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Timber garden decking installation
Benchmark Paving provides timber garden decking installation, with site visits from our Caterham base. We discuss how the deck will be used, where it will sit and how it connects to the house and garden before agreeing the work.
A deck is a complete structure, not just a board finish. The supports, frame, fixings, drainage and access for care need to suit the site. We assess those practical details alongside the appearance you want.
Decisions to make before choosing the boards
Position and everyday use
Plan room for furniture, movement and access to the garden. Consider shade, leaf fall and how the deck will be cleaned throughout the year.
Timber and finish
Discuss the timber specification and its suitability for the intended use. Compare the appearance, treatment and ongoing care requirements of the proposed boards.
Frame and supporting work
The supporting structure needs assessment even when only the visible boards look worn. The proposed construction and fixings should be included in the quotation.
Edges, steps and access
Discuss changes in level, entrances and any guarding that may be needed. Connections to paving and other garden features should be planned together.
Design around the site and future maintenance
We inspect the location, ground, access and proposed finished height. Airflow beneath the deck and a suitable route for water form part of the design discussion; the timber specification should reflect where each component will be used.
A shaded or leaf-covered deck may need more frequent cleaning. Surface growth and debris can affect grip, so the intended maintenance routine matters alongside the board finish.
If decking is part of a wider garden change, coordinate it with landscaping, fencing and routes through the garden before work starts.
Decking and garden seating ideas
Use the existing decking photographs to consider layouts and connections to the garden. The structure and specification for your property will follow its own assessment.
What affects a timber decking quote?
Deck size, timber, height, supporting work, steps, guarding and access all affect cost. Removing an old deck or repairing unsuitable supporting construction can add work that a board-only price leaves out.
Share photographs, approximate measurements and how you want to use the area. The quotation should identify the structure, boards, fixings, removal work and finish being provided.
From site visit to completed work
1. Survey the space
Review the proposed position, height, access and existing ground or deck.
2. Agree and construct
Confirm the layout, timber specification, supporting work and quotation before installation.
3. Explain ongoing care
Discuss inspection, cleaning and treatment appropriate to the chosen timber and finish.
Frequently asked questions
Can you replace boards on an existing deck?
The frame and supports need checking first. Replacing boards alone may be unsuitable where the structure is damaged or does not meet the requirements of the proposed work.
Will timber decking need maintenance?
Yes. Clear debris and surface growth, inspect the structure and fixings, and follow the timber supplier’s guidance on cleaning and treatments.
Do I need planning permission?
Decking height, size, position and property restrictions can affect permission requirements. Check the Planning Portal decking guidance and your local planning authority before committing to the design.
How do I choose between decking and a patio?
Compare the look you want, finished height, ground conditions, care requirements and full construction cost. We can discuss both options during a site visit.
Discuss your project
Tell us what you have in mind, the project location and any useful details about the current surface. Our team visits customers at their properties.
Call 0800 696 5894, 0208 485 6462 or 0746 460 7167.
Where we work
Our team is based in Caterham and travels to customers in Warlingham, Oxted, Croydon, Bromley, Orpington and East Grinstead. Contact us to check your project location and arrange a visit.