Decking Cost Calculator
Decking is one of the most popular garden projects in the UK, giving you a level, low-maintenance space for furniture and entertaining without the ongoing work of a lawn. The material you choose makes a big difference to both the upfront cost and how much maintenance you'll be doing every year — budget softwood is cheapest to install but needs regular treatment, while premium composite costs more up front but needs very little upkeep for decades. Enter your deck dimensions below to get an estimated fully installed cost range for each material.
Enter your deck dimensions
We'll estimate the fully installed cost based on your chosen decking material.
Deck area: 12.0m² with Pressure-treated softwood (budget) at £80-120/m² installed (materials + labour):
£960 - £1,440 estimated total
This is a fully installed estimate (decking boards, joists, fixings and labour). Actual costs vary with substructure, ground preparation, deck height, balustrades and your local tradesperson's rates.
Compare materials for this area
- Pressure-treated softwood (budget)£960 - £1,440
- Hardwood (mid-range)£1,440 - £2,160
- Composite (premium)£1,800 - £3,000
Recommended for your patio
Furnish your new deck with a few well-reviewed garden furniture options.
£799.00
Pros
- All-weather PE rattan weave
- Rising table with built-in ice bucket
- Showerproof, UKFR-compliant cushions
Cons
- Heavy — needs two people to move
- Premium price for the corner + footstools configuration
£219.99
Pros
- Compact — fits small patios and balconies
- Removable, machine-washable cushion covers
- Glass-top coffee table with storage shelf
Cons
- Cushions fade after a season in direct sun
£89.99
Pros
- Fully weatherproof resin, rattan-effect weave
- Built-in storage table doubles as a coffee table
- Compact size ideal for balconies
Cons
- Seats two only
- No cushions included as standard
Frequently asked questions
Do I need planning permission for decking?
Most garden decking in the UK falls under permitted development and doesn’t need planning permission, provided it’s no more than 30cm above ground level, covers no more than 50% of your garden together with other outbuildings, and isn’t in front of the house. Raised decks over 30cm or decking near a boundary in a flat or maisonette may need a check with your local council.
Composite vs wood decking — which lasts longer?
Composite decking typically lasts 25-30 years with minimal upkeep, resisting rot, splintering and colour fade far better than timber. Pressure-treated softwood needs re-staining or oiling every 1-2 years and generally lasts 10-15 years, while hardwood can last 20+ years but needs regular oiling to keep its colour and prevent cracking.
What is included in the installed cost estimate?
Our estimates cover decking boards, the joist substructure, fixings and standard labour for a straightforward ground-level deck. They don't include extras like raised sub-frames on sloped gardens, balustrades and steps, groundwork or drainage, which can add significantly to the final price.
Why is composite decking so much more expensive than wood?
Composite boards cost more upfront because they're made from recycled wood fibres and plastic bonded under pressure, which is a pricier manufacturing process than sawn timber. That cost is usually offset over time by near-zero maintenance — no annual staining or oiling — and a much longer lifespan than softwood.