Imagine stepping out your back door and into a beautifully designed outdoor haven, where you can relax, entertain, and enjoy the fresh air. That dream can become a reality with a well-designed decking space. Let’s go through everything you need to know to transform your backyard into the perfect outdoor retreat. From choosing the right materials to adding the finishing touches, we’ve got you covered.
Understanding Your Space
Before diving into design ideas, take a moment to assess your backyard. Look at the size and shape of your space, and consider any existing features that might impact your decking project. Is there a lot of sunlight, or do you need to account for shady spots? How about the wind? Understanding these factors will help you design a decking area that’s comfortable and practical.
Next, think about what you want from your new decking space. Are you envisioning a lively area for entertaining guests, a tranquil spot for relaxation, or a combination of both? Defining your goals and needs will guide your design choices and ensure the final result meets your expectations. You can view lots of ideas here.
Choosing the Right Decking Material
When it comes to decking, the material you choose can make a big difference in both appearance and functionality. Let’s break down the main options:
Wood Decking: Classic and natural, wood decking offers warmth and a timeless aesthetic. However, it requires regular maintenance to prevent weathering and decay. If you love the look of wood and don’t mind a bit of upkeep, this could be the choice for you.
Composite Decking: Made from a blend of wood fibers and plastic, composite decking is low-maintenance and durable. It resists stains and fading, making it a great option if you want a deck that looks good with minimal effort. The downside? It can be pricier than traditional wood.
PVC Decking: This material is highly durable and virtually maintenance-free. It’s resistant to moisture, insects, and UV damage. However, it can be quite costly and might not have the same natural feel as wood or composite options.
By comparing these materials, you can choose the one that best fits your needs, budget, and aesthetic preferences.
Designing Your Deck
Once you’ve selected your material, it’s time to design your deck. Start by deciding on the layout. Options range from simple single-level decks to more elaborate multi-level or wrap-around designs. Your choice will depend on your backyard’s size and your personal style.
Next, think about the style and theme. Your deck should complement the architecture of your home and reflect your personal taste. Whether you prefer a modern look or a rustic charm, aligning your decking design with your home’s character will create a cohesive and appealing outdoor space.
Color schemes are another important consideration. Choose colors that complement your home and garden. Decking materials often come in various shades, so you can match or contrast with your existing decor. Popular choices include natural wood tones, cool greys, and rich earth tones.
Decking patterns can also make a significant impact. From classic straight lays to intricate herringbone or diagonal patterns, the design you choose can add visual interest and personality to your deck.
Adding Comfort and Style
To make your decking space truly comfortable, think about the furniture and textiles you’ll use. Durable outdoor furniture should be both stylish and practical, with materials that can withstand the elements.
Outdoor rugs and cushions are great for adding a pop of color and extra comfort. Choose fabrics that are designed for outdoor use to ensure they hold up well over time.
Shade solutions can make your deck more comfortable during hot summer days. Options like umbrellas, pergolas, or retractable awnings can provide relief from the sun while adding to the deck’s style.
Why Decking is Better than Paving?
Do you want to have a space where you can go outside with your morning coffee? Do you want to relax with your family in the evenings and unwind after a hard day? Having an outdoor living space is the answer, especially somewhere to walk out from if you have patio doors.
There are two popular choices when it comes to creating an outdoor area. You can go for decking or choose paving. Most people decide that decking is the best option since it has many advantages over putting down paving slabs. Let’s take a look at what they are.
Better for Uneven Ground
There’s a lot of preparation that will go into paving if you have uneven ground. You’ll have to level everything first and prepare the ground before you can start laying the slabs. But, many people say they find it easier to build decking. It works better where there’s uneven terrain, which can make your life easier. The best thing to do is take a look at tutorials online and see whether this is a task you can deal with.
Creates Levels
Would you like to create different levels in your garden? This can be for aesthetic appeal or because of the way your garden is designed in the first place. It’s also better to build levels with decking. For example, if you have a high door in your garden and don’t want to build a step, you can use decking to meet the door and transition into the garden. This isn’t easy to achieve without a lot of hard work and many paving slabs.
More Style
Most people admit that they prefer the style of decking over paving. You can choose lovely composite materials, which are available in a variety of colors. Paving slabs tend to be boring and if you already have some in your garden, you might be looking for a nice change. So, be aware that you’ll have plenty of choices for decking and selecting a style that transforms your garden.
