Decking

Decking has picked up a bad name in Ireland during the boom, mostly because it was installed where it was not necessary, and secondly because of the maintenance required to keep it.

Decking is the ideal choice of material to create a hard surface where the gradient of the garden is acute i.e a sloping site. Also because a deck can be constructed to any elevation, it’s a good choice to maintain the floor level from inside the house to outside if the there is a big difference in heights.

Decking materials come in soft and hard woods, and also synthetic composites. The soft woods are the cheapest, but don’t last as long as hardwoods. Both these options require regular cleaning, and treatment with oils or preservatives. However, wood does provide a natural feel underfoot, and in appearance. Composites on the other hand, have a very long lifetime, and require no treatments other than washing.

Recessed lighting in decks is relatively easy to install, and like all garden lighting, extends the use of the garden both practically and visually.

Retro fitted anti slip strips, recently new to the market, are a quick method of ensuring safety, if regular maintenance is an issue.