A timber deck adds tremendous functionality and enjoyment to your outdoor space, but unexpected costs when project planning can stop the party before it’s even started.
The area covered by your timber deck will be the biggest factor when it comes to cost, but the type of wood chosen and whether you’ll require installation will also impact your project price.
Including all raw materials and installation costs, expect to pay around £120 per m² for a premium hardwood deck. A mid-range quality softwood deck will cost in the region of £80 per m², whilst a lower-end tanalised softwood deck will cost in the region of £60 per m². For a composite deck, costs are around £100 per m².
However, as mentioned, these are ballpark figures – there are many variables that can affect your project price. For a quick quote for your project, get in touch — or take a look below for more details.
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Timber decking costs in the UK per m²: a full breakdown
Choosing a species
When it comes to choosing a timber deck, there are many timber species. Hardwoods sit at the premium price point, whereas tanalised softwoods are more budget friendly.
- Higher-end timber: A hardwood like Iroko, European oak, Balau or Ipe will usually set you back between around £60 per m² + VAT. These species offer impeccable outdoor performance with a stunning natural look.
- Mid-range timber: A thermally-treated quality softwood like Thermo-Nordic pine represents an excellent decking choice for those on more of a budget, costing around £35 per m² + VAT. These products combine excellent weather resistance with a tropical darker brown look, imparted as a result of the sustainable heat modification process.
- Lower-end timber: Tanalised (pressure-treated) softwood decking costs approximately £25 per m² + VAT. Typically made of pine or spruce, this is the type of decking you can find at home improvement stores in the UK. Whilst not the strongest or most durable, they can still represent a viable, budget-friendly option.
- Composite: If you’d prefer the low maintenance, high performance and on-trend colours afforded by a composite deck – which is a mixture of plastic and wood – then costs will be £40 per m² + VAT, but installation costs can run higher.
Taking the example of a typical domestic decking area – around 20m² – boards in a higher-end species like European oak or Iroko will cost around £1100 + VAT. In a quality mid-range species like Thermo-Nordic pine, it'll be £640 + VAT. At the lower end, a tanalised softwood deck may run you as little as £300.
Note that the costs above don’t factor in VAT (20%) or installation costs.
Stuck for choice when it comes to species? Take a look at our guide to the best species for decking and what each looks like.
Measuring and sizing up your garden for decking
Measure the length and width, in metres, of the proposed area for your decking. For a rectangular deck, simply multiply these two dimensions together. This will give you the area in m².
Additional processes and finishing touches
You might like your decking to come pre-treated during manufacture, sealing it against the outdoor elements – moisture and UV. These treatments can also help the natural beauty of the wood to shine. Expect a typical UV protectant finish to add £25 per m².
Your decking could also come with anti-slip strips, which can add a small amount of cost onto the project price. Particularly unusual profiles or in-built deck lighting can also slightly inflate costs — we can confirm these on enquiry.
Installation and other materials
If you’re hiring a contractor to install your decking, day rates are usually between £250–£350 depending on location. An average-sized 20m² rectangular deck may take two days to install, producing installation costs in the region of £600.
A complex design or uneven surface may increase labour costs. Those with the skills may prefer to DIY it in order to keep budgets down!
Other costs to bear in mind can include area preparation, removal of any existing deck and the frame, fixings and corner trims.
Looking for a quick decking quote?
Our timber decking is available in a range of quality species imported from across the world.
Our products are all machined to profile on-site by us to your specification, with pre-finishing and staining available. We also stock composite decking – ideal for a low-maintenance, long-lasting and aesthetically-stunning finish.
After enquiring, you’ll be assigned a project manager who will provide an end-to-end, one-to-one service for your project. Simply get in touch using the button below.
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