Timber Decking London

Installed timber decking in London typically ranges from £80 to £280+ per m², depending on the species and the complexity of the job. Pressure-treated softwood is the most accessible entry point; premium hardwoods like Ipe sit at the higher end. A typical 20–30m² London garden deck costs between £2,500 and £6,500 fully installed. We provide detailed, itemised quotes — no estimates, no surprises.

Neither is objectively better — they suit different priorities. Hardwood gives greater durability, harder wear resistance and more natural variation in the grain, but comes at a higher price. Softwood is more accessible in cost, lighter and still delivers 15–20 years of reliable performance when properly treated. We install both and will give you an honest recommendation for your specific garden, use and budget — we have no commercial incentive to push you in either direction.

For maximum durability and natural beauty, dense hardwoods like Ipe, Bangkirai and Garapa are outstanding choices — they genuinely last decades. For a balance of performance and cost, Siberian Larch is excellent. For straightforward, reliable performance on a sensible budget, quality pressure-treated pine or spruce does the job well. The best choice depends on your garden, how you use the space and what you want to spend. We will help you decide.

Timber decking requires more attention than composite, but it is not demanding. Softwood boards need an annual application of deck oil or treatment. Hardwood boards need oiling less frequently — once or twice a year is usually sufficient, depending on the species and exposure. All timber decking benefits from regular sweeping to prevent debris accumulation and occasional washing down. We provide a full written care guide at sign-off, specific to your boards.

Properly installed and maintained hardwood decking — particularly dense species like Ipe — can last 25–30 years or longer. Pressure-treated softwood gives reliable performance for 15–20 years with regular maintenance. In both cases, the sub-frame beneath the boards is as important as the boards themselves — a well-built frame will last the life of the deck above it.

Reclaimed timber decking uses salvaged boards from older structures — warehouses, factories, old barns — that have been cleaned, processed and re-machined for use as decking. It brings genuine character that new timber cannot replicate, along with solid sustainability credentials. Supply is less predictable than new timber and the cost is typically higher, but for clients who want something genuinely distinctive, it is a compelling option. We can source and fit reclaimed timber decking on request.

Yes. Timber decking can be fitted on a sloped garden using a raised sub-frame that levels the deck surface while accommodating the gradient beneath. This is very common in London, where completely flat gardens are the exception rather than the rule. The sub-frame for a sloped site is more complex than for flat ground — which is reflected in the quote — but the result is a level, properly drained deck regardless of what is underneath.

Pressure-treated softwood has been treated under factory conditions and does not need additional treatment before installation, though we recommend an initial application of deck oil once fitted to seal the surface. Hardwood boards are typically supplied untreated and benefit from an application of quality deck oil before or immediately after installation to seal the end grain and establish initial protection. We handle this as part of our standard installation and sign-off process.