Timber decking

Timber decking, real wood

For all the advances in composite, some people will always want real timber, and a well-built timber deck has a warmth and a natural character that is hard to match. We build hardwood and softwood decking, detailed and finished to weather well, for those who want genuine wood and do not mind looking after it.

Hardwood or softwood

The timber sets the character, the lifespan and the upkeep. A good hardwood is dense, durable and beautiful, and lasts longest. A properly treated softwood is a sound choice at a different budget. We will talk you through the species and what each asks of you, so you choose with your eyes open rather than regretting it in three years.

The substructure and the detail

As with any deck, the frame beneath decides the result. We build the substructure from properly treated, correctly spaced timber, ventilated so it does not trap damp and rot, and fix the boards cleanly. The detailing, the edges, the steps, the gaps for drainage and movement, is what separates a deck that ages well from one that cups and splits.

Honest about the upkeep

Timber needs looking after: cleaning, and oiling or staining on a cycle, and even then it weathers over the years. If that suits you, real wood is a fine choice. If you would rather almost no maintenance, we would point you to composite. Arrange a consultation and we will help you decide.

• 01

  Composite decking

  Low-maintenance composite decking, including Millboard, laid on a properly ventilated substructure.

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• 02

  Raised decking

  Raised and multi-level decking that turns a sloping or awkward garden into usable space.

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• 03

  Waterside decking, Cotswold Water Park

  Waterside and lakeside decking around the Cotswold Water Park lakes, built for the setting and the conditions.

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• 01

  Composite decking

  Low-maintenance composite decking, including Millboard, laid on a properly ventilated substructure.

  Read
• 02

  Raised decking

  Raised and multi-level decking that turns a sloping or awkward garden into usable space.

  Read

Source: Gardenscape. Figures as of 2026-06-03.

• Hardwood or softwood decking, which is better?

  Hardwood is denser, more durable and longer-lasting, and costs more; a properly treated softwood is a sound choice at a different budget. We talk you through the species and the upkeep each needs.

• How much maintenance does timber decking need?

  Regular cleaning and oiling or staining on a cycle, and it still weathers over the years. If you want real wood and do not mind the care it is a fine choice; if not, composite is the low-maintenance alternative.

• Why do timber decks cup, split or rot?

  Usually the timber choice, the detailing or a poorly ventilated frame. We build a treated, ventilated substructure and detail the boards for drainage and movement, which is what keeps a timber deck sound.

• Should I choose timber or composite?

  Timber for real wood and natural warmth if you will maintain it; composite for almost no upkeep and longer life, especially near water. We help you weigh it for your garden.