heritage Decking: Yorkshire decking specialists Heritage Decking Ltd has earned a reputation as a trusted name in premium decking installations across the UK. Known for its craftsmanship, attention to detail, and use of the highest-quality materials, Heritage Decking is perfectly positioned to introduce the Deckorators Excursions decking UK collection to British gardens. Led by Michelle Walker, Finance Director, the company continues to set benchmarks in customer satisfaction and professional delivery. Their growing demand, with bookings extending into 2026, is proof of their respected standing in the industry. The first UK installation: Tahiti and Bali elegance The inaugural installation used Excursions Tahiti boards for the main field area, complemented by Excursions Bali boards for the border. This design choice highlights how contrasting tones can be combined to create a sophisticated, stylish finish. Heritage Decking carefully executed every line and joint, delivering a terrace that is not only practical but also a piece of outdoor art. The clients were delighted, expressing their joy at the transformation of their garden into a luxury entertaining space. Why Excursion decking stands apart The Deckorators Excursions decking UK range delivers a set of benefits that make it an ideal choice for modern outdoor living: Heat resistant – stays cooler underfoot in direct sun. Low to no thermal expansion – reduces warping or gapping across seasons. Lightweight yet strong – easier handling without sacrificing durability. Water and ground safe – suitable for challenging environments, including poolside or ground-level installs. Mineral-based core – resists rot, moisture, and structural damage. These features combine to offer homeowners both peace of mind and aesthetic satisfaction. Craftsmanship that sets a standard The first installation demonstrates the strength of Heritage Decking’s team. Every board was measured, placed, and finished with precision. As a result, this kind of craftsmanship fully realises the beauty of Deckorators. Clients investing in premium decking expect lasting results. By choosing a team that specialises in high-end materials and understands the structural requirements of composite systems, homeowners gain confidence in the longevity of their terrace. Looking ahead: Deckorators in the UK With such a successful first installation, the future looks bright for Deckorators Excursions decking UK. Heritage Decking has shown how American innovation can combine seamlessly with British craftsmanship. In fact, homeowners seeking low-maintenance, long-lasting outdoor solutions will increase the popularity of mineral-based composites Heritage Decking already has a busy schedule, with demand pushing projects into 2026. This clearly reflects not only the appeal of Deckorators but also the lasting trust customers place in Heritage’s expertise Why this matters to homeowners and installers For homeowners, this first project represents a new option in luxury outdoor design. Deckorators offers the blend of durability, safety, and visual appeal that transforms gardens into lifestyle spaces. For installers, it provides an opportunity to work with a product that sets new standards in performance. The low thermal expansion and ground-safe properties make installation simpler and aftercare easier. That means fewer call-backs, more satisfied customers, and stronger reputations. A new benchmark for decking in the UK In fact, the debut of Deckorators Excursions decking UK represents more than just a single project. It represents a turning point in the market. With Heritage Decking’s skill and Deckorators’ innovative materials, UK homeowners now have access to a decking solution that truly balances beauty with performance. Therefore, if you are planning a new terrace, now is the perfect time to consider Deckorators as your material of choice. Stylish, durable, and future-proof — this is decking thaRead more

Decking Network wrote a new post

Wed, 17 Sep 2025 19:14:47 +0000

FutureScape 2025 Decking Hub Returns with Decking Network 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 methods, not marketing. Sessions cut through noise and show how the right details deliver long-term performance. Expect clear steps, tight tolerances, and repeatable results. What to expect at this years Decking Hub Industry leaders sharing methods, materials, and innovation. Live demos for visual learning and real takeaways. Design features that are shaping tomorrow’s decks. You will see best-practice details and the decisions behind them. Complex topics will be broken down, then applied on stage. After each session, you can quiz the presenters and compare approaches. Why it matters to YOU Landscaping is moving fast. New materials arrive, and regulations evolve. The FutureScape 2025 Decking Hub helps you stay ahead. You’ll learn how to select substructures, manage drainage and ventilation, and finish to a professional standard. Mistakes are costly; the right process avoids them. You will leave with steps you can brief to a team and defend to a client. FREE TICKETS HERE Putting your business first Be the first to ask these guys questions, expansion, dimensions, installation, curving. Is timber best when comparing to recycled plastic or aluminium framing? Do we have to stick to the regulations? What fixings are best for Accoya? What is Deckorators decking, GRAD Systems, or Outdure QwickBuild? or why Simon Bowler likes transforming spaces with Ecoscape. And not forgetting Millboard, there must be something you want to ask Russell… Dates, venue, and the countdown FutureScape returns to ExCeL London on 7–8 October for its 14th edition. It remains the UK’s most influential landscaping event. The Decking Hub sits at the heart of that mission, bringing insight, inspiration, and innovation together. The countdown is on. In just three weeks, the doors open and the demos begin. See you there Bring your questions. Join the conversations. Meet the experts behind the methods. You’ll leaveRead more

Decking Network wrote a new post

Tue, 16 Sep 2025 18:47:26 +0000

Millboard composite decking benefits: Why this premium decking is trusted worldwide 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 clever engineering, proven performance, and worldwide credibility. Let’s explore why Millboard has earned its place as one of the most respected decking products available today. What is inside Millboards premium decking board Unlike most composites, Millboard is not made from wood flour or recycled plastics. Instead, every board has two key layers. First, the outer Lastane® surface. This hand-coloured layer creates authentic wood detail while resisting stains, fading, and algae growth. It feels soft underfoot yet grips firmly. Second, the polyurethane resin core. Reinforced with minerals and fibres, it forms a strong, non-porous base that will not rot, warp, or splinter. These layers work together to deliver the Millboard composite decking benefits that installers and clients consistently value. Decking safety through slip resistance Decking safety matters. Rain, frost, or pool water can quickly turn timber into a hazard. Millboard solves this with its textured Lastane® finish. Independent slip-resistance tests prove it performs far better than most wood or composites, even when wet. For families with children, homeowners with pools, or projects near the coast, this feature is invaluable. Designers also value the consistent performance because it reduces long-term liability. Slip resistance remains one of the standout Millboard composite decking benefits. Made in Britain, used worldwide Millboard is proudly manufactured in the UK. The company produces well over a million boards each year, supporting projects across Europe, North America, Australia, and beyond. In 2025, Millboard expanded U.S. distribution in the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic, proof of its international growth. This global reach is reassuring for homeowners. It means strong supply chains, consistent quality, and warranties that matter. Installers know that when they specify Millboard, they are working with a product recognised and trusted on the world stage. Decking with durability and low maintenance Timber requires regular treatment. Traditional composites often fade or swell. Millboard offers a different promise. Its resin-mineral core resists insects, moisture, and decay. Its Lastane® surface prevents algae from rooting, making cleaning simple. Millboard boards are expected to last 25–35 years in normal conditions. This lifespan transforms the cost equation. While initial investment is higher, the reduced maintenance and extended durability create long-term savings. That balance is at the heart of Millboard composite decking benefits. Aesthetics that fool the eye Millboard moulds its boards from real oak masters. This captures the fine grain and texture of natural timber. Colours such as Enhanced Grain Antique Oak or Weathered Oak Driftwood look strikingly authentic. Designers have praised this realism. One case study, “Remarkable Renovation,” involved a seafront property where homeowners wanted timber beauty without the upkeep. The result blended Antique Oak boards with Envello cladding, creating a luxurious terrace resistant to coastal weather. Projects like this highlight the aesthetic power behind Millboard composite decking benefits. Reference projects that inspire Millboard features in high-end residential and commercial projects. From spa resorts to private coastal homes, the boards consistently appear in premium settings. One notable project is the Port Streets Oasis by designer Emily Martin. This build showcased Millboard as part of a modern landscape where authenticity and performance mattered equally. Another example is the clifftop terraces in Devon, where Weathered Oak boards withstand salt spray and harsh winds. These case studies show homeowners and professionals how Millboard performs in demanding environments. They underline why the decking network values these boards. The designer’s perspective Designers often need products that balance looks with technical reliability. Public commentary highlights that Millboard achieves both. One designer explained “It’s a perfect replica of wood with the durability of something synthetic.” This balance is exactly what makes Millboard so appealing for luxury projects. For landscapers and installers, recommending Millboard becomes easier when respected voices endorse it. Clients trust the product more when they hear that top designers specify it for their showcase builds. Cost versus value Yes, Millboard boards cost more per square metre than softwood or many composites. But price alone never tells the full story. Consider reduced maintenance, increased safety, and long lifespan. These translate into fewer call-backs for installers and fewer worries for homeowners. Each year Millboard typically adjusts pricing by around four percent, consistent since 2011. This reflects inflation and material costs. For clients, the message is clear: early commitment often saves money. That financial planning tip is part of the practical Millboard composite decking benefits. Why the Decking Network values Millboard As a platform dedicated to decking professionals and homeowners, Decking Network highlights products that deliver long-term success. Millboard consistently meets that standard. Its structure, durability, slip resistance, and global reputation make it a benchmark for premium outdoor living spaces. For new installers, it offers a dependable material that builds client trust. For homeowners, it offers beauty and peace of mind. Together, these advantages explain why the Decking Network values Millboard so highly. An independent decking guide Choosing decking should never feel like guesswork. By understanding Millboard composite decking benefits, you can make informed decisions. Whether you are planning a small garden deck or a landmark design, Millboard delivers beauty, saRead more

Decking Network wrote a new post

Wed, 10 Sep 2025 20:43:07 +0000

Mastering the Modern Deck, Interview with Matt Burgon 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 the first time, and deliver a deck that feels solid underfoot ten years from now, not just on hand-over day. How long have you been trading I’ve worked in the family landscaping world for over two decades and launched Designer Exteriors six years ago—right before Covid. From day one the aim was to be the benchmark deck installer around Sheffield: correct detailing, correct fixings, correct structure. There’s a lot of noise online; we focus on quiet excellence. “If you want the best deck—built to last, with the right materials—that’s exactly what I do.” Curved decking, yes or no? Curves are a skillset we have, but they are costly and often unnecessary. Most of my clients want clean lines, smart zoning and efficient use of space. I’d rather put the budget into an aluminium substructure, proper drainage, step geometry and premium surfaces than burn time and money bending boards for the sake of it. What makes you qualified in the art of decking Experience since the late 1990s, and a habit of working to industry best practice and relevant British Standards. I calculate loads to EC5 principles, plan ventilation and drainage, and I’m fussy about interfaces; thresholds, edges, fascias and stairs. Quality is repeatable when you follow a clear method. Do you have any formal training anywhere Yes, TASK for decking training (LANTRA certified) plus ongoing CPD with leading manufacturers on substructures, fixings and finishing systems. It keeps me current, and it protects clients because the details match the materials. On Structure & Innovation What made you choose Outdure’s premium aluminium system for this project, and how did it change the way you build compared to traditional methods? I’ve tried other aluminium frames—span limits, awkward sections, raw silver finishes. Outdure QwickBuild https://www.fhbrundle.co.uk/lp/outdure-qwickbuild-1/ is different: sections up to 5.8 m, a broad profile range for beams, joists and bearers, and a black finish that disappears in the shadows. The clip system works across the range, so you can design the frame like a kit of parts. No rot, no twist, no moisture traps, and perfectly straight reference lines. Install is faster than timber and cleaner than plastic. The upfront cost is higher than softwood but the whole-life value is on another level. If you had to describe Outdure in three words to a homeowner, what would they be? “Versatile. Everlasting & Structural.” What’s the most surprising advantage of Outdure QuickBuild that homeowners wouldn’t think about? The long spans mean fewer posts and fewer joints, which gives a quieter, stiffer deck and speeds the build. You also get consistent step risers with no mid-flight shims and bodges. How does Outdure QuickBuild make your life easier as a designer–contractor? It’s precision. Levels lock in quickly, tolerances stay tight, and there’s minimal rework. My labour time drops, which I can push into better detailing such as fascias, trims, lighting channels, rather than fighting warped timber. Have you ever pushed the limits of Outdure with a tricky design challenge? Steps are where you see the difference. With Outdure I can create rigid, creak-free stairs with precise nosing and consistent treads. It feels architectural rather than improvised. On Decking Millboard is known for its realistic wood look; why was it the right match for this garden? The existing deck had failed. The brief was bigger, safer, lower-maintenance—but still warm and natural. Millboard gives you the look of timber with excellent slip resistance and no annual oiling. Clients love that it stays looking good without a maintenance diary. What’s your favourite Millboard colour/finish to work with, and why? Each tone has a place. For accents and trims, Burnt Cedar is superb; pair it with Coppered and you’ve got a refined contrast that frames spaces beautifully. The right colour is always design-led, not trend-led. If Millboard was a personality, how would you describe it? Dependable and well-mannered—the headteacher you respect who also buys you a quiet pint. Smart, composed, and won’t let you down when it rains. Do you think Millboard changes the way clients use their outdoor space? Yes. The slip rating gives confidence, the underfoot feel is solid, and the finish elevates the whole garden. People use their decks more when they trust them, and Millboard builds that trust. Any memorable reaction from a client seeing their Millboard deck finished for the first time? After a Golden Oak install, the client’s son turned up and said, “I thought you were having a composite deck!” That moment—when the look beats the stereotype—never gets old. On Design & Landscaping Philosophy As both designer and contractor, do you start a project with a vision of the final space, or does it evolve as you build? I start with first principles; structure, drainage, thresholds, sightlines followed by a fixed written spec. Once the design is signed off, we build to plan. That’s how we deliver consistency and avoid scope drift. You’ve worked across all aspects of landscaping, but what’s your personal favourite element: plants, decking, or structures? Decking, It’s where architecture meets the garden: levels, load paths, joints, edges. Get the platform right and everything else like planting, furniture, lighting makes sense. Gazebo + decking = garden luxury. What do you think transforms an outdoor structure from “practical” to “special”? Detail and dressing. Integrate lighting properly, allow for electrics and drainage, choose furniture with texture, add planters and a water note. The deck is the stage; the dressing makes it feel lived-in and intentional. If you could design your dream outdoor space with no budget limit, what’s the first thing you’d include? A client-led brief and an aluminium substructure so the bones last. From there: generous social zones, a strong focal point, layered lighting, and a Millboard surface. Luxury is longevity plus comfort. How do you balance aesthetic beauty with practical durability when designing decking structures? Choose materials that won’t fight you: aluminium for the frame (I prefer Outdure), then a surface with proven performance—Millboard is often my first choice. That combination lets the aesthetic breathe because the engineering is sorted. On Fun & Human Touches Be honest, do you still get the “new deck smell” buzz when you finish a project? Every time. I work independently, so the final clean-down and hand-over is personal. No rush—just the satisfaction of a job done properly. Do you have a “signature move” that clients now expect from you? No gimmicks—clarity and consistency. A proper design, a clear quote, staged invoices, and a finish that’s better than the drawings. What advice would you give to homeowners dreaming about decking but not sure where to start? Start with a specialist who designs first and sells second. Set a realistic budget, commission a measured survey and drawings, and agree a specification. That’s how you compare like-for-like and protect your money. If your decking projects could speak, what would this one say about you as its creator? Creative, exacting, patient—and unapologetically fussy about details. The quiet stuff you don’t see is what makes it feel right. Matthew Burgon decking professional Sheffield If you’re looking for a decking professional who leads with design and delivers on detail, Matthew Burgon of Designer Exteriors fits the brief. He brings 20+ years of hands-on experience, LANTRA-certified training, and a clear engineering mindset. Matt prefers aluminium substructures (Outdure QwickBuild https://www.fhbrundle.co.uk/lp/outdure-qwickbuild-1/) for stability and longevity, then finishes with proven surfaces—most often Millboard—for grip, realism, and low maintenance. The result is architecture you can walk on: quiet, rigid steps, clean thresholds, and edges that stay true. Moreover, his process is transparent; specs agreed, drawings signed, and work executed exactly as promised. For homeowners and architects in Sheffield and beyond, Matt’s builds show why quality matters. Expert, passionate, and precise. He’s the benchmark for modern decking in Sheffield. Materials suppliers Outdure from FH Brundle – preferred aluminium substructure for span, stability and longevity Millboard by Arnold Laver – preferred deck surface for realism, grip and low maintenance Pacific Lifestyle by John Lewis – furniture and accessories to complete the space Porcelain VitripiazRead more

Decking Network wrote a new post

Tue, 09 Sep 2025 20:52:36 +0000

Ipe and Cumaru on endangered list: Why you must rethink decking choices 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 this folks, it’s an important one. For decades, architects and designers specified Ipe and Cumaru as the gold standard for beauty and durability. But the decision by the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora signals the end of an era. This change demands a crucial question: why are some specifiers still choosing precious rainforest hardwoods when viable, sustainable alternatives exist? Why Are Ipe and Cumaru Now Endangered? Tropical hardwoods are not renewable in any realistic timeframe. Ipe trees grow painfully slowly—just 12 to 24 inches in diameter after 100 years. To reach the massive six-foot logs that dominate trade, trees must survive for thousands of years. Once cut, rainforest land is often stripped bare or even burned, destroying biodiversity and erasing the carbon-capturing potential of the ecosystem. Cumaru shares a similar fate. Together, they join other rainforest species such as big-leaf mahogany and Pernambuco wood, which are either illegal to trade or effectively extinct in commercial terms. So, while harvesting may continue for a 24-month window under Appendix II, the writing is on the wall. Labelling these woods as “sustainable” is no longer credible. Ipe and Cumaru on endangered list is no longer an option, if there no demand then the supplier chain will dry up. The Myth of “Sustainable” Tropical Timber For years, importers and suppliers promoted tropical hardwoods under the banner of FSC certification or selective logging. But the reality is stark: Growth rates are too slow to support replacement. Replanting efforts rarely succeed. Logging scars the land, displaces wildlife, and undermines local ecosystems. Consumers are waking up to this truth. Public perception is shifting, and luxury no longer means stripping rainforests bare. Why Do Architects Still Specify Ipe and Cumaru? Despite the evidence, architects continue to specify Ipe and Cumaru. Why? Tradition – These timbers have a long history in landmark projects. Perception of quality – Many still equate dense tropical hardwood with durability. Client demand – Some clients ask for “the best,” without knowing the environmental cost. But the world has changed. Sustainability is no longer optional. Specifiers who cling to tropical hardwoods risk reputational damage and may soon face legal restrictions. Smarter Timber Alternatives If timber must be used, there are responsible options. Accoya and Kebony stand out as innovative, modified woods offering exceptional durability without harming rainforests. Accoya: Radiata pine modified through acetylation, stable and durable with a 50-year above-ground warranty. Kebony: Softwood treated with bio-based liquids to mimic hardwood properties, offering long life and a beautiful finish. Both deliver the natural aesthetic architects love, but with a clear conscience. Composite Decking: A Luxury Alternative Beyond timber, the last decade has seen explosive growth in premium composite decking. These products combine recycled materials, advanced engineering, and aesthetics that rival natural wood. Millboard: Manufactured in the UK, it offers a moulded wood look with the practicality of polyurethane. Deckorators Excursion: A new mineral-based board with unmatched stability. Elements by Azek: Launched with energy by Composite Prime, they’ve quickly gained market traction. Trex Signature: The latest in a line of proven high-performance boards. These brands are not only durable and low-maintenance, but also boast strong environmental credentials. They represent the future of luxury decking. The represent a better choice than Ipe and Cumaru on endangered list. Why sustainability now equals luxury Luxury used to mean rarity. Now it means responsibility. Homeowners and developers want outdoor spaces that are not just beautiful but also aligned with their values. Ease of maintenance – Composites remove the need for constant oiling or staining. Longevity – Modified timbers and composites offer lifespans rivalling or exceeding tropical hardwoods. Design freedom – A wider range of colours, textures, and styles than ever before. In 2025, luxury isn’t about a rainforest giant cut down after 800 years. It’s about choosing a material that looks good, lasts long, and doesn’t cost the Earth. The shift in public perception The public is catching on faster than the specifiers. Increasingly, clients are asking questions: Where did this wood come from? Is it really sustainable? Are there better alternatives? Those who specify Ipe and Cumaru risk looking outdated. Those who embrace Accoya, Kebony, or composites stand at the cutting edge of design and sustainability. The end of an era, the start of a better one The inclusion of Ipe and Cumaru on CITES Appendix II marks a turning point. These woods, once prized for their beauty and endurance, are now symbols of an unsustainable past. Architects, designers, and contractors must lead the way. The options are clear: If timber is a must, specify Accoya or Kebony. If innovation is welcome, embrace Millboard, Deckorators Excursion, Elements by Azek, or Trex Signature. Ipe and Cumaru on endangered list and they’re there to stay. The decking industry has a responsibility—and an oRead more

Decking Network wrote a new post

Thu, 04 Sep 2025 10:54:45 +0000

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: Superior durability compared to timber. Better stability than traditional composites. 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 sRead more

Decking Network wrote a new post

Sat, 30 Aug 2025 13:33:45 +0000

Constant source of enquiries for your Decking business 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 results shape the way homeowners choose suppliers. When they type “deck builder near me” or “garden decking ideas,” they look at the top listings. Decking Network’s strength lies in creating content that search engines love and customers trust. This makes it the go-to marketing platform for deck pros, landscapers, and garden designers. Why a constant source of decking enquiries matters A constant source of enquiries is the lifeline of any small business. Without a steady stream of new clients, your team faces unpredictable workloads and irregular income. Transitioning from occasional leads to consistent opportunities means you can plan your projects, keep your staff busy, and build reliable profit. Homeowners research online before they ever pick up the phone. If your business is not appearing in front of them, someone else is winning the work. Decking Network ensures that when they search, your profile, projects, and expertise appear high on Google. This direct connection keeps the enquiries flowing. Decking Network Delivers Top Search Results Search optimisation is not just a buzzword; it is a proven method of securing leads. Decking Network posts rank well because they follow the rules that Google values: relevance, clarity, and authority. Each article, project showcase, or business profile on Decking Network is optimised to stand out. More importantly, these posts are shared, bookmarked, and linked. That activity builds authority and drives your business higher up the rankings. Ultimately, a constant source of enquiries happens when homeowners consistently find you online and connect your name with trusted platforms Turning Online Attention into Real Profit Visibility alone is not enough. The aim is profit. Decking Network focuses on converting attention into revenue. When a homeowner clicks your project gallery, they are already halfway sold. They see professional photos, expert commentary, and local expertise. By the time they reach out, they are serious about buying. This is marketing that works for you around the clock. Your projects become a silent sales team. Posts are live 24/7, meaning they generate enquiries even when you are on site or enjoying a weekend. That consistency creates the steady pipeline every decking business needs. Why Decking Companies Choose Decking Network Decking companies, landscapers, and garden designers face stiff competition. Traditional advertising is expensive and often delivers little return. Flyers, print ads, and even some social media posts struggle to target the right audience. Decking Network solves that problem by focusing purely on the industry. It is built for decking professionals. Every visitor is a potential customer, looking for ideas, trusted contractors, or guidance on design. Being featured here means you stand out in front of homeowners already motivated to buy. Marketing Strategies That Work Decking Network is not just a directory. It is a marketing engine. Strategies that work include: Content that educates – Homeowners love guides and “how-to” posts. They trust experts who share knowledge. Project showcases – Before and after photos prove your skill and inspire confidence. Local targeting – Posts are optimised well and as a result homeowners nearby find you fast. Consistency – Regular updates keep your profile active and help maintain top rankings. Transition words within posts improve readability. Clear structure keeps homeowners engaged. All of this increases trust and makes them more likely to pick up the phone or send you an email. Building Trust Before the First Call Trust is essential. When homeowners see your work online, they are already forming an opinion. Decking Network ensures that opinion is positive. Articles are professionally presented. Profiles highlight your services and expertise. Photos display quality workmanship of completed projects. Homeowners search for ideas, beautiful examples of completed projects, so if you show them this they are more likely to contact you because you are showing them what they really do want. They really couldn’t care less about your favourite chop saw or how to cut a mitre. Keep it aspiration and inspirational. By the time a lead reaches you, half of the selling has been done. This reduces the time wasted on price shoppers. It also increases your conversion rate, meaning more of those enquiries turn into profitable projects. Success Stories from Deck Pros Many UK deck pros already benefit. Landscapers have used Decking Network to fill gaps in their schedule. Garden designers have reached new clients who value creativity. Established decking companies have built authority that keeps them at the top of local search results. The common thread? A steady, constant source of enquiries that grows profit and reduces downtime. Once a month is perfect, a new post this regular keeps search engines interested in your fresh content. How to Get Started The question is simple: do you want more enquiries, more projects, and more profit? Decking Network powers your business by delivering all three. The process is straightforward: Sign up and create your business profile. https://deckingnetwork.com Email us advice@deckingnetwork.com we’ll reply with what Included in each package Decide which package you need. 12 months, 6 months or 3 Email us projects that showcase your best work. We publish your content that answers the questions homeowners ask online. You watch enquiries grow as you appear in front of motivated clients. It is a marketing system that works without wasting time or money. Secure Your Constant Source of Enquiries A constant source of enquiries is not a luxury. It is a necessity for growth. Decking Network puts your business where homeowners are looking and delivers leads that turn into profit. The choice is yours. You can keep relying on luck and word of mouth, or you can take control of your marketing. Join Decking Network today and enjoy the power of visibiRead more

Decking Network wrote a new post

Fri, 11 Jul 2025 10:35:02 +0000

Refine your outdoor living 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 from Deckorators (Excursion range, Oslo colour) makes a confident statement in any outdoor space. It is sleek, seamless and unquestionably luxurious. Karl Harrison, known for designing timeless and architectural outdoor spaces, chooses this material for a reason. Or rather, for several. Contact him to arrange your consultation or to discuss how to refine your outdoor living. Single colour decking is perfect for stylish exterior flooring The bold, slate-charcoal hue seen here—subtle, modern, elegant—is more than just a colour. It’s a mood. It complements natural planting schemes, architectural walls, and soft furnishings with grace. In this project, the decking steps flow effortlessly, creating zones that define the space without dominating it. Designers and architects love it for this. It never distracts. It enhances. It’s understated, yet it holds the whole picture together. Karl said “The consistent tone throughout makes styling easy— whether you’re working with sharp-lined furniture, natural textures, or a pop of vibrant planting” Simplicity that steals the show outside A single surface treatment like this doesn’t require bold patterns or multiple shades to look incredible. The texture, refined and authentic, mimics timber without the maintenance. It draws your eye but never demands attention. This is why it suits modern homes as well as classical gardens. The lines are clean. The finish feels luxurious underfoot. Whether you’re entertaining guests or reading by yourself, it performs like a silent luxury—unshakable, weather-resistant and utterly chic. A lifestyle Statement, not just a deck This isn’t decking to walk on. It’s decking to live with. Notice how the angles are sharply defined and the framing boards line up perfectly. There’s no hesitation in this construction. Karl Harrison Landscapes builds to the same standard as the interiors his clients already enjoy. A luxury deck like this doesn’t apologise for being outdoors—it owns it. Clients don’t just want a place to sit anymore. They want a lifestyle to step into. They want evenings with chilled Cristal, friends laughing, and the soft sound of a fountain nearby. This deck makes that possible, visually and practically. Designers, Architects and Installers take note If your client expects high-performance materials with a polished finish, this is the product to specify. The material resists fading, warping, and stains, yes—but more importantly, it holds visual weight. It looks like it belongs in a luxury hotel. Yet here it is in a private garden, doing the same job better. The crisp lines seen in the photos? That’s a result of both the product and the precision install. This product allows designers to plan confidently. It won’t expand awkwardly or change tone after a season. It’s stable and solid. High-End design demands high-end products Karl Harrison chooses Deckorators not just because it performs—but because it lets his creativity breathe. It gives structure to beautiful ideas and turns sketches into outdoor masterpieces. If your outdoor design needs to match the standard of your client’s lifestyle, this is the product to reach for. Whether you’re dressing a rooftop, garden terrace, or private courtyard, it brings elegance every time. And that’s the point. Not every deck needs to shout. SometiRead more

Decking Network wrote a new post

Fri, 27 Jun 2025 19:43:48 +0000

Elegant earth tone decking The art of combining earth toned decking for luxury aesthetics Elegant earth tone decking isn’t about bold patterns or loud colours. Luxury and pure elegance lies in restraint. For UK homeowners seeking timeless outdoor style, earth-toned decking offers the perfect balance of form and function. With budgets starting from £400+ VAT per square metre and increase to double that, expectations are naturally high. And they should be. At this level, every board should contribute to a refined visual narrative. The key is simplicity, harmony, and curated quality—not quantity. Why earth tones work with decking Neutral palettes—particularly mid and dark browns—are rooted in nature. These tones reflect woodland paths, aged oak, and weathered stone. They sit effortlessly within British gardens, pairing well with traditional homes and contemporary architecture alike. When combined with subtle texture and grain, these hues create warmth, depth and softness. Go too dark, and the space can feel heavy. Too light, and it lacks anchor. The sweet spot? A carefully balanced contrast between mid-brown body boards and darker fascia or picture frames. Less really is more, its elegant Keeping colour combinations minimal will enhance the luxurious feel. The luxury lies in restraint. Two complementary tones are enough. Avoid mixing grey with brown or warm tones with cool ones. Instead, choose materials with a natural matte finish—like Dekorators Excursion or Millboard Modello ranges—and lean into subtle variations within a unified palette. Stick to one texture, preferably an enhanced grain. This helps maintain visual calm while allowing the material to showcase its quality. The chap in the hat said “I rather like Dekorators Excursion, the finish is refined and understated, its the epitome of sophistication” Curves are elegant, but expensive Curved decks are beautiful. They suggest movement and craftsmanship. But they come at a cost. The labour, custom board shaping and substructure complexity all add up to much more than £1000 per curved board. (Think about the curve board and the curved substructure to support it as well as the boards that adjoin the main curve which have to be curved themselves… the skill required is very high) If budget permits, consider a curved step or border—just one. This feature becomes a focal point. In smaller gardens, keep lines clean and simple. The visual impact of negative space is underrated. Soften your surroundings with planting To frame your deck and soften edges, plant around the perimeter only. Avoid cluttering the centre. Choose large architectural leaves like hostas and ferns, mixed with flowing grasses and low buxus balls. A splash of purple from alliums or agapanthus adds seasonal drama. These are low-maintenance, tolerant of most conditions, and thrive in UK. Deck lighting makes the space warmer and look smarter Subtle lighting elevates everything. Discreet warm white LED step lights or riser illumination ensures functionality and atmosphere. Avoid over-lighting. Think hospitality, not high street. You want a glow, not a flood. Consider bollards or lanterns in darker corners. Use up lighting to create depth and draw the eye—never as a statement piece. Finishing touches with stylish furniture and planters Stick to low-profile furniture in natural or black metal tones. Clean-lined teak or powder-coated aluminium works well. Keep cushion colours muted—charcoal, taupe, or soft green. Use planters sparingly. Choose textured or stone-effect containers and fill them with grasses, upright ferns, or a single structural plant like a Phormium or lavender. Fewer, larger planters feel more deliberate than many small ones. Luxury is elegant and quiet High-end decking isn’t loud. It doesn’t need to shout. It whispers quality through tone, material and thoughtful design. Combine mid and dark tones with subtle planting, a few refined accessories, and considered lighting. For discerning UK homeowners, this is outdoor living at its moRead more

Decking Network wrote a new post

Thu, 26 Jun 2025 10:04:00 +0000

Decking comparison UK Vs USA Building Decks in the UK vs USA/Canada: A Friendly Comparison Decking comparison UK Vs USA, lets do this… Decking remains a popular choice in both the UK and North America. While the final appearance may seem similar, the rules, materials, and methods can vary greatly. Understanding these differences helps professionals and homeowners create safe and long-lasting spaces. Deck Heights and Design Styles In the UK, almost all domestic decks are low to the ground. Most are built under 600mm and do not usually require stairs or railings. As a result, they often function as patio extensions that blend easily with the garden. In contrast, decks in the USA and Canada tend to be raised. Many are installed at first-floor height, usually above a basement or crawl space. Consequently, they require stairs, balustrades, and a more structured design to ensure safety. Understanding Building Codes Deck projects in the UK follow BS5268-7.1 and Eurocode 5 (EC5). These codes offer flexibility and let builders use TRADA tables or consult an engineer. Planning permission may be needed if the deck affects access or water flow around a property. Meanwhile, the USA uses the International Residential Code (IRC) and the DCA6 guide. Canadian decks follow the National Building Code (NBC), sometimes with extra provincial requirements. These documents are more prescriptive, covering every element from joist sizes to rail heights. Framing and Structure Choices UK builders use span tables or engineering advice to size beams and joists. Most decks use 100x100mm posts spaced between 1.2 and 1.8 metres. To reduce risks with structural connections, many decks are freestanding and not fixed to the home. On the other hand, North American decks are commonly anchored directly to buildings. Builders use ledger boards, bolts, and flashing for secure attachments. Larger posts—usually 6×6 inches—are used, and the structure follows strict code-based designs. Ground Conditions and Load Demands In the UK, mild soil conditions allow for simple footings such as concrete pads or pre-cast bases. Frost heave is rarely a concern. In North America, however, deep frost lines require footings to be dug down 36 to 48 inches. Inspections are usually required. UK decks must support a live load of 1.5 kN/m². In comparison, North American decks must meet about 1.92 kN/m² (or 40 psf) to account for heavy snow and larger gatherings. Fasteners and Timber Treatments In both regions, corrosion resistance matters. UK regulations allow Class 2 or 3 galvanised or stainless-steel fixings. North America requires hot-dip galvanised or stainless options only. UK timber are required to meet BS8417 standards, while North American timber must be treated to AWPA UC4A or UC4B. Decking comparison UK Vs USA will undoubtedly lead to a stronger alliance between the two sets of regulations. Timber First: North America’s Trusted Formula North American construction relies heavily on timber. Pressure-treated wood like Southern Yellow Pine and SPF is standard. With strong codes and a history of performance, timber decking has remained a trusted method. Builders follow established span charts and fixings. This consistency ensures durable, easy-to-inspect decks. Many believe this approach works well because it balances safety with simplicity. Innovation in the UK Decking Market More UK deck builders are exploring new materials. Composite subframes, HDPE plastics, and aluminium systems are increasingly popular. These options promise durability, eco benefits, and reduced upkeep. Some of these systems are tested and perform well. Others lack consistent guidance, leaving results up to the installer’s experience. This variation can affect long-term performance. “If your decking can be found here http://www.alibaba.com its more than likely Far Eastern junk, fail in about 3 months to 3 years and will have little to no real warranty,” Weighing the Risks With limited regulation, some new products reach the market with little testing. Some fail within a few years. Others work reliably. The difference often comes down to research, engineering, and product support. That said, aluminium systems stand out as a strong choice. Leading products provide load ratings over 1.5 kN/m² and span tables approved by structural engineers. These features give peace of mind to both trades and homeowners. Final Thoughts: Finding the Balance North America has built a strong, reliable system for timber decking. It works because it’s been refined and codified over decades. In the UK, innovation is moving fast—but structure and testing haven’t always kept pace. Innovation should always be encouraged, particularly when it offers genuine benefits. However, it must also come with thorough testing, clear regulations, and solid performance data. Therefore, creating a more unified standard in the UK would greatly support manufacturers, guide installers, and give homeowners peace of mind. Until then, the safest choice is clear: use systems that are tested, documented, and engineered. Whether timber, aluminium, or composite, success comes from building on solid ground—literally and figuratively. Dekorators Voyage, Millboard, and Trex Signature deliver proven performance as composite systems with long-standing reputations. Accoya and Kebony, as modified timber options, deliver impressive durability backed by industry-leading warranties. If you must have a deck and can’t afford a trusted material you should think again. Use a well-designed and professionally built pine deck as it will last far longerRead more

Decking Network wrote a new post

Mon, 23 Jun 2025 06:14:37 +0000

Outdure’s aluminium framing system 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 deck framing system built for strength, speed, and versatility. Exclusively available in the UK through F.H.Brundle, this New Zealand-designed system is redefining how decks are built. It works on rooftops, patios, balconies, and even uneven ground. As a result, your projects finish faster and last longer. Why Choose QwickBuild Over Timber framing ? Outdure QwickBuild replaces traditional timber joists with a modular aluminium system. Therefore, it delivers enhanced stability, cleaner finishes, and greater design flexibility across multiple outdoor applications. Moreover, the system is lightweight, corrosion-resistant, and suitable for both residential and commercial builds. Once installed, you can trust it to stay level and strong, regardless of the weather. Key Advantages of QwickBuild 1. Compatible with All surfacesQwickBuild supports composite decking, porcelain tiles, softwood boards and artificial grass—all on the same subframe. As a result, you can mix finishes easily across one consistent structure. 2. Fast and efficient to installThanks to its modular design, the components click together with minimal tools. This saves time on site and reduces the risk of error. 3. Built to last outdoorsAluminium doesn’t rot, swell, or twist like timber. Consequently, QwickBuild stays strong in wet, exposed, or humid conditions. 4. Ideal for low-height buildsWith joists from just 27mm and adjustable supports, QwickBuild is perfect for low-threshold transitions and space-restricted areas. It installs directly over surfaces like concrete, turf, membranes and uneven substrates. Complete your decking system with F.H.Brundle F.H.Brundle supply the QwickBuild frame and they also offer a full range of compatible surface materials: Composite Deck Boards – Durable and splinter-free with realistic woodgrain Porcelain Tiles – Sleek, modern, and slip-resistant Artificial Grass – Soft, green, and low-maintenance UC3 Treated Softwood – Affordable and double-sided for design flexibility With over 13,000 products in stock and next-day delivery available, F.H.Brundle helps you complete outdoor projects without delay. Plan it right so it lasts for ever Outdure QwickBuild is available exclusively in the UK through F.H.Brundle, a family-run supplier with 136 years of experience. So whether you’re planning a rooftop terrace, balcony, or garden patio, their expert team is here to help. Use their free DeckPlanner tool to visualise your project, or speak to a specialist for tailored advice. Outdure’s Aluminium Framing System may be new in the UK bRead more

Decking Network wrote a new post

Tue, 17 Jun 2025 17:10:53 +0000

How Does a Company Justify the Cost of Decking Installation 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 EC5 and BS 5268-7.1, the official standards for structural timber. Understanding the cost of decking installation is vital to appreciating the value of expert workmanship, regulatory compliance, long-term safety, and the enduring quality of a properly built outdoor structure. Designs are calculated precisely. Spans, joist sizes, and post supports must match structural tolerances. This is where skill, knowledge, and compliance blend. You don’t just pay for wood and labour — you pay for years of experience, understanding of codes, and commitment to safety. Avoid installers who can’t show understanding of these standards. The cost of quality materials Quality decking lasts and poor decking costs more in the long run. Most professionals in the UK now reject cheap hollow-core far eastern boards. These products often fail early, become unsafe, and disappoint customers. Instead, the industry leans toward Dekorators mineral-based boards, Millboard Enhanced Grain, and Trex Transcend. These brands offer proven durability, tested design, and excellent manufacturer support. Combine this with a high-performance subframe — C24-graded timber, UC4 treatment, decking tape, or aluminium framing — and you’re building something that could last a lifetime. Aluminium and recycled plastic frames are virtually maintenance-free. What Professional Installers know that others don’t There is more to decking than meets the eye. True professionals understand how the deck interacts with balustrades and stairs. These details must align structurally and legally. For example, balustrade loads must be transferred correctly into a frame designed to carry them. If not, the damage to the project will cost a fortune or even someone falling off the deck is unthinkable. Courses provided by manufacturers train installers in everything from fixing specifications to finishing techniques. Many still cut corners by using interior screws on outdoor structures. This isn’t just bad practice — it’s a patent defect, and if failure occurs, it could be legally actionable. If your installer uses indoor screws, walk away. Understanding overheads and honest profit in the cost of decking installation Running a professional landscaping company comes with costs. Not all are visible to the customer. These include: Health and safety compliance (first aid) Staff employment, holiday pay and pension, specialist training CDM obligations (Construction Design and Management regulations) Marketing, advertising, website, brochures and events Accountants, banking, office time for all of the above Tools and maintenance of them, electrical testing and conformance Business storage, there’s more insurance and compliance that goes with it Vans and transport, tax, MOT, insurance, services and maintenance Insurance, public and employers liability, contractors all risk, materials and of course directors… Time taken to visit clients (unpaid) and to offer a quotation for your project. Most professional companies do charge now for their call outs, design and quotations. Profit isn’t greed — it’s what keeps skilled people employed, trained, and available when you need them. Without a profit margin, no ethical company can stay afloat or provide aftercare. Think of profit as the fuel that powers good service, not just cost. This Is More Than Decking — It’s Craft, Engineering and Weatherproofing Installing decks in the UK means working against mud, wind, rain, and unpredictable forecasts. The work is hard. But for those who do it well, it’s about more than timber — it’s about delivering a space that lives up to the vision. Skilled installers know how to build stringers for safe steps, integrate balustrades with structural compliance, and align manufacturer instructions with national standards. Your outdoor space deserves nothing less than professional execution. “Would you trust someone untrained to build the structure your family stands on?” Before you hire a decking company – Ask these 5 questions Are they trained and certified in EC5 and BS 5268-7.1? Or are they certified by a Decking brand, been trained by them and this brand offers a registered warranty. If not, how do you know they will build something safe? Can they explain how balustrades and stairs connect legally to the frame? Did they demonstrate the weight loading and offer the calculations for the project. If not, what on earth are they building? Do they provide a detailed specification, a written quotation and design, not a sketch and a guess? A text or a WhatsApp is not an official quote. You must have a written quotation with associated drawings – if not, what are you actually getting? Are they insured, CDM-compliant, and trading as a registered business? If not, who are they? Do they use outdoor-rated structural screws and quality materials that are warrantied? Do you want your deck to collapse in a few year, because it will if its not design correctly and your installer uses the correct fixings design for this very purpose… Is the completed project registered for a warranty, if not why not… Understanding and appreciating the cost ofRead more

Decking Network wrote a new post

Mon, 14 Apr 2025 17:56:38 +0000

Decking vs. Paving what would you choose? 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 you choose? The Visual Impact: Does decking look better than paving Your garden sets the tone for your home. Decking delivers warmth and character with its timber tones. Paving, on the other hand, gives a sleek, modern vibe with clean lines and stone textures. Decking works beautifully in raised areas or uneven gardens. Paving suits flat spaces and formal garden styles. The decision hinges on your aesthetic goals—and the look you want to enjoy daily. Decking Installation: Is it quicker than paving When it comes to installation, decking often wins on speed. Timber or composite boards can be laid quickly with minimal groundwork. Paving needs a level base, proper drainage, and more intensive labour. Homeowners seeking a faster transformation tend to favour decking. However, if you are consider a permanent installation you can. Some of the UK leading brands now warranty their decking for between 25 and 50 years. Decking can now be a low-maintenance solution. Deck Maintenance Matters: Upkeep Over Time Here’s the rub—both options need care, but to different degrees. Wood decking must be sealed and treated regularly. Composite decking cuts down on maintenance but still needs cleaning. Paving resists weathering, weeds, and pests. Occasional power washing and weed control keep it in shape. If you’re time-poor, paving might edge out decking here. Although it really does depend on what decking you have. The decking network asks “Decking vs. Paving what would you choose… Decking obviously” Cost Considerations: Budget vs. Benefit Price varies by material, size, and complexity. It isn’t fair to generalise on cost as every project is so different. Generally, decking solves more problems for elevation, so may work out more cost effective than paving. Softwood options offer great value, while composites cost more but last longer. Paving’s initial costs can be higher, but so is its lifespan. Over time, your investment may balance out. Weigh your budget now against what you’ll save on future repairs. Environmental Impact: Eco-Friendly Options Sustainability is on every smart gardener’s mind. FSC-certified wood makes decking eco-friendlier. Recycled composites are another green option. Paving materials vary. Natural stone can be ethical if sourced responsibly. Concrete has a higher carbon footprint, so check the source. Green thinking helps you build a better world, one slab (or board) at a time. Final Thoughts: Which Will You Choose? Decking vs. Paving: Making the Right Choice for Your Garden doesn’t come down to just looks. You need to weigh lifestyle, maintenance, and cost. Decking charms with warmth. Paving impresses with polish. So, will you kick back with a cool drink on timber boards or toast marshmallows on a paved patio? Your garden, your rules—but now you’re informed to choose wisely and have a deck. “Two paths diverged in your garden—and now you know which one leads to bliss.” So if you ask yourself “Decking vs. Paving what would you choose?” let us kRead more

Decking Network wrote a new post

Tue, 01 Apr 2025 06:40:28 +0000

Free decking give away 😂 HAPPY APRIL FOOLS’ DAY! 😂 🚨 YOU’VE BEEN FOOLED! 🚨 We’d love to give you free decking give away… but come on, that would be madness! 😆 so may we wish you all a HAPPY APRIL FOOLS’ DAY! However, if you ARE serious about upgrading your garden, The Decking Network is here to help with: ✔️ Expert decking help Product advice, tips and how too’s✔️ ✔️ Top-rated decking knowledge No free decking… but we do offer the best and most UpToDate information on the Internet about decking! 😉 Approved Decking Installers – Why Certification Matters Choosing a decking installer isn’t just about finding someone with a drill—it’s about ensuring they have the right experience, training, skills, and manufacturer approval. At Decking Network, we connect you with certified professionals who have undergone manufacturer-led training and earned official accreditation. ✅ Why does this matter? Guaranteed expertise – Trained in-house by decking brand manufacturers Correct installation – Avoid costly mistakes Warranty protection – Manufacturer-approved work ensures validity Hiring an approved installer gives you peace of mind and a flawless decking finish. 📖 Learn more about certified decking installers at Decking Network. Decking Planning Permission in the UK – Do You Need It? Did you know that not all decking projects are permitted development? Many homeowners unknowingly install decking that breaches planning regulations, leading to fines or even removal orders. ⚠️ You might need planning permission if: Your decking is over 30cm high It covers more than 50% of your garden It affects a listed building or conservation area What happens if you ignore it? Ignoring planning permission rules could mean forced removal, hefty fines, and a major headache. Don’t risk it—know the rules before you build! 📖 Check out our complete guide at Decking Network. How to Protect Timber Decking – Avoiding Rot & Decay Timber decking adds warmth and character to a garden, but if installed incorrectly, it can warp, rot, and fail prematurely. ❌ Common pitfalls of bad installation: Poor ventilation = trapped moisture = rot No drainage = pooling water = swelling & cracking Wrong treatment = UV damage = fading & splintering ✅How to prevent decking failure? Use pressure-treated timber and seal edges Install a proper subframe for airflow and drainage Regularly clean, treat, and oil your deck 📖 Discover expert tips at Decking Network. The Ultimate Choice in Garden Decking – Which One is Best for You? With so many options on the market, choosing the right decking can be overwhelming. Should you go for timber or composite? 🔹 Timber Decking – Natural & beautiful, try Accoya or Kebony 🔹 Millboard Decking – Low maintenance, eco-friendly, and highly durable So, what’s the best decking for UK gardens? It depends on your budget, style, and maintenance preference—but we break it all down for you. 📖 Read the ultimate decking comparison at Decking Network. The Latest Decking Trends for 2025 – What’s Hot? If you’re planning a garden makeover, you’ll want to stay ahead of 2025’s biggest decking trends. Here’s what’s in store: 🌱 Sustainable decking – Eco-friendly, recycled materials are leading the way 🎨 Earthy colours –Millboard Antiqued and Millboard Ashwood tones are trending ✨ LED lighting integration – Decking with smart, built-in lighting 🏡 Multi-level decks – Creating distinct garden zones Want to future-proof your garden? Get ahead of the trends now! 📖 Explore 2025’s top dRead more

Decking Network wrote a new post

Sun, 16 Mar 2025 19:25:53 +0000

Decking Feature APL Award 2025 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 industry. Awarded after a fine dinner ceremony at The Brewery, 52 Chiswell St, London, with some 600 in attendance. The decking feature APL award is completely independent and a first for the UK. Independent judging process for the Decking Feature What sets this award apart is the rigorous judging process. The panel is composed of independent experts with no brand affiliations or commercial interests, ensuring a completely unbiased assessment. Winning this award requires outstanding technical ability, creative vision, and flawless execution. Decking Awards presented by Phil Tremayne and Peter Donegan This year, the coveted Decking Feature Award was presented to the talented team at Agents Green for their exceptional decking work. All made possible in a garden designed by the brilliant Rose Stockley. The winning project combined innovative design elements with impeccable craftsmanship, creating a breathtaking outdoor space that truly stood out. From precision detailing to the seamless integration of materials, every aspect of the project demonstrated a commitment to excellence. The Finalists The competition was incredibly close, with several remarkable entries that also achieved Gold Awards for their impressive craftsmanship and creativity. Among those recognized for their outstanding work were. Gold for Insideout Home & garden improvements for “reflections” Gold for Kingfisher Decking for “Winterbank Gold for Kingfisher Decking for “Antique oak Millboard” Gold for Landigo Ltd for “Waterside” Judging an independent Decking awards for the UK The judges faced an incredibly tough decision in selecting the ultimate winner. This highlights just how high the standard of entries were this year. The Decking Network extends heartfelt congratulations to Agents Green, Rose Stockley, and all the talented professionals who achieved Gold Awards. Their dedication to quality and innovation continues to inspire and elevate the industry. Are you brave enough to enter next year We look forward to seeing what remarkable creations next year’s awards will bring and remain committed to celebrating the very best in decking design and craftsmanship. Decking feature APL award, do you think you could win? The projects that reached the finals were judged independently against strict criteria. Some entries unfortunately didn’t reach the final. Millboard seemed to be the choice material for the projeRead more

Decking Network wrote a new post

Thu, 20 Feb 2025 20:40:10 +0000

Lakeland Verandahs Dubai Installation Lakeland Verandahs Targets £1M Middle East Opportunity After Successful Dubai Installation Premium Decking Success at Aura Skypool Lakeland Verandahs, a North West decking specialist, is targeting a £1m opportunity in the Middle East after earning rave reviews for its work at one of Dubai’s most iconic locations. The company, based in Preston and Scotland, recently completed a successful installation of its premium ‘Solidek’ decking product at Aura Skypool, the world’s highest 360° infinity pool. This prestigious pool attracts celebrities such as Floyd Mayweather and Cristiano Ronaldo. Lakeland Verandahs Dubai Installation has set the bar high. Lakeland Overcoming Logistical Challenges A dedicated team of UK fitters, led by father and son duo Russell and Sam Milburn, completed the 800m² installation in just three months. The team worked tirelessly, often through the night, to accommodate the venue’s full events calendar and overcome logistical challenges. They also worked closely with the hospitality team to minimize disruptions. Unique Customisation for Dubai’s Demands To ensure a perfect match with the surrounding environment, Lakeland Verandahs created a unique ‘Aura’ colour specifically for the project. This customisation, combined with the durability of their Solidek product, proved essential for success. Russell Milburn, founder of Lakeland Verandahs, highlighted the importance of adapting their offering to the harsh Middle Eastern climate: “Hollow wood composite deck boards typically only last around twelve months in the Middle East, which is why we believe there’s a significant opportunity for our premium Solidek product,” he said. Product Durability Meets High Standards The team’s efforts to demonstrate the durability and aesthetic quality of Solidek paid off. The quality of the product and the ease of installation impressed the Aura Skypool team, leading to approval to complete the rest of the pool area. Russell Milburn added, “Our product proved that it could outperform previous installations and last longer in the extreme conditions.” Training Local Teams for Future Success Sam Milburn, who oversaw the project, emphasized the importance of perfect timing and collaboration. “We had to work around Aura’s tight event schedule and overcome challenges with sea freight. Instead, we opted to transport 24 tonnes of decking by air,” he explained. A local installation team was trained to the highest standards, ensuring they can complete projects independently in the future. A Lasting Relationship with Aura Skypool Dean Stuart Jarvis, General Manager at Aura Skypool, praised the performance of Solidek: “We needed a product that could withstand the harsh conditions at 200 meters above sea level, with intense sun, salt, and pool chemicals. Solidek exceeded our expectations,” he said. The company’s commitment to customisation and quality made them a perfect partner for the high-profile location. Expanding in the Middle East Lakeland Verandahs has set its sights on completing 12 projects in the Middle East within its first year. With ongoing negotiations with hotels, commercial architects, and luxury villa owners, the company anticipates generating £1m by mid-2025. A Strong Year for Lakeland Verandahs This international expansion is Lakeland Verandahs’ first venture into export markets, with the remainder of their work focused on the North West of the UK and Scotland. The company has seen significant growth, with sales reaching £6m last year, marking one of the best performances in its 17-year history For furtRead more

Decking Network wrote a new post

Thu, 20 Feb 2025 20:02:17 +0000

How to protect timber decking The Importance of Keeping Timber Joists Off the Ground in Decking Structures When constructing decking structures in domestic gardens, one critical factor often overlooked is ensuring that timber joists are not in direct ground contact. Timber, even when treated, is vulnerable to various forms of decay when exposed to moisture and soil. One significant threat is mycelia fungus, which thrives in damp environments and can rapidly deteriorate wood. This guide explores the importance of keeping timber off the ground and risks associated with ground contact. It also highlights alternative solutions for supporting decking structures. Read on to discover more about how to protect timber decking The Dangers of Mycelia Fungus in timber decking Mycelia fungus is a filamentous network of fungal cells that spreads through wood, consuming its lignin, cellulose and weakening its structure. In decking, mycelia fungus can take hold when timber joists or beams are in direct contact with the ground. This is especially where moisture levels are consistently high. This fungus not only deteriorates the timber but also creates an ideal environment for other wood-decaying organisms. When mycelia fungus infests timber, it can lead to structural instability, making the decking unsafe for use. You can prevent this by elevating joists above ground level which ensures proper air circulation. This also reduces moisture retention in the timber and the likelihood of fungal growth. Moisture Retention and Timber Decay Timber in ground contact is constantly exposed to moisture from the soil, leading to swelling, cracking, and eventual decay. Even pressure-treated timber, while more resistant than untreated wood, is not immune to prolonged exposure to damp conditions. Moisture accelerates the growth of mycelia fungus and other wood-decaying organisms such as bacteria and insects. By keeping timber joists off the ground, you minimize the risk of moisture absorption and extend the lifespan of your decking structure. Proper drainage and ventilation are essential to maintaining dry conditions around the timber. Issues with Timber Posts in Ground Contact Using timber posts directly in the ground, even when UC4 treated, may pose long-term risks. UC4 treatment offers enhanced protection against decay and insect attack. But over time, moisture can penetrate the timber, creating conditions for mycelia fungus to thrive. Other issues include: Insect Infestation: Termites and wood-boring insects are attracted to damp wood. Soil Acidity: Certain soils can accelerate the degradation of timber treatments. These issues highlight the need for alternative support systems that are more durable and resistant to environmental factors. “You MUST keep your joists and beams off the ground” Alternative Post Supports To avoid the pitfalls of timber in ground contact, consider using alternative post supports: HDPE called PlasPro (High-Density Polyethylene): Resistant to rot, insects, and moisture. Steel Posts: Highly durable, load-bearing, and resistant to decay. These alternatives may even be Ground Screws. Concrete posts: Provide a stable base without direct wood-to-ground contact. These materials ensure longevity and reduce maintenance needs for decking structures. “Use alternative posts supports or a steel shoe to keep our posts off the ground” Post support shoe An alternative idea to prevent your timber posts from rotting is to use a steel bases that is set into concrete. This way the concrete provides the necessary support for the timber and the steel base prevents the timber touching the ground. This company has plenty of ideas that work well, take a look at Simpson Strong-Tie and their arrangement of Post Bases here Best Practices for Decking Construction To build a durable and safe decking structure: Use elevated joists with proper ventilation. Opt for non-timber post supports where possible. Ensure adequate drainage around the deck area. Regularly inspect and maintain the structure. Conclusion Ensuring that timber joists are not in direct ground contact is crucial for the longevity and safety of decking structures. Mycelia fungus, moisture, and insects pose significant threats to timber, even when treated. By using alternative post supports such as HDPE, steel, or concrete, you can build a resilient and long-lasting deck. These enhanced products can withstand these environmental challenges for years to come. For more information about leaning about how to protect your timber decking please contact us advice@deckingnetwork.com For more information about wood preservatives andRead more

Decking Network wrote a new post

Wed, 05 Feb 2025 09:33:32 +0000

30 Years of Landscaping Excellence The Association of Professional Landscapers (APL) Celebrates 30 Years of Excellence In 2025, the Association of Professional Landscapers (APL) proudly marks its 30th anniversary. A huge milestone that highlights three decades of unwavering commitment to exceptional standards in landscaping. 30 Years of Landscaping Excellence will be a party not to miss Founded in 1995 by industry visionary Alan Sargent, a proponent of the highest landscaping standards. The APL has grown into a beacon of quality and professionalism in the landscaping industry. Over the years, the association has set the benchmark for best practices. This benchmarking of standards ensures that members deliver top-tier services and contribute to the evolution of the landscaping profession. As the APL looks ahead to the future, it continues to foster innovation, expertise, and a shared passion. Here’s to 30 years of excellence—and to many more to come! . Reflecting on this milestone, Alan Sargent, founder of the APL, said “I founded the APL, 30 years ago as I knew a lot of landscape contractors in the domestic sector. These are the people who really wanted to have a voice of their own. My vision for the APL when I originally started was to give them that voice. A vision tha would provide a column of mutual support to fellow landscape contractors. We work alone and very often get so insular and I felt there was a need for us to get together to support each other. We had our first meeting in Birmingham and over 40 companies turned up with over 100 other companies expressing interest. Thirty years on, it’s inspiring to see how the APL has grown into a trusted authority in the industry. This association sets the highest standards for landscaping across the UK.” Phil Tremayne, General Manager of the APL since 2016, adds “It was a great honour to be asked to manage the APL. An organisation that is littered with innovation, quality, and professionalism. When I started, Mark Gregory was the chair and his vision alongside Alan’s was to create a community across all sectors of the industry. Our cluster meetings and Awards demonstrate that we are a long way down that path, with designers, landscapers, professional gardeners, and suppliers sharing experiences and techniques. I genuinely feel very proud to be here at this anniversary, which is a testament to the talent and dedication of our members, who bring outdoor spaces to life with their exceptional skills.” The APL awards 2025 In 2025, the APL will host its prestigious APL Awards on Friday, 14 March, at The Brewery in London. The event will celebrate outstanding achievements in landscape design and construction. Its awards will highlight the creativity and craftsmanship of professionals who transform outdoor spaces into stunning gardens and landscapes across the UK. “These are the most coveted awards in the landscaping industry for professionals” The APL represents a nationwide network of accredited landscaping companies specialising in garden design, construction, and maintenance. Membership is earned through a rigorous inspection process—one of the toughest in the industry. Members undergo an initial assessment and annual inspections to ensure compliance with health and safety standards, valid insurance, and top-quality work. The prestigious awards for “Decking” are sponsored by the Decking Network. Government backed accreditation scheme As the only landscaping scheme accredited by TrustMark, a government-endorsed initiative, the APL is a trusted symbol of quality and excellence. Homeowners can rely on APL members for professional landscaping services. The APL stands as a symbol of trust, quality, and excellence for homeowners seeking landscaping service 30 Years of Landscaping Excellence is tRead more

Decking Network wrote a new post

Thu, 30 Jan 2025 20:08:16 +0000

Choosing sustainable decking materials Sustainable decking materials and practices: build a greener future As the world shifts toward environmental responsibility, sustainable decking materials are becoming an important choice for homeowners and industry professionals. Choosing eco-friendly options not only reduces environmental impact but also ensures long-lasting, high-quality outdoor spaces. In this guide, we explore the best sustainable decking materials, essential green practices, and the benefits of joining the Decking Network community. Choosing sustainable decking materials is the future. Why choose sustainable decking? Sustainable decking isn’t just a trend, it’s a necessary step towards reducing deforestation, lowering carbon footprints, and minimizing landfill waste. Traditional decking materials often contribute to environmental degradation, but sustainable options help combat these issues while delivering durability and beauty. Key Benefits Eco-Friendly Production: Many sustainable decking materials are sourced responsibly or made from recycled content, reducing the demand for virgin resources. Durability and Longevity: Some composites, modified woods and bamboo decking materials resist rot, mold, and insects, offering a lifespan of 25-50 years. Low Maintenance: Sustainable decks require minimal upkeep, eliminating the need for harsh chemical treatments. Energy-Efficient Manufacturing: Many brands use low-energy processes and recycled materials to create decking solutions that align with green building standards. Eco-friendly decking materials There are several sustainable decking options available, each with unique benefits and technical advantages. Here’s a closer look at some of the best materials for an environmentally responsible deck: Recycled Composite Decking Composed of a blend of reclaimed wood fibres and recycled plastic. Resistant to moisture, fading, and warping, making it ideal for harsh climates. Requires no staining or sealing, reducing chemical use over time. Trex, Millboard and Ecodek are the products that satisfy sound green credentials Modified timber decking These woods are certified by the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) and Programme for the Endorsement of Forest Certification (PEFC). Accoya and Kebony, known for durability and resistance to rot. Natural aesthetics with rich grain patterns and warmth. Bamboo Decking A highly renewable resource due to its rapid growth cycle (mature in 3-5 years). Naturally strong and dense, resisting moisture and pests. Engineered bamboo such as Moso Bamboo can provide additional stability and longevity. Sustainable decking practices Choosing sustainable decking materials is just the beginning, adopting sustainable building practices maximizes environmental benefits while enhancing deck performance. Here are key strategies to follow: Use Certified Materials Always look for FSC or PEFC-certified wood to ensure responsible forestry practices. Check composite brands that prioritize recycled content and sustainable sourcing. Opt for Long-Lasting Materials Solid composites and modified woods and bamboo can extend a deck’s lifespan, reducing waste over time. Preventative treatments and proper installation can significantly increase durability. Choose Non-Toxic Sealants and Finishes Avoid traditional stains and coatings that release volatile organic compounds (VOCs) into the air. Look for water-based, eco-friendly finishes to protect your deck without harming the environment. Owatrol treatments are the most sympathetic to this. Recycle Old Decking If replacing an old deck, consider repurposing wood or recycling composite materials to prevent unnecessary landfill waste. Some manufacturers offer take-back programs for old composite decking. The benefits of joining the Decking Network The Decking Network is more than just an industry resource. It’s a thriving community for professionals, homeowners, and manufacturers dedicated to sustainable decking solutions. Becoming a member provides invaluable benefits, including: Exclusive industry insights Stay ahead of the curve with the latest trends, innovations, and technical advancements in sustainable decking. Access detailed reports on emerging materials, installation techniques, and environmental impact assessments. Expert guidance and support Learn directly from industry experts, engineers, and sustainability advocates. Get recommendations on the best decking materials, finishes, and installation methods for different climates and usage scenarios. Professional networking opportunities Connect with like-minded professionals, including Garden Designers, Landscapers, DeckPro’s, Architects, and manufacturers. Join forums and attend events focused on eco-friendly outdoor solutions like Futurescape Event. Project showcases and case studies Discover innovative projects from around the world that highlight successful sustainable decking applications. Share your own projects to inspire others and gain industry recognition. How to get started with green decking Sustainable decking is the future, and it starts with making informed choices. Here’s how to begin your journey toward a greener outdoor space: Research and select eco-friendly decking materials suited to your needs. Follow sustainable installation practices to maximize efficiency and longevity. Create an environmental policy for your business. Join the Decking Network to stay updated and connect with industry leaders. By choosing sustainable decking, you’re investing in an environmentally responsible future while creating a stunning outdoor space. Join the Decking Network today and become a part of the change! Choosing Environmentally considerate decking When choosing sustainable decking materials, consider the following factors based on perceived public importance: Recycled Content Percentage from high post-consumer and post-industrial recycled plastic and wood fibres reduce waste. Sustainability Certifications matter so Look for FSC (Forest Stewardship Council) or PEFC (Programme for the Endorsement of Forest Certification) approvals. Manufacturing process impact mean that your products energy-efficient production with low emissions and minimal water usage is crucial. Use of Harmful Chemicals is not what this is all about so make sure your products are free from PVC, VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds), and formaldehyde for better air and soil quality. Polyvinyl chloride PVC is considered one of the most environmentally damaging plastics from its creation to its disposal. Durability and Longevity mean a reduced carbon footprint. Choose a long-lasting material to reduce the need for replacements, lowering environmental impact over time. End-of-Life Recycling and Reusability is important, and some brands offer take-back programs to recycle old composite boards into new materials. Resistance to Mold, Rot, and Pests which reduces the need for chemical treatments and extends the deck’s lifespan. Carbon Footprint and Transport Impact can be reduced by using locally sourced materials which reduce transportation emissions and support regional economies. Maintenance and Cleaning Requirements point towards composite decking products. Low-maintenance materials reduce the need for cleaning products such as soap, and harsh chemical cleaners. Aesthetic and Performance Longevity benefits everyone. Decking with uv-resistant and fade-resistant materials maintain their look longer, reducing the urge for early replacements. Decking with the better credentials list of environmentally friendly composite decking brands with a strong presence or manufacturing base in the UK: Trex Trex is renowned for its commitment to sustainability, utilizing an innovative blend of up to 95% recycled materials, including reclaimed wood and plastic waste. The company emphasizes eco-friendly manufacturing processes, reclaiming factory waste, and eliminating the use of harmful chemicals. Trex has been recognized as the most sustainable decking brand for 14 consecutive years. Millboard Millboard focuses on sustainability by producing decking boards using recycled minerals. Their sub-frame system and materials are made entirely from recycled or recyclable plastic, reducing environmental impact. Millboard’s commitment to a greener future is evident in their manufacturing processes and product design. Ecodek Ecodek is a leading UK manufacturer of sustainable composite decking, producing boards made from 95% recycled and sustainably sourced materials. Their products consist of 60% recycled hardwood fibres and 40% recycled plastic, such as milk bottles, and are 100% recyclable. Ecodek’s commitment to eco-friendly practices is evident in their manufacturing processes and product design. Moso Bamboo This speaks for itself as it is made from fast growing grass called bamboo. It has the impact ability of concrete and tensile strength of mild steel. It has a great lifespan and warrants for 25 years. Accoya Accoya wood has many credentials, including being FSC certified, Cradle to Cradle certified. The Platinum certification means that Accoya is safe for people and the environment. Accoya has held the Gold certification for many years. It is Green Star certified too. Accoya is non-toxic and has a low carbon footprint. It is 100% recyclable. Accoya is Class 1 rated for durability. It’s a worthy and important list of the most incredible timber credentials on the planet Kebony Kebony is a durable, eco-friendly wood product made from sustainably sourced timber. The wood is treated with a non-toxic, bio-based liquid that enhances its strength and weather resistance. This treatment improves durability without using harmful chemicals. Kebony’s long lifespan reduces the need for frequent replacements, making it a sustainable choice for outdoor projects Kebony wood is made from sustainably managed forests. This wood is non-toxic during use and disposal. The process produces less carbon dioxide than Brazilian Clear Fell Ipe. Kebony wood has received environmental awards, including the Swan and the Glass Bear. The process increases the wood’s dimensional stability, hardness and is resilient to cold climates. It is a formidable product. These brands actively prioritise environmentally conscious manufacturing processes, use recycled materials, and commit to sustainability in the UK composite decking industry Choosing sustainable deckRead more

Decking Network wrote a new post

Mon, 27 Jan 2025 13:55:46 +0000

Modello decking by Millboard 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 the decking news of the year What is Modello decking by Millboard Modello by Millboard is a revolutionary approach to decking, redefining what outdoor surfaces can achieve. With its two distinctive styles “Linear and Contour”, paired with a broad range of colours, this collection opens up an infinite realm of design possibilities. By simply adjusting the orientation of the same board, you can craft over 50 unique patterns, each radiating its own character and charm. Linear decking pattern decking The Linear board design celebrates the beauty of geometric precision, offering a refined and contemporary look for outdoor environments. Its clean, straight lines provide a sophisticated foundation for decking projects, seamlessly adapting to full-deck layouts, defined zones, or intricate inlay accents. Modello’s Linear versatility encourages bold creativity, transforming ordinary spaces into architectural masterpieces with its sleek, modern charm. Contour decking pattern decking Inspired by the flowing curves of nature, the Contour design brings a gentle, organic rhythm to decking concepts. This pattern creates a sense of movement and grace, making it an ideal choice for zoned areas, decorative inlays, or as a standout centrepiece for an entire deck. With its unique curves and artistic appeal, Contour adds depth and elegance, turning any outdoor space into a truly remarkable and distinctive setting. Designing with Millboard for your garden The modern sophistication of the Linear design decking boards echoe the timeless Greek key motifs. Maybe it’s the flowing, reflective elegance of the Contour style, Modello is an ideal choice for making bold design statements. As a pioneer in the industry, Modello provides unmatched customization options, empowering you to bring even the most imaginative concepts to life. The boards are thoughtfully engineered with subtle geometric variations, mirroring the handcrafted quality of textiles and patterns, and delivering a sense of authentic artistry. Modello reflects Millboards commitment to innovation and inspiring creativity. The vision for Modello is to open a new chapter of self-expression, enabling homeowners and designers to transform outdoor spaces into works of art. This isn’t just decking it’s a canvas for the ultimate in sophisticated creativity. Modello designer decking in Beaconsfield Referenced by excellence and creativity, as well as the Modello boards, the designs are by Karl Harrison. He uses both Linear decking and Contour decking which result in spectacular outcomes. Designed by Karl Harrison to coincide with the launch to showcase this incredible product. A garden with a Millboard Enhanced Grain Limed Oak terrace has optimised the use of Modello. There are two separate areas of Modello, one with Linear and the other with Contour. The Millboard SB Board surrounds these areas, actively framing and highlighting these innovative central features The colours used for the project are Limed oak for the main deck, frame and Contour. The darker brown colour is Antiqued and showcases as the Linear Modello board. Karl said, “This revolutionary decking board will turn the decking world on its head, It really does allow the ultimate in sophisticated decking design”. Location Beaconsfield Materials Millboard Enhanced Grain Modello Contour Modello Linear Structure Read more

Decking Network wrote a new post

Mon, 27 Jan 2025 12:57:09 +0000

Decking in Style for 2025 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 perfectly complement the organic appeal of composite decking, offering a timeless yet modern palette for your outdoor living space. Are you going to be decking in style for 2025 Leading brands like Trex, Millboard, and Grad feature decking collections that effortlessly align with this year’s trend. Here’s how you can create a luxurious, on-trend decking terrace inspired by 2025’s most celebrated colour. Why earthy browns are perfect to style your decking Natural browns and muted tones bring a sense of serenity to your outdoor space. They mirror the raw beauty of nature, creating a seamless transition from your home to the garden. Composite decking brands understand the importance of these hues, offering options that blend beautifully with both modern and traditional settings. The Pantone of the Year 2025 is more than just a trend, it’s a lifestyle statement. It reflects sustainability, grounded living, and understated luxury. These qualities make it a perfect match for composite decking, where practicality meets timeless elegance. Top Brands Offering Pantone-Inspired Decking If you’re planning a terrace update, these premium brands offer decking solutions that align with the earthy elegance of 2025’s colour trend: Brand Colour Matches Trex Ocracoke, Jasper and Biscayne Millboard Antique Oak, Ashwood and Golden Oak Grad Kebony, Bamboo “These shades exude warmth and harmony, while the durable, low-maintenance materials ensure long-lasting beauty”. Pairing Decking Colours with Outdoor Design To achieve a cohesive outdoor space, complement your Pantone-inspired decking with the right accents. Consider neutral outdoor furniture with soft cushions in muted greys or off-whites. Add pops of colour with terracotta planters, warm lighting, and lush greenery. These elements will elevate your decking terrace, turning it into a sanctuary of style and relaxation. A Sustainable and Stylish Choice The Pantone Colour of the Year 2025 speaks to a collective yearning for sustainability and connection with nature. Composite decking aligns with these values by offering eco-friendly materials that mimic natural wood without the upkeep. Leading brands like Trex, Millboard and Grad System UK use responsibly sourced materials, ensuring your outdoor space is both beautiful and environmentally conscious. Stay On Trend with Pantone-Inspired Decking The Pantone of the Year 2025 offers the perfect inspiration for creating a modern, luxurious decking terrace. By choosing hues like Ocracoke from Trex, Antique Oak from Millboard, or Kebony from Grad, you’ll achieve a timeless yet fashionable look. Elevate your outdoor space with these earthy tones and enjoy a terrace that’s stylish, sustainable, and completely on-trend. Now is the time to transform your outdoor living area into a statement of design and elegance. Decking in style for 2025 is an inRead more

Decking Network wrote a new post

Thu, 23 Jan 2025 15:17:22 +0000

Rats ate my cat on my deck Do rats eat cats Rats certainly aren’t interested in your cat and not interested in living under your deck either. Rats hate the wet dry nature of the environment under your deck. One minute its dry and the next its raining which drips through the gaps which rats don’t like. They prefer either being wet or dry and under your deck is both.Rats ate my cat on my deck is an informative post to provide the right advice about rats and decks. Do Rats live under decking in your garden Rats don’t live under your deck unless you provide a sheltered environment for them. If you have a reason for them to be there and they can gain access, then they find their way under your deck. When rats breed, they make their nests in the dry. This means even if they make a nest under your deck they won’t be there for long. Just as soon as it rains, they’ll be off. What do rats hate To repel rats, you can use essential oils such as rosemary, citronella, sage, lavender with peppermint being their most disliked. They don’t like homes that have pets, lack of food, moth balls or chance to make it comfortable. They prefer it if you don’t have bait boxes or traps. What attracts rats to your decking The primary attractor for rats is waste food. The second is a completely covered area such as a shed which provides shelter directly underneath it. You’ll struggle to prevent rats from entering your garden and your deck if it has easy access. Tips to prevent rats under your decking Maybe you should get a cat! Clean up after eating in your garden, place off cuts of cedar wood in the area (Its what moth balls are made of) and cover the ground under your deck with gravel. Regularly use essential oils on and around your garden decking. Building a rat proof deck in your garden You should consider using a fine wire mesh which has been dig into the surrounding ground to 300mm. The mesh can then be fixed into place for the whole of the perimeter. It is recommended to cover the underneath of your deck with a weed membrane which should be covered by 20mm minimum gravel. It’s the gravel they don’t like. You may also consider using trapdoors for access and place bait boxes or traps under the deck. Should you be worried? Absolutely not, ratty and his mates are going to travel anywhere they please and you can’t really stop them. You can dissuade them with the preventative measures in this advice for “dRead more

Decking Network wrote a new post

Tue, 21 Jan 2025 22:04:02 +0000

Trex Deck Builder New York 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 perfectly. If you are searching for a Trex deck builder in New York then this news is for you. Stairs built to perfection by Trex Deck Builder This decking project can boast about its construction, it is sublime and follows state code every step of the way. Situated in Pound Ridge, New York, this decking platform has the most amazing set of steps, you really must see them. Most decks have steps of some kind and this is spectacular; all 54 feet of them. For the European DeckPro’s reading this that a whopping 16.6 metres and a total height gain of over 11 feet (>3.45 metres) The best composite decking materials A decking project may need you to get creative and suggest what decking materials should be used other choose for themselves. This 1420 square feet (132 square metres) of decking is expertly covered in Trex Rocky Harbor composite decking. This product has a sensible 25 year warranty Trex Deck Builder in New York When asked about the project, Kastriot Shytaj said “They are certainly happy with the Trex decking. The clients want to continue the projects with decking the garage roof with the same materials and reconstructing their children’s Playhouse with wood. So, in short, yes, these guys did a great job, and we are really happy with the results”. Professional deck installer for composite decking The Decking Network asked Kastriot to comment on the difficulty of this specific build and to offer a few comments about his business. “I would say that the difficulty factor in this project is 3/10, I say this because we do decking almost every day. Our company is Deck & Fence Contracting Inc. (DFC) and specializes in crafting elegant outdoor spaces that reflect the lifestyle of the homeowner. We design and build custom decks, porches, and pergolas to privacy screens, water curtains and fences. We use a different materials like exotic woods, composite, PVC, and steel. Our designs will turn your vision into reality. We firmly believe that we set trends, update our techniques and our understanding of materials is first class. We create outstanding designs and unparalleled quality for all of our work. We bring sophistication and style to your outdoor living. If you are looking for a Trex Deck Builder New York, then call us today Deck Builder Deck & Fence Contracting Inc Location Westchester County, Pound Ridge, NY Materials Trex Rocky Harbor Composite KeyLink Horizontal Cable Railing Insta we are on Instagram #DeckPro #Trex #deckingdesign #deckRead more

Decking Network wrote a new post

Thu, 16 Jan 2025 10:46:11 +0000

Multi level deck in Hertfordshire 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 platforms step up the garden and cantilever over an existing pond edge. Another platform wraps around the Garden Studio building, level with the inside floor level. The decked areas are disrupted with porcelain paved terraces which wrap around a central planting area. The client has retained the existing pond as part of the new scheme. This forms a focal point where the hard landscaping merges with the new foliage to create something very special. Rose has created a hideaway, a secret haven for the ultimate in relaxing, water and planting make for an exotic and contemporary garden. The Professional Landscaping A Professional Garden designer needs a Professional Landscaper and so a collaboration has been born. Gerald Roche from Agents Green, a stalwart member of the Association of Professional Landscapers (APL) was chosen to build this garden. Design & build challenges were mainly around dealing with the levels; at the lower levels the platform heights needed to fit with the top of the steps leading from the house as well as the height of the existing pond edge, whilst maintaining appropriate step heights. Gerald said “There certainly many different angle and shapes, the elevation certainly kept us on our toes. It was a lovely garden to build and to be honest over the moon to be working with such a talented rising star of the professional garden design community”. The contractor built parts the frame off site and then adjusted on site to be more efficient. The decks were designed around the existing shrubs & trees which had be retained in the planting scheme. Pergola The vertical timber arrangements defined the garden architecture and provided a visual structure that really did work with the scheme. Simple treated timber finished with Dark oak wood stain with Japanese influenced screens are stained to match. The Studio building is stained black and recedes into the planting & blends with the dark wood tones. This garden spoke a language, it’s called exotic… The materials A treated timber frame, structural fixings, recycled plastic posts and deck tape all add to a well thought out structure. The pinnacle of the materials list has to be the Millboard decking. The exposed cut ends of the deck boards did add to the Japanese style Rose Stockley said “Millboard was chosen for this project as iI love its authentic, natural grain look and it has great non-slip qualities; the paths are in use throughout the year so it has to be practical in all weathers”. The garden design Brief An existing inclined garden redesigned with paths and complex terraces which leads to a studio & sun terrace. The client is inspired by the orient and asked for an exotic look with lots of dark timber enveloped in lush planting. The garden was designed with overlapping decks which guide you gradually up the garden, enveloped by exotic planting with views framed by the timber arches and screens. A wraparound deck surrounds the garden studio, and terraces which provide sitting areas to make the most of the light at different times of day. A pond with a bridge, a circular deck, a bamboo grove, evergreen planting with a focus on texture & colour is perfect for an exotic garden. Landscaping Materials Millboard decking London Stone Paving porcelain Read more

Decking Network wrote a new post

Wed, 15 Jan 2025 12:08:39 +0000

Trex Decking Trends for 2025 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 ordered from the range during 2024. Inspired by the mangroves and sandy coasts of Florida, Trex’s Biscayne takes the top spot for most sales. Trex decking trends for 2025 Part of Trex’s Transcend® Lineage® range, which launched in the UK market at the start of 2024, Biscayne has remained popular throughout the year, indicating that the shade is likely to be a favourite with householders planning deck builds in 2025. Trex’s second most-requested shade of 2024 is a contemporary neutral from the firm’s Enhance range, with the sandy undertones and rustic slate grey streaks of Rocky Harbor coming together for a natural, weathered timber feel. In third place was a versatile, easy-to-match medium grey colour called Calm Water, that is also part of the Enhance range. Decking guru Lee Heitzman Lee Heitzman, Trex’s UK and Ireland market manager, said “Biscayne is clearly a hit with UK homeowners, with its colouring and natural grain pattern combining to give the peaceful, timeless look that makes coastal-inspired décor so popular. We’re seeing wider market trends of internet searches for ‘grey decking’ starting to decline, whilst we’re seeing an increase in searches for ‘brown decking’. The Decking Network said “Its about time we had a new colour trend, Brown is on trend and is emerging as the new grey” Questions for Lee at Trex Lee, tell us, which decking gives the design a relaxed feel and which is a contemporary colour. Lee said. “Rocky Harbour also evokes the relaxed, beachy feel of coastal living, while Calm Water offers a more contemporary style. Both colours are established favourites, having also featured among the top three most-requested samples last year”. Are we seeing a shift in consumer demand for a reduced maintenance decking offering? “The superior durability and low maintenance needs of Trex composite decking in comparison to traditional wooden decking is encouraging more UK homeowners to plan outdoor living spaces that can be used for dining, entertaining and wellbeing activities. When’s the best time to plan your new deck? Winter is the perfect time to plan a dream deck to enjoy in 2025, so we’re expecting to continue to see a steady stream of requests for samples over the coming months.” More details about Trex’s product range can be found here. Samples of all its decking lines can be ordered from its UK distributor Arbordeck here. *Company insights from Trex distributor sample sales throughout 20Read more

Decking Network wrote a new post

Tue, 05 Nov 2024 12:01:25 +0000

Paving Site online Magazine 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 to be packed with information, resources, news and reviews. Best of all, it will be 100% free to view. Here’s a taste of what’s to come in Paving Site online Magazine News Updates on all things paving including legislation, standards, regulations, innovations, shows and matters of interest A-Z of Paving in Homes and Gardens The full and complete text of the 2024 book of the same name. Written by Alan Sargent and Gareth Wilson Certificate (theory) in Paving and Associated Works A new and unique course leading to a formal qualification. Industry Insights Contractors’ practical advice, management matters, homeowners guides to contracts and working methods. Training All the latest on training days and types from around the country. Downloadable templates and cross sectional drawings Essential handy information in pictorial format for speedy reading Reviews Tools, equipment, safety gear, books and publications Videos A selection of videos presented by suppliers and manufacturers along with bespoke training videos from Gareth Wilson. Personalities Introducing individuals who have made major contributions to the paving industry over the years. Historical and traditional installation methods Really, they did it “how slow” back in the day… Paving Gallery Hard landscaping projects from landscapers and homeowners across the UK. With links to designers, suppliers, stockists and installers to help inspire your own projects. Paving Awards A new award celebrating the best of landscaping and craftsmanship Guest Authors Paving Site Online Magazine will feature articles and thought leadership pieces from some of the landscape industry’s most respected experts in their field. Expect to hear from (amongst others) Neil Parlsow from Light Visuals, Harvey Keates from Core Landscape Supplies, Nelson Birch from Devon Driveways, Lewis Ashton from Ashley Developments, Jamie Gledhill from Brett and Brad O’Leary from Heritage Builder. Put The Launch Date In Your Diary Launch date is 29th November 2024, for more information about sponsorship opportunities, contribute to the Paving Site ORead more

Decking Network wrote a new post

Thu, 12 Sep 2024 18:47:38 +0000

Grad Kebony decking in Churt Surrey 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 will draw inspiration from Japan and be influenced by its locality. It will be a stunning outdoor space for the family to relax and entertain in. The clients would like a garden that celebrates Japanese garden style whilst also using native and near native UK plants. This will ensure the garden compliments the house and the surrounding countryside. The garden should allow for two seating terraces and be a place to entertain and relax in. The clients family live in London and so this will also be their ‘country’ get away. There should be an area to practise yoga and an area to enjoy a BBQ with friends. Seating areas should allow for around 10 family and guests. The garden should maximise the space and ensure stunning vistas from within the property including the use of outdoor lighting. The design should ensure increased privacy from neighbouring properties using trees to provide a natural screen. Landscaping with Grad System decking Cobham Court Landscaping Ltd are an award winning team of professional Landscapers based in Surrey. They are proud members of the Association of Professional Landscapers with a huge portfolio of beautiful gardens. They have many years experience in building decks so if you are wanting a Grad Kebony decking in Churt Surrey give these guys a call. Designing a garden with sustainable decking The design will create a beautiful and calming space for relaxing and spending time with family and friends. The garden will have at least 2 different areas for dining and relaxing. These will be linked by hard landscaping using carefully chosen materials. Limestone paving, clay pavers and Grad System decking as well as gravel and standing stones chosen specifically for the design. The planting scheme will be architectural, green and lush and include pops of seasonal colour. Our clients like Japanese style gardens and so the planting palette will reflect both Japanese and UK styles. Specimen topiary will be used to create focal points that are viewed from within the house and terraced areas. Careful consideration will be taken to the flow around the garden. The way that you move through the space as well as how the eye is drawn around it. It is important that the planting scheme provides year round structure in the garden with seasonal interest. Planting will also be used to frame views as screened areas for additional privacy where neighbouring properties overlook the garden. The planting should be low maintenance, but the family will ensure they have a regular gardener as they will not always be in the country. The garden will incorporate an irrigation system that will ensure the plants to flourish. The existing levels in the garden will be used to create a flow around the space whilst minimising the volume of earthworks required. Consideration will also be taken when designing to allow for utility areas (for 3 x bins) to be kept from view whilst on the decking area, although they will also be easily accessed. Grad System Decking The designer chose Grad for the decking as this area will be used for yoga as well as seating / relaxing. The Grad is easy to install, and it is also has easy access drainage inspection chambers underneath and repair. Jude said “As a designer I love the natural material and the fact that it has such longevity. I think the product is incredibly tactile and so perfect for bare feet and for practising yoga!” Garden design company Inspired Earth Garden Designer Jude Yeo Landscaping company Cobham Court Landscaping Ltd Professional Landscaper Alastair Smith Photography Julie Skelton Decking system Read more

Decking Network wrote a new post

Wed, 11 Sep 2024 15:40:19 +0000

Hardwood designer decking in Bosham, Sussex 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. Utopia Landscapes are rather clever when it comes to decking. Adam Stewart said. “I loved the challenge of this design, tight curves and absolute detail was key to bring the scheme together” Building a curved deck Curved decking platforms have that air of simplicity about them although the construction is quite different. To create a frame that’s curved is no mean feat, its detailed and complicated. Couple this with current regulations makes for a challenge. Each and every board has curved cuts to form the perfect circumference. This style of decking is time consuming, expensive and for serious decking pro’s. Decking in your garden The curved deck that takes centre stage in this scheme is worked seamlessly with the paving. The curved cuts in this part of the project are a testimony to the accuracy of the professional landscapers at Utopia Landscapes. Adam certainly knows how to employ talent… Adam from Utopia said. “Meeting the finished levels required detailed setting out, it wasn’t easy and that curved decking frame much more than I anticipated” Utopia builds garden decking Established in 2010 Utopia Landscapes has been professionally designing and building gardens at the highest level. They are members of the Association of Professional Landscapers which is the UK’s leading Association for Landscapers. These professionals build gardens in all styles based in West Sussex and serving the local area. They are multiple winners of some serious accolades from within the Landscaping Industry. Client feedback for a deck well built “We hope you like the photos showing the garden in Spring, and now. We are delighted with it. Nicole’s planting scheme is fantastic”. Mr and Mrs P Hardwood decking materials The local decking material supplier for Utopia Landscapes is Roundwood of Mayfield. These guys are based in Mayfield, East Sussex. They supplied the following materials – Support posts 100mm x 100 Beams and Joists 150 x 47 UC4 treated and C24 structurally graded Structural fixings 6.5 x 150 Stainless steel Decking 140 x 19 Cumaru hardwood decking Decking screws 5 x 50 A2 stainless decking screw T25 Garden design and landscaping in West Sussex Utopia Landscapes offer a complete service from professional garden design to the landscaping. They have a well trained in house employed team of landscapers and have been in the industry for over 10 years. If you are lookingRead more

Decking Network wrote a new post

Sun, 01 Sep 2024 12:18:22 +0000

What is the best garden 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 its best. There are far too many garden design styles, materials and colour pallets where there is only one winner. If you read this helpful guide, you may find the garden you are looking for… Top Tip “Start your new garden with a well thought out garden design, then divide it into manageable projects” Party garden or tranquil retreat… If you want to enjoy the space on your own or with a limited number of others, then it’s quite a simple one. Clear the space , build a small decking terrace in your favourite spot and then sow wildflower seed everywhere else. This would make for a perfect space to be surrounded by nature, colourful flowers and help the local ecology. Birds, bees and Pollinating insects of many varieties love garden like this. If you would prefer a space to entertain then you need a cooking area, a dining area and a relaxing area. Depending on how complex this arrangement of spaces has been designed, you may find that a series of deck terraces can be an easy solution. Decking copes very well with changes in elevation, curves, slopes and areas for planting or water features. What is the best garden isn’t what your mates have got, it probably isn’t what you’ve seen on the TV or in a hotel court yard whilst on holiday… The best garden is your garden and with the right help it’s up to you how you achieve it. Top Tip “Choose your favourite spot and create a seating area, choose a sufficient space for a table and chairs for a formal space or lounge style sofas for the ultimate in relaxing. A decking terrace is the perfect solution for this space. ” How to afford the best garden Affording a new garden will cost much more than most will consider. Design fees alone may cost upwards of 15% of your total investment. A Professionally designed and Landscaped garden will have costs starting from £30,000 plus vat with many costing much more than that. This is with respect to a completely new garden in the region of 70 sq. m or so. It would include a new lawn with drainage, a new patio or decking terrace, paths, planting beds, irrigation, lighting too. Read more to find out some hot tips on how to afford the best garden. Maybe you could divide the garden into projects, do one at a time. Start with the hard landscaping as this gives you a sensible and usable section of your garden. Top Tip “Surround your new decking terrace with planting, if you want an almost instant impact try wildflower turf or seed ” It’s far more than a garden Your garden is often seen from all angles of your property and you probably didn’t even notice. That glance in the evening when you draw the curtains, or from the kitchen whilst preparing dinner. It is often taken for granted that “it’s only a garden”; if you agree with that then you are so, so wrong. Your garden can be a place of your favourite music and the heart ‘n soul of a party. It may also be a place of absolute tranquillity surrounded by nature. Ultimately your garden is a living entity which evolves every day. It matures over the years which increases in value. It is a canvas which you have impressed upon it with your lifestyle. This installation of lifestyle art, which you see every day, has a positive bearing on your life. If it’s a monosyllabic run down empty space with no heart and soul, no colour, or anything beautiful to admire you should reconsider this immediately. It may have a detrimental affect on your wellbeing. If you have created even the simplest of usable zones, surrounded it with simple planting and furnished it with seating and a BBQ then they joy you will get every time you see it will be priceless. Top Tip “Get some lighting in the area, warm white is best for that relaxing feel. Place your lights in amongst the planting which cast shadows which move in the breeze. For that modern party feel use daylight bright white, festoon lighting is the perfect choice for this garden.” Your favourite part of the garden I created a simple covered area in my courtyard, it’s made from pine and sits over the corner of my decking terrace. It can be used it all year around; its lit and has a patio heater too. I can sit outside in the rain and also when it’s hot as the roof keeps us protected. It has a sedum living roof to attract the pollinators, it adds to the ecology more than most appreciate. Top Tip “Decking + lighting + planting = the perfect start for any garden” How big should my new decking platform be 3.6 metres deep should be the minimum and as wide as you like makes for the best decking terrace. It will easily accommodate a couple of sofas and occasional tables. It does depend upon how much space you have; your local designer or deck pro should advise Go on, have a deck, you deserve it If you want the best in decking for your project then Trex® and Millboard® offer the best composite colours, textures, performance and warranties between 25 and 50 years. Grad systems UK® with Accoya®, Kebony® and Moso Bamboo offer the best in natural timber which are sustainable and having warranties of between 25 and 50 years. If you can’t stretch your investment to these products then I would miss out on the “Have this composite as its cheaper” optios and go straight for a smooth Pine decking option. This when constructed professionally will easily last over 20 years. What is the best garden is a helpful guRead more

Decking Network wrote a new post

Fri, 23 Aug 2024 10:59:20 +0000

How to set out your decking frame There are many ways you can set out your frame. When designing your frame, you must use these standard calculations to ensure the weight loading placed on top of it is supported sufficiently. The design of your decking must include the support posts, beams, joists and decking. The support required is 1.5kN per square metres for an evenly distributed load. So if you would like to know “How to set out your decking frame” do read on… What are the regulations for decking design The regulations are derived from BS5268-7.1 which demonstrate the calculations within which you should design your decking structure. There are also wider regulations called Euro Codes (EC) and this EC5 code pertains directly to timber construction. (EC5 is derived from the existing British Standard) If you are providing a service where you are building a decking structure you must observe these standards and adhere to them. In short, this protects both the client (end user) and also the person building the deck. It enables the deck builder to provide an efficient service and use the correct number of materials. It also protects the client if something goes wrong as the structure will be judged by these standards. This helpful decking guide assumes the following information Dimensions of the decking are 3.6 metres deep and 3.6 metres wide It assumes that the decking manufacturer has specified 400mm joist centres Beams and joist timbers used are 150mm x 47mm All timbers are structurally graded C24 The best treatment is to Use Class UC) 4 Posts are 100mm x 100mm (Best in HDPE which is recycled plastic) Structural fixings are warranted for exterior use such as 150 x 6.5mm Carpenters Mate Please note that there are many different sizes of decking platform and the decking frame details in this guide are only for a 3.6m x 3.6m low level frame. For the free download guide for decking structure design go here Where do I place my Support Posts Your support posts must be designed to support the beam. If you look at the span tables it clearly sets out where the posts must be placed. An example being that if your beam centres (this is the distance between the beams) are 1.8 metres. You can’t span your joists over 3.32 metres so by using the span tables we adopt 1.8 metres for the beams because this is at the centre of the structure and will spread the load evenly. You could use 195 x 47 which is able to span up to 4.11 metres but in most UK decking structures being close to the ground height is an issue. So now we have a structure with Beams set at 1.8 metres we can use the tables to find our maximum clear span of the joist. In this case it is 1.87 metres Beam centres at 1.8 metres means that your posts should be no more than 1.87m centre to centre. Helpful tip “If you find you have posts on every joists you may consider more beams” Where do I put my Beams The beams are covered in the above Support Posts section. The design considers the beams in conjunction with the Support Posts. The beams can be placed in a position to enable the joists to sit on top of the beams or be fitted to the side of them. If height is an issue, then you should fit the joists to the side of the beams. If height is not an issue you then you may fit the joists on top of the beams. How to set out your decking frame is only a simple guide, if you would like someone to design your decking structure contact a pro who will design your deck and cover all regulations. Where do I put my Joists If you read your decking manufacturer’s instructions it may be read that the joist centres must be set out at 400mm centres. This means that the centre of one joist can be measure to the next joist centre as 400mm. Your joists can span between the beams, or you can use them as single pieces and span from one side of the structure to the other. The detail in “How to set out your decking frame” This is a simple demonstration for how to use the regulations for a simple decking platform. If you need a perimeter trim detail, laying patterns or a more complex arrangement then you must consider the structure underneath as part of your primary design. You may require more joists to form the structure to enable a certain pattern of decking. Don’t wait until is built to then decide you would like further detail as the joists won’t be in the right place. If you need someone to design your decking structure for you click here. If you would like more information whether to use decking tape or not read this https://Read more

Decking Network wrote a new post

Wed, 07 Aug 2024 16:16:36 +0000

Trex decking in Longfield Kent 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 to make way for this stylish new deck. Composite decking ideas near me Browns landscape and decking Ltd are based Bexley in Southeast London. They creatively design and build decking projects in the surrounding area. The talented Roger Brown, award winning, has been building decks for decades. The decking design ideas by Roger are creative and exciting. Roger said “I love the new colours of the Trex Signature range. You have to hand it to them, that Ocracoke looks superb. I think it’s because of its warm and rich colours, its realistic too”. Any homeowner lucky enough to have their deck design ideas brought to life by Roger will have made the right choice. Balustrade for decking Frameless glass balustrades are becoming a style trend for many decking terraces. Any platform over 600mm high is required to have a balustrade installed by a professional. LED lighting features in this simple arrangement. Roger’s balustrade was supplied by FH Brundle for the high quality and expert service. All confirming to part K and best industry standards which makes for an exceptional install. The client said “Really great job by Roger and Luke. Totally professional and did a great job. Exactly how I imagined it would look. If you want decking, these are the guys to contact. Mrs S N from Longfield in Kent”. Trex composite decking The world leading brand of composite decking is Trex®. Expertly manufactured using 95% recycled materials and has a 25 or 50 year warranty. Installed by professionals and admired by millions of homers the world over. The have all the bases covered from your entry level as Basic as you like to the high end realistic looking Signature range Ocracoke®. Trex decking is a trouble free decking product and works in all garden situations. Trex decking in Longfield Kent If you are looking for a Trex decking in Longfield Kent, you can find us here. http://www.brownslandscape.co.uk Designer – Roger Brown Deck Builder – Browns Landscape and decking Ltd Decking SupplRead more

Decking Network wrote a new post

Sat, 29 Jun 2024 11:01:40 +0000

Composite decking ideas in New Malden Trex decking installer near me Trex composite decking installed in a beautiful garden in New Malden by decking experts at Thames-Side decking. For decking ideas near you in new Malden look no further than these guys, led by Oliver Davies. Trex Rainier decking in New Malden One of the latest decking material created by Trex is called “Rainier” and it’s from the Trex Transcend® Lineage™ range. It has a 50 year warranty and unmatched when compared to other decking brands. Composite decking designer chosen by client Oliver Davies was chosen from several other local companies as he offered a comprehensive decking service. His 3D decking designs impressed the client and with such detailed specification and quotation made it difficult for the client to say no. Oliver said “The client wanted the best decking in the UK, so I had really only one choice. Trex® for me is a no brainer, it’s great to install and with a 50 year warranty gives the customer peace of mind for a lifetime in their garden. For me it’s the colour of the boards and their inherent durability, there’s nothing to compare Trex® too.” The decking detail The posts, beams and joists were designed to conform the current “Best Industry Practice” and by following current regulations. There were also planning considerations which had to be followed as there are several laws and bylaws that must be adhered too. The decking is designed to give the clients a usable garden terrace, it offers great use of space with a simple and stylish design. Editor “Loving this project, that central line breaker board looks perfectly placed to line up with the centre of the step arrangement, great job” Problems solved by using composite decking Oliver said that when removing the old deck and excavating there was two skips of “builders rubbish” under the deck. Plenty of waste concrete that had to be broken out certainly wasn’t accounted for but it was removed because it would be detrimental to the project. The Decking Network asked Oliver about the excavation. “So, Oliver, why couldn’t you leave the old rubbish and concrete under the new deck? His answer was perfect, he said “You need to have as much airflow as possible under the deck which enhances the longevity and gives the client the best return on their investment”. Feedback review They were very pleased with the deck and said. “I can highly recommend Oliver and his team at Thames-side Decking”. Project details Location New Malden, London Material used Trex Transcend® lineage™ Rainier, Trex Protect® joist tape , Trex Hideaway®, UC4 treated Joists Designer Oliver Davies Clients Mr and Mrs TJ Contractor Thames-Side Decking If you are looking for composite decking ideas in New Malden do contact Oliver directly here Oliver@thamesRead more

Decking Network wrote a new post

Sun, 28 Apr 2024 18:48:59 +0000

Tips and Ideas for your new deck How to choose the right deck boards This is an informative collection of helpful Tips and Ideas for your new deck. The right decking boards are the products that you like the look and feel of. You may wish to consider the warranty and the maintenance requirements. There are many different decking boards, pine is the most popular in the UK due to cost. TOP TIP – if you are using a wood deck then please use a smooth finish. It’s less slippery, far easier to maintain and lasts much longer than grooved decking Modified woods come next, these are not treated boards but instead have been modified at a cellular level. Accoya is at the top of the tree here with many different profiles and finishes available. A close second is Kebony, a beautiful rich brown colour, this is a far better choice than any hardwood. Bamboo is making a statement in the decking world. It has the tensile strength of mild steel and impact resistance of concrete. Bamboo decking by GRAD systems UK is a sensible choice for a long lasting, durable and has an incredible framing system. Hardwoods have become a no! This being due to their poor environmental credentials and lack of demand. They are expensive and cost more than most decks for a professional installation. The winner is the composite decking boards. Usually with sensible warranties and matching components. They have a good selection of colours and are much easier to maintain than a natural timber. The better brands are certainly the most popular and as far as most Deck Pro’s are concerned are Trex® and Millboard®… There are others How to build your decking structure Your decking structure is the frame that supports the decking. If you are building your frame it must comply with the current regulations and planning considerations. It is advisable to use a Deck Pro to build your deck but if you have to DIY then you’ve found the right place. The Decking Network wants you to build your deck correctly and is on hand to help where possible. Check out the Networks help decking information here TOP TIP – employ a designer to draw your frame for you Your decking frame is best build from a UC4 (Use Class) treated structure of timber. This comprises of Beams and Joists. Your Beams are there to support your Joists and it’s your beams that the posts are fixed to. There are strict tables that you should follow when building your decking frame. The frame must be built to withstand an evenly distributed load of 1.5kN for domestic use. Don’t worry if you don’t understand this as there are a set of tables for download here. You may opt for a fully plastic support structure or even an aluminium structure. These have different span tables and your supplier should advise you. What support posts are best The best support posts are materials that don’t rot. If you must use UC4 treated posts, 100mm x 100mm is the minimum size set into firm ground and at least 40Kgs of concrete for a low-level deck. Post sleeves and other silly ideas on compound early rotting and I really would bother with them. if you want the longest lasting wooden posts you should char them before concreting in. FH Brundle supply plastic support post material in 3.6 metre lengths of 95mm x 95mm which are perfect for this job. You can also use concrete or steel posts, they are much harder to use but do last for ever TOP TIP – If you don’t know you should ask a Deck Pro How do I fix my decking If you are using pine, Accoya or Kebony the best screws are stainless steel. Try Carpenters Mate Bugle head screws as these are fit for purpose and will last. Predrill the holes first to avoid the wood splitting and make sure they line up by careful marking out. If you are using a composite decking product then you MUST use the manufacturers fixing system. Millboard and Trex both have their own specialist fixings and if you don’t use them you will invalidate the warranty. How do I look after my decking This is another “What does the manufacturer advise”? If it’s a natural decking material then look no further than Owatrol products. These guys are specialist in exterior decking maintenance products from strippers, cleaners to oils and protective coatings If you would like more Tips and Ideas for your new deck then contactRead more

Decking Network wrote a new post

Wed, 24 Apr 2024 19:21:05 +0000

Trex designer decking in Catworth, Cambridgeshire Trex designer decking by Composite Decking Lifestyles Trex designer decking in Catworth Cambridge designed and expertly installed by Composite Decking Lifestyles. Their use of Trex® composite decking to create this stylish space is a testimony to the quality of the product. This has maximised the use of the space for the homeowner because it’s stylish. The design has proven its practical use for the homeowner’s social lifestyle. Trex designer decking in Catworth Cambridgeshire is one for the shortlist. Decking designer in Cambridgeshire Carl Boreham’s’ creative concept won the design phase of the project. The geometric design complimented the shapes in the architecture of the building. The clients said, “The outdoor space which is both aesthetically appealing and practical for us to host regular social events outside.” The clients enjoyed the colour arrangement and great choice offered by Trex®. Trex composite decking materials Contemporary and modern, angles and parallel lines are the brief for this project. Trex Transcend® Gravel Path boards with a Trex Transcend® Island Mist border is the perfect combination. Standalone furniture with integrated features such as electrical sockets, USB points, Bluetooth speakers and heating added to the garden. Deck lighting in your deck Lighting your Trex deck adds that evening touch of sparkle. The party with friends, the BBQ and the fun are all brought together with lighting. It adds a safe dynamic for the garden and looks amazing at the same time. Carl Boreham said. “Our experience in transforming gardens means we are able to help you with the design if required and we pride ourselves in providing an interactive customer experience. We engage with clients during the decision-making process in order to provide them with the best use of the space available. We are passionate about making gardens look and feel like a beautiful place to spend time, rain or shine”. Trex designer decking in Catworth, Cambridgeshire Composite Decking Lifestyles are a professional decking company. Well versed in many construction skills and love building gardens with decking. They are Based in Cambridgeshire and will be delighted to receive your call on 07968 729 568 or email them directly here Designer Carl Boreham Location Catworth, Cambridgeshire Contractor Composite Decking Lifestyles Are you looking for a Trex designer decking in Catworth, Cambridgeshire. Just incase your consider a new deck for your garden, it may be worth you knowing that these guys are TrexPro’s.Read more

Decking Network wrote a new post

Tue, 02 Apr 2024 19:53:40 +0000

Sustainable decking for Royal Opera House 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 Royal Opera House. Stanton Williams Architects choose Grad System decking for Royal Opera House Sustainability, durability, stability and longevity are all reasons why Stanton Williams Architects specified Kebony. Kebony is a softwood that has been modified in such a way that the natural wood becomes harder and more durable than most other timbers used for decking. The Architects also wanted a seamless installation, a system of clean lines and no fixings visible. The only answer to solve this problem was presented by Alfresco Flooring with the Grad System® which works seamlessly with Kebony. Kebony and Grad System is the perfect combination for decking When searching for a decking system that is designed for ease of installation, is long lasting and durable, Grad wins. Grad System decking is a series of aluminium joists with special clips that fix underneath the boards. This means there are no fixings on show, and you can produce a real luxury floor as your decking. The system has been available across Europe for many years and has been championed by the flooring specialists at Alfresco Flooring. Alfresco Flooring were responsible for showcasing sustainable decking for the Royal Opera House. Alfresco Floors are specialist commercial decking installers These guys are specialists in Landscaping Systems and Innovators of technology. They have been at the forefront of decking installations across London since 1997 which is incredible. They have tens of thousands of square metres of exceptional projects in their portfolio and are the UK’s leading high end commercial decking company Chris Short, Marketing Director at Alfresco Floors commented “We are incredibly proud to have played a part in the redevelopment of one of London’s most iconic buildings. The use of innovative technology and materials such as the GRAD decking system and Kebony wood were essential to the success of the stunning creative space, and we are certainly excited to see the huge variety of events and activities that will take place on the deck for years to come.” The Royal Opera House has been open to the public since its refurbishment from September 2018. Further information about Grad System decking in the UK If you require further information about Grad System deckinRead more

Decking Network wrote a new post

Mon, 01 Apr 2024 16:50:42 +0000

Trex Signature sets new standard for outdoor living 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 in every Trex Pro’s arsenal offering the best composite decking in the UK. Marking a watershed moment for the decking industry, Trex Signature establishes the next category of composite decking, pioneering a whole new level of aesthetic authenticity. Using a notably different process than any other Trex product, Signature decking offers the ease of maintenance and high performance of WPC with a proprietary shell formulation that delivers the most realistic representation of wood attained to date whilst offering exceptional durability supported by an industry-leading 50-year residential warranty. Trex sets the new standard for composite decking Like all Trex products, boards in the Signature collection comprise a solid core and shell technology. This is for enhanced protection against the weather. It also means the boards won’t rot, split, fade or stain and will never need oiling or painting. Trex composite decking boards also offer a sustainable alternative to traditional timber decking. These boards are made of 95 per cent recycled materials because the company never felled a tree in its 25 year history. Trex Signature is perfect for your outdoor living Available in two nature-inspired colors, a weathered grey and walnut brown. Trex Signature establishes a new luxury tier in the brand’s decking lineup as its top offering. Ocracoke offers a rich brown hue that evokes a secluded island sheltered by sandy dunes and marshy shores. While Whidbey provides a sleek grey alternative that transports users to misty cliffs. Commenting on the launch of the new collection, Marie Ennals, marketing manager at Arbor Forest Products said: “Trex has become synonymous with quality composite decking, and the Signature collection is Trex’s crowning achievement in a long legacy of decking innovation, with pinnacle performance that outlasts and outperforms other decking boards, all without compromising on sustainability and aesthetics. “We know from our network of installers that shades inspired by nature remain in high demand. We’re delighted to be bringing new options to the UK in perfect time for the 2024 decking season.” Signature is the premium brand of decking in the UK The launch of the Signature collection follows the overwhelming success of Lineage, an expansion of Trex’s most popular range. Trex Transcend Lineage also offers a 50-year residential warranty with decking boards available. They are available in three shades – Rainier, Biscayne and Jasper – that feature a deep and realistic wood grain effect for the beauty of wood with the ease of composite. For more information, visit Arbordeck and followRead more

Decking Network wrote a new post

Tue, 19 Mar 2024 21:46:04 +0000

APL Awards 2024 Winners Huge congratulations to the APL Awards 2024 Winners on behalf of the Decking Network. The judges had a tough job choosing the winners of the 2024 APL awards. The competition was incredible and with more entries than before breaking all records. The APL 2024 award for the Category £65,000 to £80,000 “The winner is” County Garden Management with “South Kensington Courtyard” (Gold and Winner) “Huge congratulations, so well deserved and well-done from the Decking Network” HG Landscapes Woburn Ltd with “Terraced drought tolerant garden” (Runner up and Gold) Greenlink Outdoor Living Ltd with “Pretty in pink” (Runner up – Silver Gilt) HG Landscapes Woburn Ltd with “School Lane” (Runner up – Silver) LG Landscapes Limited with “Victorian School House” (Runner up – Silver) This is a collection of some of the very best professional Landscaping companies in the UK. They have proved themselves and are elevated amongst their peers. These finalists show how garden should be constructed at the highest level. “The Association are very proud to have them as Members”. Judging an APL professionally landscaped garden These awards are not awarded lightly. Every garden that reaches the final round is inspected and scrutinised by the independent judges. It’s no easy task, everything is measured and compared to the designs. Regulations are consulted for the correct application and construction. Planting plans have to reflect the scheme laid before them… “The Decking Network is proud to be the category sponsor for projects that are £65,000 to £80,000”. Editors Note, “Merry Christmas Phil”… Some 560 plus attended the event at The Brewery in central London last Friday 8th March. The food was amazing and the Decking Network table was attended by the lovely people from Grad Systems UK, Arborforest, FH Brundle, Pace and Millboard The afternoon was blessed with the pre dinner speaking by TV Gardeners World Frances Tophill. A talented horticulturalist, author of maRead more

Decking Network wrote a new post

Sun, 11 Feb 2024 22:05:40 +0000

To regulate or not to regulate 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 they should be constructed. So the question is ” To regulate or not to regulate “. If a gas engineer built a deck Consider walking into a room with 100 Gas Safe Engineers and asking them a question. The question would be about performing a certain function. Assuming all of them answered honestly then their answers would all be the same. If you dig deeper and ask as to why, they would all say “That’s what we are taught in college and they are the regulations”. If a deck was built by a Deck company, Landscaper or Builder Consider walking into a room with 100 deck builders and asking them a question. The question would be about span tables or at what interval to place the support posts. Assuming all of them answered honestly then their answers would all be different. If you dig deeper and ask why then the answers would be just as varied. Such answers maybe “that’s the way I’ve always done it”, or “That’s how my dad taught me, but that’s ok because he was a cabinet maker for 40 years”. Is it time for regulation I would suggest that’s a “YES”. There should be one common ground that all decking platforms are constructed. One that can’t be scrutinised or argued against. There should be a sensible method which details the type of timber, fixings, posts support and the like. There should also be a detailed method which when asked questions about it, the answer by everyone is the same. What’s your maximum span Lets consider a UC4 treated joist with structural grading of C24 and the dimensions are 150 x 47mm. Assuming a joist placed within or over a beam such that the clear span of the joist is 3.32 metres, what are the support post centres along the beam? If you don’t know the exact answer or have to guess would think that there should be a definitive answer? One may also ask the question “is 3.32m too much of a span”, or “That’s too short as I normally span much more”. The same could be said for setting out your beams or any other element of the structure. What’s all the fuss about The intention of a domestic decking structure is to provide a platform to support the decking. This must be to support an evenly distributed load on it, this being people. This load is calculated as 1.5kN/sqm. It must also consider the dead load of the material its constructed from and also the items on it such as BBQ, furniture and planters. This is the most important element and to ensure the structure is built to withstand this load it must be constructed in a particular fashion. British and European Standard Believe it or not there are strict standards promulgated in the UK and the EU. They demonstrate the calculations for span tables. These tables are for your Posts, Beams and Joist centres. So, when you follow these tables you culminate in a correctly built structure and one that you can demonstrate its intended use. By following these tables there shouldn’t be any reason for the structure to fail. How do I find out more You can either purchase a copy of BS5268-7.1 at great expense and unless you recently graduated in a maths degree it would be a pointless exercise. The easiest way would be for you to enrol on a deck training course called “Decking, All you need to know”. The course is LANTRA certified and held at the TASK Training Academy. The question The above said and done, do you think therRead more

Decking Network wrote a new post

Tue, 06 Feb 2024 22:03:22 +0000

The APL Awards 2024 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 we can’t wait to see who is unveiled as category winner. The APL Awards 2024 Finalists These finalists have all been scrutinised by independent judges who have inspected each and every garden. Not everyone made the short list and the companies that have should be very proud to be recognised as one of the best landscapers in the UK. Greenlink Outdoor Living Ltd with “Pretty in pink” HG Landscapes Woburn Ltd with “School Lane” HG Landscapes Woburn Ltd with “Terraced drought tolerant garden” LG Landscapes Limited with “Victorian School House” County Garden Management with “South Kensington Courtyard” This is a stellar line-up of professional Landscaping companies whose untiring dedication and devotion have elevated them amongst their peers. These finalists embody the spirit of originality, determination, and achievement, showcasing gardens with such professionalism. “The Association must be very proud to have them as Members”. These awards are to celebrate the accomplishments, for their efforts to be recognised and passion for professional landscaping to be rewarded at the highest level. Celebrating success The Decking Network looks forward to celebrating with these industry greats and to cheer them on for their outstanding achievements. Supporting the Decking network will be our amazing Ambassadors. Grad System UK with the most advanced decking system in Europe FH Brundle for a massive choice of decking balustrade solutions Arborforest with Trex decking, the worlds largest deck brand. Owatrol UK for the very best in Deck maintenance products The Association of Professional Landscapers The Association of Professional Landscapers (APL) is a landscaping specialist group within the HTA. Formed over 25 years ago, it continually strives to become the leading authority for domestic landscaping in the UK. The association is an operating partner for Trustmark a government endorsed accreditation scheme. The Association of Professional Landscapers (APL) comprises accredited landscape companies who design, build and maintain gardens throughout the UK. The rigorous inspection process to join is one of the toughest within the industry. Along with the initial inspection, each member is re inspected regularly to ensure each member has up to date insurances, complies with health and safety law and their quality of work is to the highest possible. The APL is the only landscaping scheme operator of TrustMark, a Government endorsed initiative that promotes professionalRead more

Decking Network wrote a new post

Mon, 05 Feb 2024 21:31:18 +0000

Decking Installer in Arundel 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 design and build service. The decking team from Sussex Say a warm welcome to Rod and Debs Windrow from Ferring in West Sussex. A family run business that loves to live outdoors and enjoys working with clients to release the potential within their gardens. They have a holistic thought process when it comes to designing your decking. To them its more than a deck, it’s a lifestyle choice and one that will work in your personal garden space. Their decking designs are inspirational can work within the garden kitchen under a stylish canopy within your beautiful planting scheme. Millboard is their choice decking material… its beautiful and perfect for the gardens they design. The Decking Network said. “If I lived in Worthing, Arundel, Chichester, Hove or Brighton I’d certainly give these lovely folk a call.” Garden Canopies in Arundel Garden canopies are the perfect choice to accompany your decking. Couple that with a garden kitchen and you’ll have the perfect place to live outside. They provide the best quality canopies and shades, kitchens too. From concept though full design, they create amazing outside garden spaces. A recent client feedback wrote “Faultless service from lovely people! They opened their showroom on a Sunday at very short notice to show us around and showed us amount of experience in all aspects of our garden project. They supplied and fitted a Renson canopy, with excellent advice and communication throughout. Fantastic result and I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend them.” Bio Garden House Design is an award-winning landscape & outdoor styling company with over 25 years’ experience. Working with both domestic and commercial clients, based from our showroom offices in Ferring, West Sussex. When building and designing gardens, we love to include decks! They are beautiful and help you live outdoors for longer because they are durable and hardwearing. We built our first deck in 1997 and have never looked back. Our specialist decking team are happy to work with all decking materials, from wood through to high quality composites, and have been Millboard Approved installers since the scheme started. Passionate about creating great outdoor spaces, we’ve taken the time to hand-pick a portfolio of products tried and tested. In more recent years becoming industry experts for louvered canopies and outdoor kitchens. We are the UK Premium Ambassador for Renson. Proud members of Association of Professional Landscapers, British Association of Landscape Institute Supplier, Society of Garden Designers Affiliated, plus accredited with SMAS, Citation and HTA. Decking designer and installer in Arundel If you are looking for inspiration for your garden project, give these guys a call… Company Name Garden House Design Ltd Professions Decking Design & Installation, Landscaping, Design & Build, Canopies and Outdoor Kitchens Location Ferring Region West Sussex Website: www.gardenhousedesign.co.uk Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GardenHouseDesign/?locale=en_GB Instagram: Read more