FAQ's:   Frequently Asked Questions

Our most frequently asked questions are answered below, simply click the question of your choice, if you have any further questions please feel free to use our email Contact Form or call us directly.

 Where can I site my deck/how do I plan my deck?

Anywhere, the choice is yours, timber decks can be sited almost anywhere, It's up to you. Do you want sun ? Shade ? Is the Deck for relaxing or a safe area for the children to play ? ....or a combination of the two ? It's up to you.

You can custom design your Deck and it can be literally any size or shape you desire, from simple to extremely complex. To enhance your Deck we can incorporate lighting, water features, screens and pergolas. You can customise your Deck with various decorative spindles and railing panels and Decking can be laid in different styles including standard, herringbone and diagonal. To further enhance your Deck you can incorporate seating, planters, cooking stations and hot tubs...

Whatever your desire or design, your Deck will require some forethought and our design expert will be more than happy to assist you in assessing the key features of your Deck.

For example:

- Is the site sloping or flat, should changes of level be built in?
- Is the site in the sun or shade or combine elements of both?
- Is the Deck intended to be private or public?
- Will the incorporated features interfere with your view?
- Will the location of the Deck interfere with services such as drains or manhole covers?
- Is the Deck primarily for adults, for entertaining and relaxing or for a family use with children’s play area?
- What additional features, such as steps, require to be incorporated into your design?

Before you purchase we strongly advise you to consider these points. Should you wish to discuss your requirements with us, please don't hesitate to contact us via our freephone telephone number or email form.

Should you wish to employ our Design services we will guide you through the planning process, taking into consideration the questions above, thereafter our Designer will show you an example created on our computer aided design software. Please note that this will be an illustration only of how your Deck could look and not an exact plan.

 What is the lifespan of a deck ?

Timber decks are highly durable, that's because naturally durable timber species or pressure-treated redwoods are used in there construction.  Modern preservative treatments mean that the timber, if maintained should last around 25 years, however to keep it looking good over such a time it will need periodic cleaning and any finishes will need occasional refreshing.

Are decks slippery when wet ?

A well maintained deck, that's kept clean, wont be slippery when wet, that is the fault of algae, lichens or other build up of growth. A good stiff brush now and again will keep your deck in tip top condition, or the occasional pressure wash - we would recommend at least once a year.

 Do I need planning permission or building regulations?

Generally speaking, timber Decks (as an addition to an existing property) do not require planning permission. However, it is prudent to check if you live in a conservation area or in a listed building. For new buildings or major refurbishment projects, we would recommend that the proposed Deck design be included with the planning approval. We would be happy to discuss this with you if you are unsure.

 Can you provide a guide price for a deck?

As most Decks are custom built we cannot give an exact price, but it would be fair to say that Decks can range from £1,800 to £15,000 and upwards depending on your requirements and accessories. We are happy to give a no obligation quote.

 How do I maintain a deck?

The timber used in the construction of Decking is pre-treated with preservative and, if maintained, should last around 25 years. However, to keep it looking good over such a time it will require periodic cleaning and any chosen finishes will call for occasional refreshing.  If you choose to stain your Deck it will need a re-coat perhaps every two or three years.

Should you decide to retain the natural colour of the timber Border Decking Company recommend that you consider sealing the timber on your Deck with one of the many Deck sealing products available. This is not a necessity, but will help to maintain the original timber colour.