Adding decking to your garden is an excellent way to create a stylish and practical outdoor space. Whether you’re entertaining friends, enjoying family time, or carving out a quiet retreat, decking enhances the usability and appeal of your garden area.
At Gripsure, Europe’s largest supplier of non-slip decking, we’re committed to helping you make the right choice. From selecting materials to ensuring durability and safety, this guide will walk you through every step of the process to getting the right decking to suit your space.
Why Include Decking in Your Garden?
There’s a reason why decking has been a mainstay in so many gardens throughout history – providing a sturdy, dry place to relax and enjoy the outdoors, regardless of weather opens up a world of opportunities for you, your family, and guests.
Here are some of the key reasons why you should consider including decking in your garden:
Aesthetic Appeal
Timber and bamboo decking bring a natural warmth to your garden, complementing plants and landscaping.
Functional Space
Decking creates defined areas for lounging, dining, or hosting, adding structure and purpose to your garden. Read more about How to Maximise Space with Multi-Level Decking Here.
Year-Round Usability
Gripsure’s non-slip decking ensures safety in all weather conditions, giving you peace of mind throughout the year. Furthermore, with our industry-leading experience, we ensure that your decking not only looks stunning but also stands the test of time.
Boosts Property Value
A well-designed deck enhances curb appeal and can increase your property’s resale value.
How to Choose Decking for Your Garden
Choosing the right decking involves balancing style, functionality, and sustainability. Here’s what to consider:
Material Matters
Picking the right materials is vital to ensuring your decking matches your aesthetic and functional requirements. Here are a few different materials to choose from:
- Timber Decking: A classic option, timber decking is celebrated for its natural beauty and longevity. Choose responsibly sourced wood, like Gripsure’s FSC® certified timber, to support sustainable forestry.
- Bamboo Decking: An eco-friendly alternative, bamboo decking offers strength, durability, and a sleek, contemporary look. Its rapid growth makes it a sustainable superstar.
- Composite Decking: Although it might lack the authentic charm of timber, it offers low-maintenance and fire safety, while generally providing a cheaper option to fit out your space.
Safety First
Slip-resistant decking and fire rated decking are essential. Especially in the UK’s rainy climate. non-slip surface provides grip, while fire rated materials protect you from hazards, ensuring your deck is safe for everyone.
Environmental Considerations
Gripsure is for the conscious buyer. Our decking products not only perform beautifully but are designed with sustainability in mind, combining responsible sourcing and long-lasting durability.
Design and Finish
Consider the tone and style of your garden. Light-coloured decking can make small spaces feel larger, while rich, dark tones add warmth and luxury to expansive gardens.
For some inspiration, look at our architect’s guide on the latest trends in decking >
What Timber to Use for Your Decking Frame
The frame is the backbone of your deck, so it’s crucial to choose durable, high-quality timber. Look for pressure-treated softwood or hardwoods resistant to decay and pests. Treated timber ensures long-lasting performance, providing a stable base for your deck while maintaining structural integrity for years to come.
Explore the range of materials available at Gripsure here >
How to Make the Most of Timber Decking
Timber decking is versatile, offering endless possibilities for customisation. Here are some tips to maximise its potential:
- Regular Maintenance: Keep your deck looking its best with routine cleaning and treatment to protect against weathering.
- Layer Your Landscape: Use decking to create levels in your garden, adding dimension and interest to the space.
- Accessorise with Greenery: Complement timber’s natural look with potted plants, climbers, or even a living wall for a stunning, eco-friendly feature.
- Lighting Matters: Add ambiance with integrated LED lighting, perfect for evening relaxation or alfresco dining.
Case Study: The Lost Gardens of Heligan
An example of decking’s transformative potential can be seen at The Lost Gardens of Heligan in Cornwall. This 200-acre estate, once lost to time, was restored to its former glory in the 1990s and now stands as one of the UK’s most stunning gardens.
Featuring themed gardens, including a jungle garden and an Italian garden, Heligan’s restoration integrates decking seamlessly into its landscapes, allowing visitors to explore diverse environments safely and comfortably. The estate also champions sustainability with a productive farm and wildlife conservation projects.
The non-slip decking plays a key role in visitors’ experiences, ensuring pathways remain accessible in all weather conditions. Whether wandering through the jungle garden or relaxing by the walled garden, visitors can enjoy the estate’s beauty with complete confidence.
Create the Right Fit for Your Decking with Gripsure
With over 15 years of industry-leading performance and a reputation as Europe’s largest supplier of non-slip decking, Gripsure offers products that are as safe as they are beautiful. Our decking solutions are perfect for both residential and commercial spaces, and our commitment to sustainability ensures your choice is kind to the environment.
Ready to transform your garden? Explore our range of timber and bamboo decking or contact our team for expert advice.
Explore the latest trends in decking >
Find out about our recent appearance at the ERC conference >