Key Takeaways -

• DIY saves money but requires time, tools, and skill to avoid costly mistakes.
• Professional installation ensures quality, durability, and compliance with UK regulations.
• Simple designs suit DIY, while complex decks with features are best left to professionals.
• Consider budget, time, and long-term maintenance before making a decision.

Building garden decking can be a great way to improve your outdoor space, but should you do it yourself or hire a professional? DIY can save money, but it takes time and skill. Hiring a professional costs more but ensures a high-quality, durable result.

This article will cover the key things to think about when deciding, including costs, effort, and long-term durability. It will also highlight the challenges of DIY and the benefits of professional installation.

Keep reading to find out which option is best for you. Whether you want to save money or get a hassle-free, professional finish, understanding the pros and cons will help you make the right choice for your garden decking.

DIY vs. Professional Decking Installation

Cost Comparison: Is DIY Really Cheaper?

DIY Costs

DIY decking is often cheaper, with material costs ranging from £20–£50 per square metre. A basic project typically costs £1,000–£2,000, excluding tools. You’ll need saws, drills, safety gear, and other equipment, which adds to the expense.

Labour makes up around 65% of professional costs, making DIY appealing. However, mistakes can lead to wasted materials and future repairs, increasing overall costs.

Professional Installation Costs

Hiring a professional costs between £3,000–£10,000, depending on materials and complexity. This includes labour, design expertise, and compliance with UK building regulations. Professional deck builders offer warranties and ensure high-quality work, which can save money on long-term repairs.

Installing Decking: How Much Time Can You Invest?

DIY Time Commitment

Building a deck yourself requires clearing the ground, laying weed-control fabric, and levelling the area. You’ll then build the frame with joists, secure decking boards, and add finishes. This process can take several weekends, especially if mistakes or bad weather cause delays.

Lack of experience and proper tools can slow progress further.

Professional Installation Timeline

Professionals handle everything from permits and design to construction, ensuring efficiency. Most projects are completed within a few days, saving you time and effort. They also prevent costly errors and ensure the deck is built to last.

Quality of Work: DIY Precision vs. Professional Expertise

DIY Quality Challenges

DIY projects often lead to common mistakes like uneven boards, improper drainage, and weak structures. Long-term durability can be an issue, with risks of warping, rot, or loose boards.

A survey found that 53.96% of DIY enthusiasts worry about quality, and poor workmanship may lead to expensive repairs (1).

Professional Craftsmanship

Professionals have experience with different materials and complex designs. They follow UK building regulations and safety codes, ensuring durability. Many companies offer guarantees, such as Deckbuilders’ “triple guarantee,” providing peace of mind.

Safety Concerns: Are You Prepared for DIY Risks?

Potential Hazards of DIY Installation

DIY decking requires power tools, heavy lifting, and working at heights. Poorly built decks can become unstable, posing safety risks. Injuries like cuts, strains, or falls are common, especially for beginners.

Professional Safety Standards

Professionals adhere to UK safety regulations and use correct building techniques. They manage risks like proper drainage, securing footings, and load-bearing capacity. Insurance coverage also protects homeowners from unexpected issues.

Personal Satisfaction: The Reward of a DIY Decking Installation

The Enjoyment Factor

Building your own deck can be highly rewarding. You’ll learn woodworking skills, gain confidence, and have full control over materials, patterns, and design. The sense of accomplishment from a successful DIY project is priceless.

Frustration and Setbacks

DIY projects come with unexpected challenges, from misalignments to supply shortages. Fixing mistakes can be time-consuming and costly, making the installation process frustrating. If patience and problem-solving aren’t your strengths, hiring a professional may be a better option.

Factors to Help You Decide: DIY or Professional Installation?

Your Budget and Financial Considerations

DIY offers short-term cost savings, but mistakes can lead to costly repairs. Decking materials alone cost £1,000–£2,000, while professional installation can range from £3,000–£10,000. Labour makes up a significant portion of professional costs, but it ensures quality and durability.

Hidden costs in DIY include tool purchases, material waste, and fixing errors. Investing in professionals may cost more upfront but can prevent expensive issues later.

Your Time Availability

DIY decking can take several weekends to complete, especially if you're learning as you go. You’ll need time for planning, preparing materials, and deck construction. If you have a busy schedule, balancing work, family, and decking installation can be challenging.

Professionals complete the job in days, giving you more time to enjoy your outdoor space rather than spending weeks building it.

Your Skill Level and Experience

If you have experience with woodworking, power tools, or previous DIY projects, tackling decking yourself may be feasible. However, accurate measuring, cutting, and assembling are essential for a stable deck.

If you’re not confident in following detailed guides or troubleshooting issues, a professional can ensure the job is done correctly, avoiding costly mistakes.

Complexity of the Decking Design

For small, rectangular decks with minimal features, DIY can be a good option. However, multi-level designs, curved edges, built-in seating, or lighting require expert skills. Composite decking also needs special tools and knowledge.

If your design is complex, a professional installer will have the expertise to execute it properly, ensuring a long-lasting and visually appealing result.

Desired Quality and Durability

Timber decking is cost-effective but needs regular staining and sealing to maintain durability. Softwood is cheaper but requires maintenance, while hardwood lasts longer but is more expensive. Composite decking is low-maintenance, slip-resistant, and weatherproof, though it has a higher upfront cost.

If you want a long-lasting deck, professional installation provides precision, durability, and warranties, giving you peace of mind.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Type of Foundation Is Best for Garden Decking?

The best foundation for garden decking depends on the soil type, drainage, and deck height. Common options include concrete slabs, ground screws, and wooden posts. Concrete slabs provide a stable, long-lasting base, while ground screws are ideal for soft or uneven terrain.

Wooden posts work well for raised decks, ensuring strong structural support and longevity.

How Do I Ensure Proper Drainage for My Decking?

To ensure proper drainage, install decking with a slight slope (1–2% gradient) away from your home. Leave 3–5mm gaps between boards to allow water to drain efficiently. Using weed-control fabric and a gravel base beneath the deck helps prevent water buildup.

Regularly clean debris from gaps and drainage channels to maintain effective water flow.

Conclusion

Deciding between DIY or professional installation for garden decking depends on your budget, time, skill level, and project complexity. DIY can save money and offer a sense of accomplishment, but it requires patience, the right tools, and a willingness to learn.

Hiring a professional ensures high-quality, durable results, compliance with regulations, and a faster, hassle-free process. If you have the skills and time, DIY could be a rewarding challenge. However, for complex designs or long-term reliability, professional installation is the safer choice.

Carefully assess your priorities to make the best decision for your outdoor space.

Sources -

1. https://www.dino.co.uk/5-key-factors-to-consider-when-choosing-between-diy-and-professional-decking-installation/