How Much Does Decking Cost in the UK? Composite vs Timber Decking Cost Guide (2026)

Installing decking is one of the most popular garden improvement projects in the UK. Whether you're creating an outdoor dining area, a space for entertaining guests, or simply making better use of your garden, decking can completely transform an outdoor area while potentially adding value to your home.

But how much does decking cost in the UK in 2026?

In this guide, we'll cover timber decking costs, composite decking prices, installation costs, maintenance requirements, planning considerations, and the factors that affect your overall budget.

Average Decking Costs in the UK

The cost of decking depends on several factors including the size of the deck, the material chosen, site preparation requirements, and any additional features such as steps, lighting, seating, or balustrades.

Typical decking costs are:

• Softwood timber decking: £80 – £150 per m² installed
• Hardwood timber decking: £150 – £300 per m² installed
• Composite decking: £120 – £250 per m² installed
• Premium composite decking: £250 – £400+ per m² installed

For most UK homeowners, a professionally installed decking project costs between £2,000 and £6,000, although large premium installations can exceed £10,000.

Timber Decking Costs

Timber decking remains a popular option due to its natural appearance and lower upfront cost.

Softwood Decking

Softwood decking is typically manufactured from pressure-treated pine, spruce, or redwood.

Typical costs:

• Small deck (10m²): £800 – £1,500
• Medium deck (20m²): £1,600 – £3,000
• Large deck (40m²): £3,000 – £6,000

Advantages include:

• Lower initial cost
• Natural appearance
• Easy to repair
• Wide range of styles available

However, timber decking requires regular maintenance to protect it from moisture, rot, and UV damage.

Hardwood Decking

Hardwood decking provides a more premium finish and greater durability than softwood alternatives.

Popular hardwood species include:

• Oak
• Cedar
• Balau
• Ipe

Typical costs:

• Small deck: £1,500 – £3,000
• Medium deck: £3,000 – £6,000
• Large deck: £6,000 – £12,000+

Hardwood decking can last significantly longer when properly maintained and offers a high-end appearance that many homeowners prefer.

Composite Decking Costs

Composite decking has become one of the fastest-growing garden improvement trends in recent years.

Manufactured from recycled plastics and wood fibres, composite boards are designed to replicate the appearance of timber without many of the maintenance requirements.

Typical composite decking costs:

• Small deck (10m²): £1,200 – £2,500
• Medium deck (20m²): £2,500 – £5,000
• Large deck (40m²): £5,000 – £10,000+

Premium composite products can exceed these figures depending on brand and specification.

Why Is Composite Decking More Expensive?

Although composite decking has a higher upfront cost, many homeowners view it as a long-term investment.

Benefits include:

• Minimal maintenance
• No annual staining or painting
• Resistant to rot and insects
• Long lifespan of 20–30 years or more
• Consistent appearance over time
• Available in a wide range of colours and finishes

For homeowners looking to reduce ongoing maintenance, composite decking often provides excellent value despite the higher installation cost.

Decking Installation Costs

Labour forms a significant proportion of any decking project.

Professional decking installers typically charge:

• £200 – £350 per day
• £40 – £80 per m² labour only

A straightforward deck installation may take two to four days, while larger or raised decking projects can take one to two weeks.

What Affects Decking Costs?

Several factors influence the final price of a decking installation.

Deck Size

Larger decks require:

• More materials
• More labour
• Additional structural support

The overall cost rises as deck size increases, although the cost per square metre may reduce slightly on larger projects.

Ground Preparation

Many gardens require preparation before decking can be installed.

This may include:

• Levelling uneven ground
• Removing old patios or decking
• Installing weed membranes
• Creating drainage solutions

Groundworks can add anywhere from £500 to £3,000+ to the total project cost.

Raised Decking

Raised decking requires additional structural work and safety measures.

This may include:

• Timber or steel supports
• Balustrades
• Handrails
• Steps

Raised decking can increase costs by 20–50% compared to ground-level installations.

Decking Steps

Steps are often required where there is a change in garden level.

Typical costs include:

• Basic timber steps: £150 – £500
• Composite decking steps: £300 – £1,000+

Balustrades and Railings

Balustrades improve safety and can significantly enhance appearance.

Typical costs:

• Timber balustrades: £50 – £120 per metre
• Metal balustrades: £80 – £200 per metre
• Glass balustrades: £150 – £400+ per metre

Glass systems are increasingly popular in modern garden designs due to their premium appearance.

Deck Lighting

Integrated deck lighting can extend the use of outdoor spaces into the evening.

Typical costs:

• LED deck lighting systems: £200 – £1,000+
• Electrical installation may incur additional charges

Composite Decking vs Timber Decking

Many homeowners struggle to decide between timber and composite decking.

Timber Decking

Pros:

• Lower upfront cost
• Natural appearance
• Easy to modify and repair
• Traditional aesthetic

Cons:

• Regular maintenance required
• Can warp, crack, or rot
• Requires periodic staining and treatment

Composite Decking

Pros:

• Low maintenance
• Long lifespan
• Resistant to weathering
• Modern appearance

Cons:

• Higher initial cost
• Can become warm in direct sunlight
• Damaged boards can be more expensive to replace

Does Decking Add Value to a Property?

A well-designed decking area can improve:

• Outdoor living space
• Garden functionality
• Entertaining potential
• Overall kerb appeal

While the exact value added varies by property and location, attractive landscaping improvements are consistently viewed favourably by buyers and estate agents.

Do You Need Planning Permission for Decking?

Most decking projects fall under permitted development rights.

However, planning permission may be required if:

• The decking platform is more than 300mm above ground level
• The structure covers more than 50% of the garden
• The property is listed
• You live within a conservation area

Always check with your local authority if you are unsure.

Ways to Save Money on Decking

To keep costs under control:

• Choose pressure-treated softwood instead of hardwood
• Keep the design simple and rectangular
• Build at ground level where possible
• Limit the number of steps and balustrades
• Obtain multiple quotes from local decking specialists
• Complete other landscaping work at the same time

Good planning can often save thousands of pounds on a decking project.

Decking Cost Calculator

The quickest way to estimate the cost of your decking project is with a personalised calculation based on:

• Deck size
• Material type
• Ground conditions
• Access to the property
• Additional features and finishes

Pricing Penguin's AI-powered decking cost calculator uses real UK landscaping and construction pricing data to generate instant estimates tailored to your specific project.

Final Thoughts

Decking remains one of the most effective ways to improve a garden and create additional outdoor living space.

In 2026, most UK homeowners can expect to spend between £2,000 and £6,000 for a professionally installed decking project, while larger premium installations can exceed £10,000.

Whether you choose traditional timber decking or modern composite decking, a professionally designed and installed deck can provide years of enjoyment while enhancing the overall appeal of your property.