What is the cheapest way to do decking?
Compared with what has been discussed already, some cheaper alternatives to wooden decking boards include rubber mats, wood chippings and pallet decking. These more budget-friendly options may not have the same aesthetic appeal as timber, composite or PVC decking – but they do come with their benefits. The typical American deck is 300 – 400 square feet, meaning the average deck costs about $21 per square foot. However, high-class decks can cost as much as $50 per square foot, and minimalistic models can cost as little as $15 per square foot.The most economical decking material, by far, is pressure treated wood. Pressure treated wood is superior to regular wood because it has been infused with chemicals that help it resist decay and rot, as well as damage from certain types of insects.A 20 x 20 deck installation costs approximately $20,000 on average. Using more economical materials like bamboo or cedar deck boards can knock the price down. In contrast, high-end decking materials like composite decking will increase the price.Softwood options typically range from £60 to £80 per m², while hardwood decking costs can be between £100 and £120 per m². Don’t forget: Wood decking requires regular maintenance to prevent damage and extend its lifespan.
Can I put deck posts in the ground without concrete?
The International Residential Code (IRC) R507. Floating Deck Codes and Regulations You likely won’t need a permit for your floating deck if your project meets the following criteria: The deck takes up fewer than 200 square feet. The deck is not more than 30 inches above the ground. The deck is not attached to your house.The biggest size of deck that can be built without a permit is 200 square feet. However, deck design and height should also be considered when planning permit-free projects. According to the International Residential Code (IRC), decks won’t require a permit if they: Are less than 30 inches above ground.The International Residential Code (IRC) R507. For these smaller decks, floating deck construction strategies can be used to build a deck without concrete footers.
Can I lay decking directly on soil?
Building a deck directly over soil can cause significant moisture issues, as pointed out by @Jewelleryrescue. You’d need to excavate the area, remove at least 100mm of soil, place down weed mat and then add drainage gravel so water can pass through the deck and easily drain away. Weed membrane can be a great way to keep weeds down. It can enhance the look of your garden and prevent weeds from growing underneath your decking, poking through the gaps in your decking boards and potentially damaging the structure.If you’re building upon soil or grass instead of concrete, then it’s a good idea to install a membrane underneath your deck first. This helps to prevent weeds from springing but still allows water to permeate back into the ground. Give any existing weeds a spray with weed killer before you put down the membrane.Put Landscape Fabric Under the Deck It stabilizes soil, preventing weed growth and maintaining the area’s aesthetic appeal. For optimal performance, cover the landscape fabric with a layer of gravel or rocks. Without this covering, dirt may accumulate on the fabric’s surface, potentially leading to weed growth.If you’re building upon soil or grass instead of concrete, then it’s a good idea to install a membrane underneath your deck first. This helps to prevent weeds from springing but still allows water to permeate back into the ground. Give any existing weeds a spray with weed killer before you put down the membrane.
Is garden decking a good idea?
Decking can be used to make anything from a patio or seating area or pond surround, it can be a cost effective way to level off uneven ground, and can be used as part of a feature in its own right. Decking can look attractive and stylish, too. When evaluating the lifespan of decking materials, composite decking stands out as one of the longest-lasting options available. While traditional wood decking, such as pressure-treated lumber, typically requires replacement every 10-20 years, composite decking offers a lifespan of 25 to 50 years.The lifespan of a floating deck depends on the materials used and the environment. Typically, a well-maintained floating deck made of pressure-treated wood or composite materials can last anywhere from 10 to 25 years. Regular maintenance, like sealing wood decks, can extend their lifespan.The most affordable decking option is typically a ground-level gravel or concrete patio, while pallet decking and interlocking deck tiles also provide budget-friendly solutions.You can typically expect a deck to last 10-30 years for untreated wood and 50 or more years for treated wood and composite. However, the lifespan of a deck also depends heavily on its materials and how you maintain and seal it over the years.While a pallet deck won’t last you nearly as long as a deck built from treated timber, you can at least hope to get a couple of years out of it and it will only cost you the price of a packet of screws. For the deck frame, you’re going to need a number of uniform pallets in good condition all over.
Can I lay decking directly on soil?
It’s quite common for decking, composite or not, to be laid on either grass or soil, especially when building a ground level deck. With specialised equipment such as aluminium joists, decking can be raised off the ground. The most economical decking material, by far, is pressure treated wood. Pressure treated wood is superior to regular wood because it has been infused with chemicals that help it resist decay and rot, as well as damage from certain types of insects.However, as the weather turns damp, wet and frosty, wooden decking is prone to becoming very slippery, leading to a higher risk of accidents and injuries.Despite the rise of alternative materials such as composite, timber decking remains a highly sought-after option for homeowners, and for good reason. It’s affordable, adaptable, and a naturally beautiful option that looks great in any garden setting.When considering materials for your decking, uPVC emerges as a standout choice for its cost-effectiveness and long-term benefits. Unlike composite decking, which can be expensive both upfront and in the long run, uPVC decking is affordable, durable, and low maintenance.Ground-Level Deck: When it comes to affordable deck design, a ground-level deck is one of the simpler ways to go. There’s no need for support posts or an extensive framework and the reduced material and labor costs make it easier to not break the bank.
Does a deck need to be anchored to the ground?
Without footings, deck posts—having a much smaller contact area—could sink under the deck’s weight, compromising structural integrity. Potential lack of stability: Floating decks may not be as stable as traditional decks since they rely on smaller footings or blocks instead of direct attachment to a structure.