Frequently Asked Questions

Below is a list of the most comon questions we are asked about garden decking:

1. How long will my deck last?
2. Does a deck need lots of maintenance?
3. Is my garden/site suitable for a deck?
4. Is there different types of wood you can use for your deck?
5. Do I need planning permission to have a deck installed?
6. Do decks get slippery when its wet?

1. How long will my deck last?

Timber Decking offers outstanding longevity and will last for many years, with the treated timbers supplied with a 20 year manufacturers warranty.
The majority of decks in the Uk are constructed with softwoods from the forests of North America, UK and Scandinavia. All are pressure treated to guarantee long term performance. Modern pressure treatments permanently protect timber from wood decay and insect attack. So you can be assured of many trouble free years from a timber deck.
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2. Does a deck need lots of maintenance?

Timber decking requires very little in the way of routine maintenance.
The softwood species used by Ecosse Decking requires no further preservative treatments, and can be kept looking good with regular brushing and a once a year clean using a pressure washer or stiff brush.
However if a customer chooses to use a wood stain or other colouring on their deck then this would have to be reapplyed as and when necessary.
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3. Is my garden/site suitable for a deck?

Decking offers the ultimate in flexibility and can be easily adapted to almost any site, whether raised, multi-level, island or around existing structures or obstacles.
It also minimises excavation, foundations and retaining walls common to hard landscaping options.
Although a deck can be built virtually anywhere, you may wish to consider what you want from the deck before a final decision on the site is agreed. Requirements such as sun or shade, prevailing wind, access to power/water, and what you intend to use the deck for are useful things to consider during the design stage.
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4. Is there different types of wood you can use for your deck?

There are many hardwood and softwood options available. Hardwood decking is more expensive and requires more in the way of maintenance to maintain its looks. In general Grade1 Southern Pine softwoods offer the best value and as such are the most widely used in all decking applications.
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5. Do I need planning permission to have a deck installed?

Generally speaking when installed as an addition to an existing property, decks do not need planning permision.
However if you live in a conservation area or have any doubts, you should contact your local planning office.
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6. Do decks get slippery when its wet?

Deck boards like any flat surface can get slippery if wet and especially when debris or algae is allowed to build up.
However the use of properly laid grooved deck boards and routine cleaning, ensures that any water drains quickly from the surfaces and therefore prevents the chance of you slipping.
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