How to Avoid of 11 Common Errors when Planning a New Design or Upgrade a Deck

Brief 

Our experts give their advice on the deck mistakes to avoid so your project runs smoothly from start to finish.

Insight

Make sure you’re up to speed with common deck mistakes so you don’t create problems for yourself when coming up with plans for a new deck or makeover of an existing one in your backyard.

Putting in a new deck can be costly and takes time so be sure to iron out any glitches before you start to get things right from the get-go. Hardscaping tends to be the most expensive part of any garden project and when it comes to designing a deck there’s lots of advice out there on how to do it but not all of it is correct.

If you’re not a DIYer always make sure you get professional input from a landscaper who’s registered with a trade organisation. If you’re planning on doing a self-build then do as much research as possible before you hit planning stage, making sure you consider things like the best materials to use, correct construction and how the look of your deck fits in with your existing garden scheme.

Whichever route you’re taking, you need to know what pitfalls to avoid when constructing a new deck. From designing an adequate under structure and using the right materials, to budgeting correctly and allowing enough time, we’ve enlisted the help of decking experts so you can get the perfect decking ideas in place for your outdoor space.

THE TOP 11 DECK MISTAKES TO AVOID

From choosing the best location for your deck to selecting the right decking boards, there are so many decisions you’ll need to make when planning your space and so much choice out there that it can be easy to go wrong.

Budget is a key issue when planning how to build decking. But one thing to bear in mind is that decking can be a cheaper option if you’re not yet fixed on the idea.

‘Decking is a great way of utilising and creating an area in your garden for relaxing and entertaining, and is cheaper and easier than laying a more expensive patio,’ says Matthew Brown, technical consultant at Sadolin(opens in new tab).