Composite decking is a type of decking made from wood and plastic fibres that are bound together with a bonding agent. Composite decking is one of the most favoured alternatives to timber decking as it gives the same wooden-facing appeal of timber decking but comes without the high maintenance of many timber products.
Composite decking has a big lifespan and will widely outlast any timber decking. Due to its long lifespan and the actual process of making it, composite decking is more expensive to lay, but the longevity of the product does make it a good investment in your property.
Our guide will cover how much composite decking is likely to cost, what will affect the cost, how you can save money on the cost and the best way to hire a decking installer.
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How Much Does a Composite Deck Cost?
Composite decking does vary in price and it almost entirely depends on individual requirements. The below table examines the estimated costs for composite decking per square metre.
| Size | Material Cost per Square Metre | Labour Costs per Day | Time Required | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Small deck (15 square metres) | £500-£1,000 | £400 | Two days | £900-£1,400 |
| Medium deck (30 square metres) | £1,000-£2,000 | £600 | Four days | £1,800-£2,800 |
| Large deck (45 square metres) | £1,000-£2,000 | £800 | Four to five days | £2,000-£3,000 |
Composite decking is likely to cost around £100 for one metre squared but this price estimate is likely to vary depending on the installers and the quality of the flooring. It’s a good idea to compare quotes where possible, to see which installers offer the cheapest option.
An average 15 square metre composite decking is likely to cost between £1,000-£1,500 for the entire construction including materials, labour costs and waste materials.
Do bear in mind that some tradespeople may charge additional costs for any sealant or adhesives that need to be used in the decking construction.
These sealants and adhesives will help to preserve the longevity and stability of the decking so make sure to find out what their purpose is and how they will help the overall construction of the build.
Composite decking is typically going to be more expensive than timber decking, as the materials used in composite decking is more expensive than timber, but, as mentioned above, the longevity of composite decking makes it a solid investment purchase with much lower maintenance than timber decking.
If you’re looking to have composite decking laid down in your garden, a great way to compare quotes and find out the average cost for its installation is to use HouseholdQuotes to find the perfect tradesperson that can get the job done!
Click To Get QuotesWhat Affects the Cost of Composite Decking?
Various factors affect the cost of composite decking, and one of the most common is the accessories that can be added to the decking. The table below breaks down composite decking accessories and their estimated cost.
| Accessories | Estimated Costs |
|---|---|
| Supporting Joists | £5-£20 |
| Postcrete Cement | £5 per 20-kilogram bag |
| Composite Railing or Balustrade Kits | £70-£150 per kit |
| Individual Handrails | £20-£40 |
| Individual Newel Posts | £20-£30 |
| Newel Post Caps | £3-£6 |
| Individual Spindles | £1-£2 |
| Composite Step and Stringer Kits | £100-£150 |
| Individual Step Risers or Stringers | £20-£40 |
| Composite Fascias | £14-£20 |
| Fixing Screws for Deck Boards, Handrails, and Stringers | £15-£50 |
| Decking Risers for Levelling | £30-£35 |
| LED Lights | £15-£50 per pack |
| Anti-weed membrane | £10-£30 |
| Gravel | £40-£60 per bulk bag |
As you can see, any of these accessories can add to the final cost of your composite decking, depending entirely on what features you want to be included and the total look of the decking at its completion.
Some of these accessories, such as anti-weed membranes and sealants and oils will add to the lifespan of the product, so though the initial cost may be more, it could very well extend the duration of the decking and keep the costs of maintenance and/or repairs much lower in the long run.
Keep in mind that accessories are not the only factors that can impact the final cost of composite decking. Below, we take a look at common factors that you can expect to affect your composite decking cost:
Size
As you can see from the table above, size will have a definite impact on the total cost of composite decking.
The larger the decking, the more materials will need to be used and the more labour will potentially be needed, meaning the final cost will be more expensive than a smaller and easier to install decking.
If you’re operating to a lower budget, consider opting for a smaller decking to ensure that the cost for materials and labour is lowered.
Shape
The shape of your garden is also likely to have an impact on the final cost of composite decking. If you require your decking to be a unique shape, one that includes curves and bends, then it’s likely this could increase the final cost.
This is because specific cuts will need to be made to the board to create the required shape. Prices for decking that is not a standard straight-line shape will vary depending on the installer and the material used.
If you were planning to install your decking in an area of your garden that is curved, consider if the location of the decking can be moved to somewhere where straight boards can be used without needing adjustments to keep the final cost of the decking down.
Type
Three very common types of composite decking are most popular with homeowners and it’s a good idea to do a little more research into each type to see which would best suit your needs.
WPC decking (wood composite decking) is the cheaper choice of decking and has the look of classic wood decking. It is typically made with a combination of recycled plastics and wood fibres.
Most WPC decking is hardier than timber as it has a low water absorption rate which heightens the performance of the product without sacrificing the classic wooden appeal of the aesthetic.
High-quality WPC decking does not usually require regular sealing, staining, or sanding, and so is more cost-effective if compared to the typical maintenance required with timber decking.
This type of decking ranges from £25-£55 per metre squared.
Capped decking is a slightly more expensive option but is incredibly durable in all weather conditions. Capped decked has hard-wearing boards that are long-lasting and unlikely to warp, rot or splinter.
Capped decking is slightly different from other composite decking as the boards are coated in a moisture-resistant polymer sleeve, protecting the decking from stains and spillages.
This is the perfect solution for a decking that may be used for hosting dinner nights or have children, as spillages can be easily wiped clean without fear of staining.
This type of decking ranges from £30-£60 per metre squared.
If you have a large budget, you may want to consider PVC decking which is incredibly high-quality decking material. Unlike timber and composite decking, PVC decking does not contain wood fibres and is instead made from a PVC material.
PVC is a very strong, synthetic material that creates the highest performance decking boards currently available on the market. PVC decking products are incorporated with a UV resistant, insect repellent and low maintenance ASA resin to prevent the boards from failing, rotting and warping.
This type of decking ranges from £35-£85 per metre squared.
Design
There will be a difference in cost based on the design of your composite decking. If you are planning to install a simple ground-level design, then you can expect the final cost of this decking to be lower than a raised multi-level design.
Whilst small single level decking will cost you from £1,000-£1,500 a larger, multi-layer decking could cost from £2,500 upwards.
This is because multi-level designs are considered a more premium product and may need to be bought from specialists, increasing the cost substantially.
Multi-level designs can also vary in material type, meaning you could purchase a multi-level WPC decking that would still cost more than a single-level decking, but would not be as expensive as a PVC decking.
Multi-level decking that includes accessories or a large number of stairs will also come at a higher cost. It can cost you £10 for a set of three steps or if you are after a more developed decking, then it could cost up to £1,000 for a full staircase
Installation Accessories
It’s a good idea to consider whether you will want any installation accessories for your decking as they can add to the overall appeal of the decking but can also increase the safety of the decking.
Check out the table above for a breakdown of installation accessories and their estimated costs.
How Much Preparation is Required
The ground where you want the decking to be installed may need to undergo some preparation before decking installation can begin.
If there’s any roots, plants or shrubs in the area these will need to be dug out and the ground levelled, as decking can only be placed on an even, level surface.
If you have the tools and are abled-bodied, you could remove the shrubbery yourself before the decking is installed to keep costs down.
Ground preparation should be included in the final cost of composite decking installation, but it’s a good idea to check with the tradesperson or company beforehand what their policies are if you’re unsure.
Maintenance
Composite decking is very low maintenance in comparison to timber decking. Depending on the type of decking you get it can be rot-proof, extremely durable in the elements and, if fitted correctly from the onset, won’t succumb to warping.
However, if you’d like to go the extra mile and ensure that your decking has further maintenance added on top, it’s a good idea to check out the oils and sealants that can be applied to decking to extend its longevity.
Depending on what you purchase, they can add extra water resistance, insect repellent and fading prevention to your decking. Whilst it may be more expensive to purchase these initially, it could be beneficial and cost-effective in the long run.
These tend to cost £20-£40 per 5 litres.
How Can I Save Money on a Composite Deck?
There are a few things you can do to make sure you keep the cost of a composite deck relatively low.
Firstly, keep the design of the deck as simple as possible. Stairs, multiple levels, intricately designed balustrades and newel posts and any further accessories, such as LED lights, will all add to the final cost.
The initial design of the decking should be relatively simple if you want to keep costs down and you can consider adding accessories to the decking at a later point if that’s what you desire.
You can maximise the lifespan of your deck by maintaining it every year. Garden decking of any kind, including composite decking, will need to undergo regular maintenance.
Composite decking does require less maintenance than timber decking, but this does not mean the decking can be left entirely unmaintained as you will quickly notice a deterioration in the quality of your decking.
You will still need to carry out some basic maintenance for your decking to keep it in the best condition possible. If you spill any food, oil or grease on the deck it will need to be wiped up as quickly as possible.
Spray off any initial spillages with a hose and then use warm, soapy water and a soft-bristle brush to remove the rest of the spillage and prevent it from staining the embossing pattern of the boards.
Pollen and dirt may also naturally build up on your decking, and if they are not cleaned off your decking, could lead to mould growing on the biofilm. Again, use a hose and warm, soapy water with a soft brush to remove the mould and maintain the condition of your decking.
The good news is that decking maintenance tends to be relatively straightforward and not very time-consuming. Basic maintenance such as regular brushing to remove any debris – such as fallen leaves or dirt – or the application of a water-repellent coating will prevent the need for preservative treatments in the long run.
It’s best to aim to clean your composite decking in this way a couple of times a year, with spring being the best season for the job.
Keep in mind that composite decking cannot be sanded in the same way as wood decking, so if you’re seeking to remove any dents they will likely need to be replaced. This could cost you from £60-£70 per square metre.
Depending on the quality of the board material that you choose, however, it is unlikely that the decking will need to be sanded or even resealed due to the longevity of its lifespan.
A great way to further keep the costs down is to use HouseholdQuotes and let us help you find a qualified tradesperson in your area to help build your perfect composite decking in line with your budget.
Click To Get QuotesIs Composite Decking the Best Material for a Deck?
Composite decking is not the only type of material available for decking purposes. The table below takes a look at some of the other options available on the market for you if you’re not quite sure if composite decking is the right option for you.
| Decking Type | Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|---|
| Composite decking | - Very durable -Low maintenance after installation -Sustainable option as very few replacements are needed | -Expensive in comparison to other materials -More materials required for the board creations -Not totally natural as they do contain plastics |
| Timber decking | -Less expensive than composite decking -Beautiful aesthetic appeal of natural wood -Less materials needed | -High and regular maintenance required to maintain quality -Shorter lifespan in comparison to other materials -Not weather-resistant and could potentially rot and fade |
| Stone patios | -Large variety of colours and sizes to choose from -Easy to install -Natural appearance that looks great in more traditional gardens | -Moisture absorbent -Prone to cracking in weather conditions -More expensive than a concrete patio |
| Concrete patios | -Less prone to insects and bugs -Provides additional living space -Less expensive than stone patio | -Safety risks with such a hard surface -Can be prone to cracking in weather conditions -Expensive to install due to the material’s nature |
| Slate patios | -Waterproof -Very durable -Low maintenance after initial installation | -Can be slippery and increase safety risks -Will become very cold in the winter -Not ideal for DIY installation |
| Brick patios | -Very durable -Will maintain original appearance -Classic style that has high appeal | -Typically more expensive than other material options -Fewer design options available -High maintenance after initial installation |
How Do I Find and Hire Someone to Build My Deck?
Try and seek recommendations from your friends or family who have had a composite decking laid by a professional and were happy with the service provided. This way you can trust the tradesperson or company coming to complete the project.
Use HouseholdQuotes to find a qualified tradesperson to build your ideal composite decking!
Click To Get QuotesEnsuring the Professional Is the Right Fit
To make sure you’ve found the best person for the job, we recommend you ask them for the below:
- For a written quote. Make sure to find out if there is an additional charge for any sealants or oils they may use on the decking during and after installation.
- For their experience.
- For their references. If they’re able to provide you with references you can be sure of their ability and may even be able to see some photos of their previous work.
- If they and their tools are insured. This can protect you from lawsuits if they or your property is damaged when they come to your home.
- If they have a guarantee for their parts and/or labour.
Final Checklist
This checklist will make sure you’ve got everything you need before you begin the process of hiring a professional to build your composite decking:
- Consider the size of the decking and measure the area where you would like the decking to go to find out what size and budget you will be looking at when it comes to purchasing.
- If you want to have a larger or unusually shaped decking, expect to pay more if hiring a professional.
- Consider what type of material you’d like your decking to be made of and what kind of style would be best suited for you.
- Take into account any ground preparation that may need to be done and, if possible, cut the costs further by doing this yourself.
- Use HouseholdQuotes to compare quotes between professionals who can install your ideal composite decking.
Click To Get QuotesFrequently Asked Questions
Do I Need Planning Permission to Build a Deck?
If the decking you wish to install does not break any of the above regulations, then you don’t need to be given planning permission and can begin with the installation.
If you are planning to build a multi-level decking with multiple stairs that are going to take up a lot of space in your garden, it may be best to speak with a member of your local Planning Office about whether or not the decking breaks any of the decking regulations specified above.
As a general rule of thumb, make sure to check with your local Planning Office before you go ahead with the build of your deck if you are not completely sure that it adheres to the guidelines.
How Long Do Composite Decks Last?
Higher quality decking materials, such as PVC, often come with an even longer guarantee, such as 20 years, so if you have the budget and it is the longevity that you’re looking for in the project, then consider using PVC boards.
Are Composite Decks Slippery?
Take care to clear away the deck after any bad weather as this is when planting is most likely to occur on your decking. A plastic shovel can be used to remove any snow from the deck and calcium chloride, or rock salt is ideal for melting the snow and ice from the deck surface.
With higher quality decks, such as capped or PVC decking, the risk of your deck becoming slippery is substantially lowered due to the material that comprises the board. You’re much more likely to find a timber decking to become slippery than you will a composite deck, but the possibility is not completely out of the equation.
Can I Build a Deck Myself?
If you do have the tools and sufficient DIY knowledge to build the deck, then you must first make sure that the ground on which you want to lay your decking is even. Be sure to remove weeds, rocks and turfs from the location as this could all lead to an uneven installation.
You will then need to decide if you will be laying the decking directly onto the ground, onto a concrete base or on a solid footing structure.
Once this has been decided, construction of the decking can begin according to the manufacturer’s instructions for the boards you are using. Whilst you can build a composite deck on your own, the process will be sped along if you have an extra pair of hands so see if a family member or friend can help you out before you begin.
If you do decide to lay a composite deck yourself, make sure you stay safe during the process and wear the necessary protective gear such as goggles and masks during the installation to prevent injury.
In Which Direction Should I Lay the Decking Boards?
If you’re simply placing your decking in the garden, you have more options to run the boards whichever way you desire. Boards are usually placed horizontally for aesthetic reasons, but if this will hinder water drainage you may need to place the boards vertically instead.