Garden Decking

Our garden decking range has everything you need to create a beautiful and functional outdoor space. Choose from a variety of materials, including timber and composite decking, to suit your style and budget. With our high-quality decking boards, joists, posts and screws, you can build a durable and attractive deck that will last for years to come. 

Or, to enhance your existing deck, explore our range of durabledecking paint and stylish decking lights. 

If you need a helping hand with installation, read our handy guide on how to lay a deck.

What is decking?

Decking refers to a flooring structure installed outside and commonly added to gardens to create a dining or seating area. It’s usually made from composite or timber decking boards, and is above the ground so it can be used as a patio, terrace or other outdoor space.

How do you clean a deck?

Start by brushing off any loose leaves and debris, then give it a wash with warm, soapy water and a stiff brush. For tougher dirt, you can use a decking cleaner or a pressure washer on a low setting. Make sure the surface is completely dry before treating or painting. 

Can you sand decking?

Yes, we recommend sanding a deck to get rid of any rough spots or old finishes before staining or painting the surface. 

How much is decking?

How much a decking set-up costs depends on the material and size. It also depends on whether you choose to install the garden decking yourself or hire a professional. At Wickes, our garden decking range starts at £7 per board to ensure we have a solution for all budgets.

How long does decking last?

How long decking lasts can depend on its material and how well it’s looked after. As a general rule, softwood decking, such as treated pine, can last between 10 and 15 years. However, hardwood decking like oak or teak can last between 20 and 40 years, and composite decking can last 25-30 years or even longer. You should regularly clean, seal and protect it to prolong its lifespan.

How much decking do I need?

To understand how much decking you need to purchase, you should measure the length x width of the area you’re wishing to deck. This’ll give you the total square metres needed.

How do you build a decking frame?

To build a decking frame, you’ll need to join the decking joists, measure and cut the wood to the correct length before fixing the frame into position, amongst other steps. For the full details, follow our handy how-to build a deck guide on our website.

Does decking attract rats?

Decking doesn’t attract rats itself; it’s more the dark, sheltered space found underneath that makes a good nesting spot. To reduce the risk of attracting rats in your garden, keep food and rubbish away from the area, keep plants from overgrowing, keep the area under the deck as clear and dry as possible, block access with mesh panels, avoid leaving animal food outside, and regularly inspect the area for any signs of rats.

How do you get rid of rats under decking?

The best way to rid of rats under your decking is to firstly remove anything attracting them (food, bird seed etc), lay down some rat traps per their instructions, and then once it’s all clear, block access to underneath the decking. 

How do you stop decking from being slippery?

The best way to reduce slipperiness on your decks is to regularly clean them, remove any algae, moss and dirt build-up, apply anti-slip treatment designed for decks, install anti-slip tape or strips to high footfall areas, and trim any nearby plants or shrubs to improve exposure to the sun so that it dries quicker.

Is decking cheaper than paving?

Yes, decking is usually more affordable than paving due to the installation itself, as decking is an easier (and quicker) DIY job, especially when using softwood timber.

Do I need planning permission for decking?

Usually, you don’t need planning permission for decking installations in the UK, as long as the deck isn’t higher than 30cm off the ground, covers less than half of your garden, and isn’t installed in the front garden.

How do you attach decking?

You usually attach decking to joists using decking screws, or hidden clips or fasteners, leaving slight gaps to ensure proper drainage and room for expansion.

How do you treat decking?

We recommend you clean it regularly to remove surface-level grime, but let it dry completely before using it again. You should also apply decking oil, stain or preservative using the product instructions, and upkeep this every 1-3 years. This’ll likely prolong its lifespan and help it resist external conditions.

Can you paint decking?

Yes, you can paint decking with the right preparation and specialist deck paint.