Composite decking, which is an artificial wood-plastic-composite, has gained popularity in recent years due to its robust, low-maintenance material properties and visual similarity to wood. Find out what composite decking entails, what the average composite decking cost per m2 in the UK is and how best to save on installation here.
How much does composite decking cost in the UK?
The average composite decking cost is around £125 – £200 per square meter in the UK. The cost of materials varies depending on the quality level (e.g. wood content) and design and is usually between £35 – £70 per sqm.
Average: £125 – £200 per m2
In addition, there are labor costs for installation and cutting, preparation or construction of the foundation and construction of a stable substructure. In some cases, there may be additional costs for the removal of an old floor.
Since the installation of composite decking is relatively simple and quick, the cost is usually about £30 – £60 per sqm. The cost of the foundation, composite decking substructure and the necessary materials (including special mounting clips) is about £50 – £100 per sqm. If the old floor has to be removed beforehand, the average cost is £15 – £20 per sqm.
For a better overview we have prepared an example of composite decking cost for a 30 m2 area. Higher quality composite decking boards (mix ratio 90/10 – wood/plastic) are used and the work takes place in a suburb of London. The figures listed are estimates including VAT and may of course vary.
Example: Composite Decking Cost – UK – 30 m2
1 m² | 30 m² | |
|---|---|---|
Composite decking boards | £50 | £1,500 |
Construction of foundation | £28 | £840 |
Construction of substructure | £29 | £870 |
Material costs for installation | £18 | £540 |
Labor costs for installation | £48 | £1,440 |
Total cost | £173 | £5,190 |
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What factors influence the composite decking cost?
Although the composite decking cost varies depending on the desired quality, the total cost of composite decking is made up of a number of factors, which we have summarized here:
- Quality and price of composite decking boards
- Size of the terrace area
- Is there an old terrace floor that needs to be removed beforehand?
- What is the condition of the surface?
- Is there any slope that needs to be leveled beforehand?
- Variant and material of the substructure
- What are the labor costs of the specialized company for the work?
What exactly is composite decking?
Composite decking, also known as WPC (Wood-Plastic-Composite), is a relatively new material that combines the look and feel of a wood surface with the low-maintenance properties of plastic. Combined with its relatively low to moderate cost (compared to hardwood), it has become a popular alternative for decking.
Despite its close resemblance to wood (many would not recognize or understand the difference), the look of composite decking appears somewhat more modern and less emotional, which makes it harmonize well with modern architectural styles and furniture.
There are also different designs and quality levels for composite decking. In particular, the proportion of wood and plastic varies. While some variants have a wood content of approx. 90% and thus also appear somewhat more natural, other composite decking boards only have a wood content of 50-60%. These have a somewhat cooler visual effect.
What are advantages and disadvantages of composite decking?
Of course, the comparatively low price of composite decking is an advantage. However, the material also offers advantages that wood, for example, cannot match. First of all, composite decking is quite undemanding in care and maintenance.
In addition, it is extremely resistant to weathering and not prone to problems due to moisture, mold or moss. For the feet composite decking is pleasant, because it is non-slip and does not splinter. From a purely visual and tactile standpoint, it resembles wood, so most people probably won’t notice that it’s not real wood. In addition, composite decking is available in a wide variety of colors and finishes.
In addition, in terms of costs, the low maintenance requirements of composite decking should not be underestimated. Apart from the time saved for maintenance, you will save quite a bit of money over the years or decades, since no or hardly any expensive maintenance products are required, as is the case with many types of wood, for example.
One disadvantage of composite decking is that it may not be as durable as some types of hardwood (e.g. bangkirai or oak). However, it can certainly compete with woods such as pine or spruce in terms of longevity. The disadvantage for foot comfort is that composite decking heats up faster. In addition, it can happen that the color matures a little and becomes lighter. In this case, it helps to use higher quality composite decking boards, where this effect is less pronounced.
How long does it take to install composite decking?
It is difficult to generalize the exact duration, as the surface size and the substrate also play a role. Is it already level or does the specialist company have to level the surface beforehand? Does an old floor have to be removed beforehand? In most cases, however, the composite decking installation is completed after 1-3 days.
How can I save on composite decking cost?
The easiest way to save money on composite decking cost is to run a free price comparison beforehand. This allows you to determine the price level in your region in just a few clicks. In addition, you can compare reviews of individual craftsmen and thus find the best price-performance ratio in your region.
