Decking cost
Timber and composite decking installation prices for 2025. In the UK, expect to pay between £50 and £15,000, with the typical project around £1,800 (average timber decking installation (15m²)). Regional variation, specification tier and site access conditions all shift the final quote.
Homeowners researching this typically also price up patio cost, garden landscaping cost and garden room cost. For wider context, browse our bathroom pricing, kitchen pricing and boiler & heating costs.
Cost table
| Item | Typical range (GBP) |
|---|---|
Pressure-treated timber (per m²) — Budget deck, treated pine, 5–8mm gaps | £50–£90 |
Hardwood timber decking (per m²) — Balau, ipe, cumaru — long lasting | £90–£160 |
Composite decking (per m²) — Low maintenance, no splinters | £80–£180 |
Small deck (10m²) — Supply and fit | £800–£2,000 |
Large deck (40m²) with steps — Full project inc. frame and balustrades | £4,000–£12,000 |
Labour costs
Labour typically accounts for 50% of the total project cost in the UK.
| Item | Typical range (GBP) |
|---|---|
Deck builder (per m²) | £20–£40/m² |
Frame / joists | £10–£20/m² |
Posts and footings | £20–£60/post |
Balustrade fitting | £50–£120/m |
Materials costs
Materials and fittings make up the remainder of the budget, with specification tier driving most of the variation.
| Item | Typical range (GBP) |
|---|---|
Treated pine deck boards (per m²) | £20–£40/m² |
Hardwood boards (per m²) | £45–£100/m² |
Composite boards (per m²) | £35–£100/m² |
Joists & frame timber | £12–£20/m² |
Decking screws / fixings | £3–£8/m² |
Deck oil / finish | £3–£8/m² |
Factors affecting cost in the UK
- ·Region — London and the South East run 15–30% above national averages.
- ·Specification tier — premium materials and finishes can double the base cost.
- ·Access and site conditions — flats, restricted parking and listed buildings add time.
- ·Scope changes mid-project — late design decisions are the biggest cost overrun driver.
- ·Trade availability — quotes rise 10–20% in peak spring and summer months.
Ways to reduce cost
- ·Choose pressure-treated softwood over hardwood or composite for lowest upfront cost.
- ·Build a single-level rectangular deck rather than multi-level or curved.
- ·Buy boards from a builders' merchant trade counter rather than a garden centre.
- ·Keep deck height below 30 cm to avoid balustrade and planning costs.
- ·DIY the deck and pay only for foundations and steps.
Frequently asked questions
- Is composite or timber decking better?
- Composite decking is significantly lower maintenance — no annual oiling or staining, splinter-free, and more resistant to rot and fading. Timber is cheaper upfront but requires annual treatment. Over a 10-year period, composite can be cost-equivalent when maintenance is factored in.
- Do I need planning permission for decking?
- Decking less than 300mm above ground level is usually permitted development. If your decking raises the garden level significantly, or you live in a listed building or conservation area, check with your local authority. Decking over 30m² in some gardens may also need approval.
- How long does timber decking last?
- Pressure-treated softwood lasts 10–15 years with annual treatment. Hardwood decking (balau, ipe) lasts 25–35+ years. Composite decking typically carries 20–25 year guarantees.
Sources & how we estimate
Prices are typical UK ranges compiled by ModernExpert.AI from published trade rates and supplier price lists, and are estimates — always get at least three written quotes. Rules on permissions, safety and certification come from the official sources below. Last reviewed 19 October 2026.
- Electrical Safety First — Find a registered electrician
- TrustMark — Government-endorsed tradesperson scheme
- GOV.UK — Building regulations approval
- Planning Portal — Do you need permission?
- ONS — Construction output price indices
Found an outdated figure? Tell us and we'll check it.