Quick Answer
Decking costs in the UK range from £80 to £200 per square metre installed. A typical 15m² deck costs £1,200 to £3,000 for DIY or £2,000 to £5,000 professionally installed.Timber Decking CostsSoftwood: £80-120 per m² installed. The most affordable option. Lifespan 10-15 y...
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- Last Updated:
- 26 Jul 2026
- Category:
- Cost Guides
- Reading Time:
- 1 min read
Decking costs in the UK range from £80 to £200 per square metre installed. A typical 15m² deck costs £1,200 to £3,000 for DIY or £2,000 to £5,000 professionally installed.
Timber Decking Costs
Softwood: £80-120 per m² installed. The most affordable option. Lifespan 10-15 years with annual treatment. Hardwood: £150-250 per m² installed. Beautiful and lasts 25-40 years.
Composite Decking Costs
Composite boards cost £120-200 per m² installed. No annual treatment needed, slip-resistant, and lifespan of 25-30 years.
Hidden Costs
Foundations add £300-800. Balustrades cost £50-150 per metre. Steps add £200-500 per flight. Lighting costs £200-400.
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I noticed you've mentioned composite decking prices are £120-£200/m² installed. Could you clarify if that's inclusive of any additional costs like delivery?
Remember to consider expansion gaps between boards to accommodate temperature fluctuations – around 3-5mm should suffice for timber, but composite may require more.
Just had my first composite decking installed last week. It's looking fantastic! Wonder how soon I can start hosting garden parties? 🍹🌳
I'd add that for timber decking, consider pressure-treated softwood for longevity. It's typically £10-20 more per m² but extends lifespan to 20+ years.
Just wondering, would you recommend softwood for a small, temporary deck in my mum's garden? She's on a tight budget but doesn't want it to look too cheap!
I notice you've quoted ranges for decking costs. Could you perhaps clarify how these brackets are arrived at? E.g., what's the most expensive option under £200/m²?
I'm planning my new deck in Bristol. Based on these prices, I might splash out on some composite for low-maintenance living!
I've just had composite decking installed in my back garden in Leeds. Cost me about £2,500 including foundations and lighting, but it's absolutely stunning - well worth it!
While the price ranges are helpful, could you please clarify how these costs compare to 2026's inflation adjustment?
I'm interested in composite decking, but can you clarify why it costs more than hardwood? Is it just because of its longevity?