Choosing between grooved or smooth decking boards

Before purchasing garden decking you need to decide whether you want to get smooth or grooved garden decking boards. The main difference between these two types of decking board is that grooved decking boards are said to be less slippery than the plain smooth timber boards, especially when wet. Although it is not essential to have grooved decking boards for the main decking area, it is recommended that grooved boards are used for decking steps, making them less slippery and therefore less dangerous.

Smooth Decking Boards

Grooved Decking Boards

If you want to try something different to the normal 'timber' decking boards, there is a decking product currently on the market called Deck Grip which is made from fibre glass and is slip resistant.

Preparation and planning required for garden decking

Questions that you should consider before buying garden decking:

What will the deck be used for? It needs to be large enough to accommodate garden furniture and to hold a desired number of people.

Where will the deck be located? To make the most of a view or sun trap, consider the position of the sun and wind direction.

Where are your utilities? Check the position of utilities such as gas, water and electricity pipes.

Do I need planning permission for a deck? Generally speaking planning permission is not required to build a deck, however, if you are considering building a raised deck that may overlook neighbours you should check with your local planning department and consult with your neighbours.

Advantages of garden decking

Whether relaxing, dining or entertaining, timber decking can provide a practical and versatile solution for larger and smaller gardens alike, extending the home into the garden to make the most of your available space.

Most garden fencing and timber suppliers offer a wide range of garden decking products for customised results to suit all lifestyle requirements. These include deck-bearers, deckboards, deck tiles and many more accessories. Pre-formed deck surrounds are available in timber Chippendale or Sunburst or decorative metal Valencia and Barcelona style panels.

Among the best online decking suppliers are:

Eco Decking Tiles

Timber Decking Company

Buy Decking Direct

Decking may at first appear a daunting project. However all you need is a saw, a hammer, a spirit level and a free weekend. Simple step-by-step instructions on planning and building a deck make creating a fantastic and functional setting for outdoor living simple, even if your DIY expertise is somewhat lacking!

Whatever your level of DIY skill, there are a range of deck kits available which come complete with everything you need to assemble a deck with minimum time and effort, including comprehensive instructions, making it an ideal weekend DIY project.

Decking Doctor Treatment

To keep your timber decking ship-shape, you will ideally need to treat it regularly using a specialist deck treatment. I recommend that you carry this out once a year for the first two to three years after you first install the deck, and then just once every other year. Follow these four simple steps:

• Remove all surface dirt, algae and grit. Before you start, use either a pressure washer or a stiff brush to clean off the debris - something like an old-fashioned scrubbing brush is ideal!

• Deep clean Specialist 'decking cleaners' are now available to help you remove all grease and dirt and prevent the re-growth of algae and fungus. Remove and soapy residues by washing throroughly with clean water - again, with a pressure washer if you have one.

• Apply stain or preservative When the decking is dry, a deck stain or preservative can be applied. If you have a hardwood deck you should also consider an annual treatment of revitalising decking oil.

• Seal and protect Finally, you need to seal the wood with a decking protector. This is a clear, water repellent coat that contains waxes to help prevent moisture damage, a preservative to keep the surface free from decay, and an algaecide to prevent mould growth.

Three of the top online suppliers of decking within the UK include:

• Timber Decking Company - www.timberdeckingco.co.uk

• Buy Decking Direct - www.buydeckingdirect.co.uk

• Quality Decking - www.qualitydecking.co.uk