Whether you are looking to add a beautiful space on which to entertain or design an area that will act as the centrepiece of your garden; decking is the perfect answer.  However, you can’t place your decking project just anywhere in the garden and there are several factors you must take into account before finalising your project designs.  Here are a few design tips that should help you plan the perfect decking project.

Considering planning permission

When deciding on where you will build your decking the first thing that needs to be considered is limitations that may be imposed by planning regulations.  If you want to avoid the bother of applying for planning permission then be sure to place decking no closer than 20 metres from a main road and no higher than 3 metres.  If your decking is going to be higher than 3 metres there is the chance that it can obscure the view of neighbours, so planning permission must be sought.

Weather and household amenities

Most of us that install decking intend to use it to enjoy the warm weather during summer; so be sure to consider which areas of your garden see the Sun for the longest periods.  You should also take into account any items that could provide protection from the wind, such as fences, buildings and trees.  Don’t forget to factor in any amenities that your decking could interfere with, like drains and air-vents.

Getting the size right

In order to get the look of your decking installation correct it is essential to take into consideration its size in relation to your property.  The aim with all decking is to make it look as though it was part of the original house design.  This will not be the case if you add just a small area of decking onto the side or back of a large property.  Likewise a deck that is too big for a property or that is built in a confided outdoor area can also look out of place.

Sloped gardens

Installing decking in sloped gardens is a fantastic way of adding level surfaces.  Not only does this approach add an interesting design feature to the garden, it also makes the space more usable.  For larger gardens or ones with especially steep slopes you even have the option of building multi-level decking.

Designing online

Richard Burbidge provides an innovative online tool which offers an easy way to design your decking project and balustrade system.  For more information on Richard Burbidge’s Deckplanner™ visit the decking section of their website.