As soon as the sun breaks through the clouds in the South West, we all want to be outside. But if your garden is damp grass or uneven paving, it’s hard to host a proper BBQ. A professionally installed timber deck is the most effective way to extend your living space outdoors.
At Joe's Fencing & Landscaping, we find that decking is particularly popular in Bristol due to the hilly terrain. A raised deck is the perfect solution for smoothing out sloping gardens and creating a flat, usable platform for furniture and friends.
1. The Foundation: It's What's Underneath That Counts
Many DIY decks fail after a few years because the sub-frame rots. We treat the frame with the same importance as the visible boards.
- Ground Prep: We always clear the vegetation and lay a heavy-duty weed membrane topped with gravel. This prevents weeds from growing up through the cracks and allows water to drain away.
- Structural Timber: We use pressure-treated C24 structural carcassing for the frame. This is the same grade of timber used in house roofing, ensuring your deck doesn't bounce or warp.
- Post Concreting: For raised decks, support posts are concreted into the ground (Postcrete) to ensure absolute stability, regardless of the slope.
2. Choosing Your Timber: Softwood vs. Hardwood
The look and longevity of your deck depend entirely on the wood you choose.
Pressure Treated Softwood
This is the most popular choice for a reason. It is cost-effective and, when treated correctly (usually green or brown tanalised), offers a guarantee against rot for 10–15 years. It has a classic "garden" look and can be stained any colour you like.
Tropical Hardwood (Yellow Balau or Ipe)
For a premium finish that rivals interior flooring, hardwood is the answer. These timbers are incredibly dense and naturally resistant to rot and insects without heavy chemical treatments. They offer a darker, richer colour range (deep reds and browns) and are much harder to scratch than softwood. They are an investment, but they last for decades.
3. Design Features for Entertaining
If you are building a deck for parties and family gatherings, consider these design elements:
- Bi-Fold Flow: We can match the deck height to your indoor floor level (allowing for drainage), creating a seamless transition when your bi-fold doors are open.
- Built-in Seating: Save money on garden furniture by having us build bench seating around the perimeter. It acts as a safety barrier and provides storage underneath.
- Lighting: We can integrate LED spotlights into the steps or the perimeter boards, creating a warm ambience for evening drinks.
4. Anti-Slip Considerations
A common worry is that decking gets slippery in winter. This is usually caused by algae, not the wood itself. We recommend smooth boards rather than grooved ones. Contrary to popular belief, grooved boards trap dirt and water, encouraging algae growth. Smooth boards are easier to sweep clean and dry faster, making them safer year-round.
Get Ready for Summer
Whether you want a small platform for a bistro table or a multi-level entertainment zone, we can design it to fit your garden perfectly.
Featured Image Image * [A spacious timber deck made of rich hardwood, featuring a built-in corner bench with cushions, a dining table set for dinner, and warm string lights overhead] Image Alt Text * Hardwood garden decking installation with built-in seating in Bristol Tags Select Tags * Decking, Landscaping, Outdoor Living, Garden Design, Bristol SEO Settings Meta Title * Timber Deck Installation: Outdoor Living Spaces in Bristol Meta Description * Transform your garden with a custom timber deck. We build durable, stylish outdoor entertainment spaces in Bristol using premium soft and hardwoods.