Trades · Updated 2026
Decking cost
Typical range£50–£15,000· Average timber decking installation (15m²)
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.
Quick answer: Decking cost in the UK typically costs between £50 and £15,000 (Average timber decking installation (15m²)). London and the South East run 20–35% above this range; the North, Wales and most of Scotland sit 5–15% below.
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
Indicative price ranges (UK, GBP)
| 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.
Labour line items
| 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.
Materials & fittings
| 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.