Decking guides
Composite vs wood decking: which is better?
Wood is cheaper to fit and looks and feels natural, but needs cleaning and treating every year or two and lasts about 10 to 20 years. Composite costs more upfront but needs only washing and often lasts 25 years or more. If you plan to stay put and want low upkeep, composite usually wins over its lifetime.
Read the guideHow long does composite decking last?
Good capped composite decking typically lasts 25 to 30 years, and leading brands give warranties of 25 years or more. Treated softwood usually lasts…
25 October 2026
How to clean composite decking
Brush off loose dirt, wet the boards, scrub with warm water and a mild detergent or decking cleaner, then rinse well. Do it at least twice a year…
25 October 2026
Is composite decking slippery?
Good composite decking is usually less slippery than timber, especially once timber has gone green. Like any outdoor surface it can be slippery when…
25 October 2026
Do I need planning permission for decking?
Usually not. In England, decking counts as permitted development if it is no more than 30 cm above the ground, is not in front of the house, and, with…
25 October 2026
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