Decking Ideas for All Garden Types

Having a composite patio or decking area in your garden can transform it into an outdoor oasis and encourage you to spend more time outside when the weather is nice. It is the perfect place to unwind, relax, and entertain guests during the warmer months. Using modern composite decking kits is a popular and easy way to create an enjoyable space in your garden while adding contemporary decor and style to your property. When choosing between a paved patio of an area of decking, it's worth looking at the benefits of decking:

1. Easier to install: Decking is easier and quicker to install compared to paving. With a decking kit, you can have a new outdoor space up and running within a day or two.

2. Versatility: Decking is more versatile than paving as it can easily be built at different levels and shapes, allowing you to create a more unique and interesting outdoor space.

3. Better for uneven ground: If your garden has uneven ground or slopes, decking can be built to adapt to these changes in the terrain, whereas paving may be more difficult to install in such circumstances.

4. Limited ground preparation: Decking is often a simpler project especially if you are looking to cover an existing patio or hardstanding without needing to dig it all up.

5. Easy to repair: If one or more decking boards become damaged, they can be easily replaced, whereas damaged paving slabs can be more difficult to remove and replace.

6. Natural look: Decking has a natural organic look and feel compared to paving, which can add to the aesthetic appeal of your outdoor space.

7. Better for drainage: Decking is better for drainage as water can seep through the gaps between the boards, whereas paving can create water pooling and drainage issues if not installed correctly.

Overall, the choice between decking and paving will depend on your personal preferences and the specific requirements of your outdoor space.

Focal Deck: A focal deck can serve as the central and primary area of your garden, perfect for entertaining guests or enjoying al fresco dining. You can easily create this focal decking with the Forest Patio Deck Kit. Crafted from stunning softwood, it boasts a smooth finish and a square design, complete with sturdy posts and side rails. This makes it the ideal base for a table and chairs, as well as outdoor seating and a coffee table. Additionally, all the timber used in the deck kit has undergone pressure treatment to prevent rotting and other forms of damage. You can enjoy peace of mind with the 15-year guarantee against rot provided with the kit.

Multi-Level Decking: Creating a multi-level decking can add depth and interest to your outdoor space. You can create different zones for lounging, dining, and entertaining, and add steps or built-in seating for a more functional and stylish look. Multi-level composite decking is a popular choice for homeowners looking to create a more interesting and dynamic outdoor space. It involves building a decking structure that consists of two or more levels at different heights, connected by stairs or a ramp. This design allows for the creation of distinct areas for different activities, such as dining, lounging, and entertaining, while also making the most of the available space. Composite decking is an ideal material for multi-level decking as it is durable, low maintenance, and available in a wide range of colours and styles to suit any design preference. Additionally, composite decking is resistant to mould, mildew, and insects, making it a great choice for areas with high humidity or frequent rainfall. With multi-level composite decking, you can create a functional and visually appealing outdoor space that meets all of your needs.

Decking with Built-in Planters: If you love gardening, consider incorporating planters into your decking design. This can be a fun and creative way to showcase your favourite plants and flowers and add some colour and life to your outdoor space. Composite decking with built-in planters is a popular trend in modern outdoor design. This type of decking features planters integrated into the deck boards, allowing for easy planting of flowers, herbs, and other greenery. Composite decking is an ideal material for built-in planters as it is durable, low maintenance, and resistant to rot and insect damage. Additionally, composite decking with built-in planters allows for the creation of a cohesive design, with the planters seamlessly blending into the overall look of the deck. This type of decking is perfect for homeowners who want to incorporate more greenery into their outdoor space but have limited space for traditional planters. With composite decking with built-in planters, you can enjoy the beauty of plants and flowers while also creating a functional and stylish outdoor space.

Decking with Lighting: Adding lighting to your decking can create a cosy and inviting atmosphere for your outdoor gatherings. You can opt for string lights, lanterns, or built-in lighting for a more modern and sophisticated look. Composite decking with built-in lighting is a great way to add a stylish and functional touch to your outdoor space. This type of decking features lighting fixtures integrated into the deck boards, providing soft, subtle illumination that can transform the look and feel of your patio or back garden. Composite decking is an ideal material for built-in lighting as it is durable, low maintenance, and resistant to moisture and weather damage. In addition to providing an attractive and welcoming atmosphere, built-in lighting can also improve safety by illuminating steps and other potential tripping hazards. With composite decking with built-in lighting, you can enjoy your outdoor space well into the evening hours and create a beautiful and inviting environment for your family and guests to enjoy.

Decking with a Fire Pit: Composite decking incorporating a fire pit can add a warm and inviting atmosphere to your outdoor space, perfect for gathering with friends and family. However, it is essential to ensure that the fire pit is installed at a safe distance from the composite decking to prevent any potential accidents or damage. Composite decking is resistant to heat, but it is not fireproof, so it is crucial to follow safety guidelines. The fire pit should be placed on a non-flammable surface, such as concrete or pavers, and at least 10 feet away from any flammable materials, including your composite decking. It is also recommended to install a heat shield or a protective mat under the fire pit for added safety. With proper installation and safety measures in place, you can enjoy the warmth and beauty of a fire pit on your composite decking with peace of mind.

Decking with a Water Feature: Incorporating a water feature into your decking design can create a calming and tranquil atmosphere in your outdoor space. You can opt for a small fountain, a pond, or a waterfall for a more dramatic effect. Imagine the soothing sound of water flowing as you relax on your composite decking. With the right design and materials, you can easily incorporate a water feature into your composite decking. For instance, you can install a small fountain or a pond that seamlessly blends with the decking design. A water feature can also add to the visual appeal of your outdoor space by creating a natural and serene ambiance. However, it is crucial to ensure that the water feature is installed correctly to prevent any damage to your composite decking. Proper waterproofing and drainage systems should be in place to avoid water damage and rot. With the right care and maintenance, a composite decking with a water feature can be a stunning addition to your outdoor oasis.

Decking a Small Garden Space: Using composite decking is an excellent way to enhance a small space in your garden. With its sleek and modern design, composite decking can transform even the smallest of outdoor areas into a functional and stylish space. Composite decking can also provide an illusion of space and depth, making your garden appear larger. By choosing the right design and colour, you can create a seamless transition between your indoor and outdoor spaces, allowing you to make the most of your garden area. Composite decking is also low maintenance and long-lasting, making it perfect for small gardens where space and time are at a premium. Additionally, composite decking can be used to create unique and practical features such as built-in seating or planters, maximizing your garden's potential while still leaving enough room for outdoor activities.

Raised Beds: Using composite decking to create raised beds is a great way to add depth and dimension to your garden. Not only does it allow you to add plants and flowers at a higher level, making them easier to access and maintain, but it can also create a stunning visual effect. Composite decking is an ideal material for creating raised beds as it is durable, long-lasting, and resistant to rot and insects. It can be easily cut to size and shaped to fit the specific requirements of your garden, and it will not warp or split over time, ensuring your raised beds stay looking great for years to come. Plus, it can be easily combined with other materials such as paving, gravel or natural stone to create a unique and stylish design.

Combining Decking with Paving: Combining composite decking with paving is a great way to add visual interest and functionality to your outdoor space. You can use composite decking to create a seating or dining area, and then use paving to define pathways or border areas. This can help break up the space and make it feel larger. Additionally, combining these materials can add texture and contrast to your design. For example, you can use a light-coloured composite decking material with dark, slate-like pavers for a modern and sophisticated look. Just make sure to install both materials correctly and use proper edging to prevent shifting or damage over time. For example, the Ecoscape UK Composite Decking Clarity Charcoal Kit will look stunning combined with natural stone. In addition, it will allow you to add a slip resistant and low maintenance area to your patio that is safe for families with children and pets. With a 20 year warranty, this decking kit is guaranteed to look beautiful for years to come.

Covered Decking: Living in the UK means that we can't always rely on sunny weather, even during the summer months. However, with the Forest Ultima Pergola Deck Kit, you don't have to worry about the weather spoiling your outdoor plans. This deck kit is a popular choice because it comes with a built-in pergola that can be accessorised with covers and sheets to keep you dry during rainy days, and offer shade on sunny ones. The kit is made with beautiful, natural wood that has been planed for a smooth finish and is guaranteed against rot for 15 years. When the weather is nice, the pergola is perfect for climbing plants and colourful flowers to create a stunning outdoor feature. The square decking is raised off the ground with railings on two sides, making it an ideal focal point for creating a relaxing seating area or dining space for evening meals.

There are plenty of ways in which decking can make a difference to your garden. Here's some design ideas of how to lay composite decking:

One design idea for composite decking is the chevron layout. The chevron pattern is created by laying the boards at an angle to form a V-shape. This design adds a modern and stylish touch to your deck and can be used to create an illusion of a bigger space.

Another design idea is a framed deck. This design is created by using different colours or textures of composite decking to create a border or frame around the deck. This technique can add depth and character to your deck and make it stand out.

Using combinations of colours is another way to create a unique deck design. You can use different colours of composite decking to create patterns, borders or even a picture on your deck. This technique can be used to match the colour scheme of your house or add a pop of colour to your outdoor living space.

If you want to add a touch of creativity and uniqueness to your garden, why not consider a curved or circular decking design? The traditional square and rectangular shapes can sometimes look dull and uninteresting, but with the Ecoscape UK Composite Decking Clarity Autumn Decking Kit, you can create a stylish and slip-resistant decking area that adds charm and character to your outdoor space. By eliminating harsh lines and wasted space, you can create more room for greenery and flowers. With a curved or circular deck, you'll have an eye-catching and modern design that is sure to impress your neighbors and guests, and have them wondering how you achieved such a beautiful and unique look.

Finally, balustrades can add a decorative touch and safety feature to your composite decking. Balustrades are vertical posts that support a handrail and can be made from different materials, such as glass, metal or wood. They can be designed in different styles, such as modern, rustic or traditional, to complement your deck design.

Composite decking offers a wide range of design options that can help you create a beautiful and functional outdoor living space. The chevron layout, framed design, combinations of colours and balustrades are just a few design ideas that can enhance your composite decking project.

In conclusion, there are endless possibilities when it comes to modern decking ideas, and with the right decking kit, you can easily transform your outdoor space into a functional and stylish oasis. Be sure to browse through various decking kits available in the market to find the perfect style that suits your needs and budget.