A well-designed deck can transform the way homeowners use their outdoor space, creating a place to relax, dine, entertain or just enjoy spending more time outside.
But getting it right depends on careful planning, because many of the issues that can cause a less-than-perfect deck can be traced to decisions made at the very beginning.
To help people achieve the deck of their dreams, leading composite decking brand Trex® has worked with its UK network of qualified TrexPro® installers to identify the most common mistakes made when planning a deck – plus tips for avoiding them.
- Not giving enough thought to how the deck will be used
Andrew Milby, of Cumbria-based decking specialist A.M. Joinery, said: “A deck that looks great on paper but doesn’t work for the homeowners’ lifestyle is a wasted investment.
“To make sure a deck will fit their needs, I encourage clients to think about what it will be used it for, whether that’s doing yoga in the morning or family barbecues in the summer. In my experience, people often initially underestimate the size of the deck they’ll need.”
Sussex-based installer Sam Buckland agrees. “I recommend making a simple layout of the deck on paper,” he said. “Include the measurements of dining tables and chairs, sun loungers and any other furniture that will be located on the deck, so you can be confident the finished space will really work for during the day to day.”
It’s also worth considering whether the deck can be built in a way that creates valuable storage space or additional living space. For a balcony deck or an elevated deck, installing an under-deck drainage system like Trex® RainEscape® as part of the build will keep the area beneath it dry and protected from the elements by collecting water and diverting it away via a network of troughs and downspouts.
- Thinking all composite decking is the same
“One of the most common mistakes people make when planning a new deck is assuming that all composite decking is essentially the same,” said Paul Smythe of Gower Composite Decking.
“While one brand of board may look similar to another at first glance, composite decking products differ significantly in how they’re made and how they perform over time, with the differences affecting everything from colour stability to durability, maintenance needs and long-term value.
“Many homeowners who had low-quality composite decks installed during lockdown are now replacing them because they’ve worn badly and become unattractive or downright dangerous in just a few years.”
Variations in the mix of recycled materials, the manufacturing process and whether boards are capped or uncapped can have a real impact on performance. Premium products are more resistant to fading, staining and moisture ingress, which is typically reflected in much longer warranty periods of 25 or even 50 years.
- Skimping on the subframe
“The subframe is the most important part of a deck build,” said Phil Wright, of Wirral Decking. “It creates a level surface that supports the deck’s weight and lifts the boards off the ground to ensure good airflow and prevent moisture damage.
“Sometimes clients who are replacing an existing deck are keen to re-use the subframe that’s in place, because they don’t realise that without a strong subframe, even the best decking boards will fail prematurely.
“Reputable contractors won’t skimp on the foundations,” added Phil. “We extend the life of the subframes we build by using a deck joist tape such as Trex® Protect, which creates a waterproof barrier protecting joists and beams from moisture, rot and other weather damage.
“A deck can be a big investment, and using a deck joist tape is a cost-effective way of making sure the substructure lasts as long as the deck it’s supporting.”
- Forgetting the finishing touches
“It’s the finishing touches that transform a deck from functional to stunning,” said Jake Richards of south Wales-based Pro Carpentry Specialists.
“Design details such as picture framing around the edges or inlay patterns can give a deck structure and a sense of craftsmanship, while integrated lighting creates atmosphere, as well as extending the use of the deck into the evening.
“Something else to consider is deck railing, not just for safety reasons but because it can make a big difference to the overall look of a deck. To really achieve that ‘wow factor’, I advise homeowners to think about these extra elements at the planning stage. It’s much easier than adding them as an afterthought.”
Final thoughts
Lee Heitzman, market manager for Trex in the UK and Ireland, said: “By avoiding the most common mistakes when planning a deck, homeowners can create an outdoor space that’s comfortable, practical, beautiful and durable.
“Things like taking time at the start of the project to think about how the space will be used, investing in the right structure and materials and making the most of professional advice will all lead to more enjoyment when it comes to using your deck in the years ahead.”