Decking creates the perfect outside room no matter where you live. The warm, natural tones of wooden decking blends into all house styles and can be made as large or as small as you want. Placed adjacent to patio doors leading from the lounge, or beside the kitchen door; an area of decking gives the impression that the house is much larger than expected. In fact, it is an ideal way of extending your house at a relatively low cost as it provides a lovely place for children to play in safety, or where you can relax and enjoy a barbeque. Planning permission is not normally needed for decking so you can install an area of decking quite quickly. To create an image of another room attached to the house, choose decking colours that blend into your décor. Look for natural shades that will link into your colour scheme or reflect the colour of furniture. A slightly lighter shade of wood can make the area seem even larger. Consider adding a few extras that will make your decking unique. Some balustrading round the decking can add an elegant touch. If you have young children, add a little gate with a safety catch so that they can play in safety while you are busy indoors. Avoid steps if there is anyone in the family with mobility issues – a gentle ramp will be far more user friendly. Leaving the patio doors open so that you can go straight out onto the decking encourages people to relax when having parties. They have the space to move, and are not confined to a small room. The decking can even become a place for intimate conversations while watching the sun set over the horizon. Add a pretty table and chairs, perhaps a barbeque, some planters filled with fragrant herbs and perhaps a candle or two – and your outside room is ready for use. So sit back and enjoy a relaxing evening on your new decking, made even better by the knowledge that this is an experience you can enjoy time and time again in the months ahead.
Garden decking – things to consider for your project
Garden decking is a fantastic way of providing a relaxing area in the garden. It looks good and can be styled to suit your needs but choosing the right decking is another matter. This can be a difficult choice to make because there are so many potential options. It is not colour and style, but where to place it, what materials you want to use, costs and practical considerations. Decide where you want to place the decking. Putting it next to the house is the usual answer but it may not be the best one for you. When will you be using the decking – all day or just in the evening after work? Decking works best in the sunniest part of the garden. Make sure that there is privacy from neighbours too. Fences, trees and shrubs may be needed. Check out the location of any manhole covers or drains in the chosen area. Decking can be created around these, but it is essential to seek advice from a skilled professional. Decking can work anywhere in the garden as it can be adapted to slopes, ridges or steps. Rather than just a simple rectangle of wood, it is worth considering giving it some style using circles or varying the level slightly. Building in some raised beds, a little pond or water feature such as a millstone trickle fountain will add interest to the overall design. A sand pit can be installed for young children to play in. This can always be converted to a flowerbed or water feature when they get older. Decking is very versatile and seating and storage options can be built into your deck to create a streamlined beautiful look for your garden. A great place to hide away garden toys or cushions. Consider too whether to add some balustrading around the decking. This can look very stunning. It can be a useful safety feature if the decking is elevated or on a slope. It can even be combined with a small gate to reduce the risk of children falling off the decking. Planning permission may be required and this needs to be checked before installation begins. There may be constraints if the garden is in a conservation area, the building is listed, levels are raised, or if it borders a neighbouring property. Doing your research beforehand can make a tremendous difference. Seeking the help of a professional contractor will certainly reduce the time scale as they can advise on location, materials as well as install it. Just think – planning now could mean your new decking is ready for use by Easter! If you have any questions on a decking project you are planning and would like some advice please get in touch www.eastlondonlandscapes.com.
