Building a deck

If you're considering building a deck, then you may be wondering how much it will all cost.

Ultimately, the cost of building a deck depends on the size of the project and what materials you're using. It's also worth noting that DIY deck installation will take a few days of work.

Building a deck is a very exciting project to undertake - not only can a deck boost your property's value, it can also serve as an outdoor venue for social gatherings.

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what decking material lasts the longest, easy clean edge oak decking with sunbeds, overlooking beautiful sunset
 
 
In the UK, a well-designed and fitted deck can add up to 10% value to your home. There are many benefits to installing a deck onto your property, as it extends a buyer’s perception of the amount of usable living space.

Decks aren’t only great for financial purposes, but they also offer an aesthetic appeal. Decking is an ideal, low-maintenance space where you can host, relax, and enjoy the environment around you to its fullest.

But what would be the point in installing a deck if it didn’t last? There are many different types of decking, each with their own advantages, but what decking material lasts the longest
 

Decking is a great way to revitalise your outdoor space and breathe fresh life into your garden. Composite decking is a diverse material choice, available in a wide variety of different colours and designs that emulate that aesthetic of traditional wood decking.

Composite decking is also a fantastic decking material due to its low-maintenance, cost-effective nature, and long lifespan.

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Before you can begin the process of transforming your garden, you'll need to know how much decking to order. We've put together the following guide to help you purchase the right number of boards.

Decking boards alongside hot tub

Pictured: WeatherDek Aged Oak Composite Decking

By following these steps carefully, you can get an accurate estimate of your decking area. These steps work best if you're trying to calculate the area for a square or rectangular deck. If you are interested in installing an irregular shaped deck, please contact the DeckPlus team for advice.

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Benefits of Hidden Deck Fasteners

In our professional opinion, the best and most attractive way to install your composite decking is with hidden fasteners!

Depending on the type of composite decking board you choose, you are able to use hidden fasteners to ‘soft install’ your decking, resulting in a cleaner, more attractive-looking deck. Composite deck boards with a grooved edge allow hidden fasteners to be placed on either side and then screwed down into the deck’s frame. Meaning deck screws do not have to be drilled into the deck’s body, avoiding damage to the board and ensuring longevity. This is what provides a perfect, clean finish.

Types of Fasteners

There are two types of fasteners available to use when installing a deck; starter fasteners and hidden fasteners.

Starter fasteners are required by nearly all deck installations. This is the metal clip used to install and secure the very first and last deck boards of each run. Its purpose is to provide stability to the outer deck, resulting in the longevity of the deck’s body.

Hidden fasteners are the fasteners that create the gap between each individual board, which are secured and drilled down at each crossover of board and joist. Their purpose is to hold the boards in place across the main body of the deck and come with a whole host of features and benefits, including;

  • Easy installation, either pneumatically or using a drill
  • Available in a variety of sizes for different project types
  • Concealed to preserve the deck’s clean finish
  • Less likely to succumb to damage
  • Less risk for pets, children and feet
  • Built-in spacer provides a uniform gap between each board

Why does there have to be a gap between boards?

DeckPlus’ composite decking requires a gap between each board of 3-5mm in order for the warranty to be satisfied. This is to account for expansion and contraction of the deck boards within a variety of climates. If boards are not installed with an appropriate gap, there is a risk that the deck’s warranty will be void. Hidden fasteners enable you to install your boards with the correct gap in between, avoiding any potential issues with your deck’s warranty.

Here at DeckPlus, our hidden deck fasteners are available in different size options, catering for a variety of projects. Whether you’re looking to install a small deck or a large one, we have the hidden fasteners to match. Visit our decking accessories page today to learn more about the hidden fasteners options that we have available.

You can also find more information and instructions on our hidden deck fasteners within our installation resources. Click below to find out more!

Browse Installation Resources >

Want to speak to a member of the DeckPlus team about our hidden deck fasteners, composite deck boards or anything else? Do not hesitate to get in touch with us today. We’d be more than happy to hear from you.