Timber decking in Sandwich

Deck builds we do

• Ground-level deck - joists on concrete pads with damp-proof spacers, board face at or just above the surrounding ground. The usual choice for a patio replacement.
• Low-raised (150-600mm) - joists on treated posts concreted in, sub-frame ventilated properly, board face level with a threshold or step from a rear door.
• Raised (over 600mm) - joists on longer posts, matching timber balustrade to Building Regs (1.1m minimum handrail for over 600mm above ground with fall).

Boards

Softwood treated is the default - grooved (reverse smooth is better anti-slip) or smooth face, 28mm or 32mm thick. Hardwood is available where budget allows, longer lifespan and less annual care. Composite is an option but we will tell you honestly it looks composite up close.

The build we quote

• Treated posts concreted 600mm in ground
• Treated joists at 400mm centres (300mm centres for grooved decking to reduce flex)
• Damp-proof spacers between joists and board where boards meet posts
• Screwed-down (not nailed) boards, stainless-steel or coated-decking screws
• Balustrade to Building Regs on any deck above 600mm
• Skirt or ventilation gap around the perimeter to keep the sub-frame drying out

Fence tie-in

Where a deck meets an existing fence run, we cut the deck around the posts (not the other way round) and leave a 10mm drainage gap. That stops the deck holding water against the fence base - which is what kills a lot of retrofit decks around here.

How it's priced

Timber decking supply-and-fit is priced per square metre for a standard low-level treated softwood build. Raised decks with balustrade cost more per square metre than ground-level runs. Hardwood is a separate quote.