A beautiful, functional garden is something many homeowners dream of, but not every outdoor space is naturally suited for easy landscaping. Uneven ground, poor drainage, or awkward layouts can make it difficult to create a space that’s both practical and visually appealing.
This is where raised decking comes in. Unlike flat decks or patios, a raised decking area provides a level surface that can help overcome common garden challenges. Let’s explore how raised decking can solve key issues and transform your garden into a more usable and inviting space.
1. Dealing with Uneven or Sloped Ground
The Problem:
Sloped gardens can be difficult to use because furniture won’t sit evenly, and heavy rainfall can lead to soil erosion. Landscaping a sloped area can also be expensive and labour-intensive.
How Raised Decking Helps:
A raised decking area creates a stable, level surface without the need for extensive ground levelling. This means you can make use of previously awkward spaces without major excavation work. Raised decks also provide a natural transition between different levels in a multi-tiered garden. Check out Dino Decking for durable and long lasting composite decking options.
2. Solving Drainage and Waterlogging Issues
The Problem:
If your garden is prone to flooding or water pooling after rain, a flat patio or lawn can quickly become a muddy, unusable mess. Constant exposure to damp conditions can also lead to rot and moss growth.
How Raised Decking Helps:
By elevating your outdoor space, a raised deck keeps it above waterlogged ground, allowing rainwater to drain more effectively. The airflow beneath the deck also helps prevent moisture build-up, which extends the lifespan of your decking materials.
3. Making the Most of Small or Awkward Spaces
The Problem:
Narrow gardens, awkwardly shaped plots, or spaces with multiple levels can feel restrictive when trying to plan a seating or dining area.
How Raised Decking Helps:
A raised deck can create a well-defined outdoor space, even in tricky layouts. By designing a custom deck shape, you can make use of every inch of available space, turning neglected corners into stylish seating areas or outdoor lounges.
4. Enhancing Privacy and Views
The Problem:
In built-up areas, overlooked gardens can feel exposed, making it difficult to enjoy your outdoor space in peace. On the other hand, a flat deck may not provide the best vantage point for enjoying scenic views.
How Raised Decking Helps:
By elevating your outdoor seating area, a raised deck can provide better sightlines for scenic views while also improving privacy. Adding railings, screens, or pergolas to a raised deck can create a more enclosed, intimate feel.
5. Creating Additional Storage Space
The Problem:
Outdoor storage is always a challenge, especially in smaller gardens where sheds or storage boxes take up valuable space.
How Raised Decking Helps:
The space beneath a raised deck can be used for hidden storage. Whether it’s for garden tools, furniture cushions, bikes, or firewood, this under-deck space provides a practical solution without taking up additional room in your garden.
Will Composite Decking Creak and Echo When Walked On?
Do you want to know whether composite decking is going to age well? If you’ve had timber boards before, you might be aware that they can creak after a while. This can echo when they’re walked on, and it can make the decking seem loud and unstable. So, will the same happen if you switch out the material?
Know that after a while some composite decking can creak. However, this is going to be less than some other materials. Generally, it’ll depend on several factors whether you’ll get this creaking. Let’s take a look at what they are so you can avoid this from happening.
The Quality of the Boards
First, you have to know that the quality materials. If you choose cheap and thin composite, this is more likely to start creaking when it’s walked on. However, if you invest in quality, which can include thicker composite boards, this is going to be more durable. It’s likely to be quieter due to the strength.
The Substructure
You also have to think about what’s going on underneath the decking. In other words, is the frame strong and sturdy? You need to ensure that you have a solid base if you want to avoid movement and creaking. Therefore, when you’re planning your decking area, think carefully about the best substructure to have for the project.
The Installation
Something that you never want to rush is the installation of composite decking. Yes, this is a DIY project that you can take on by yourself. But, if you rush through the process and don’t do it correctly, you’re more likely to encounter creaking later on. Therefore, make sure you do everything from proper spacing to fastening elements securely to avoid noise.
Conclusion
Raised decking is more than just an aesthetic upgrade—it’s a practical solution for many common garden problems. Whether you’re dealing with a sloped landscape, poor drainage, or a lack of privacy, raised decking can provide a versatile and stylish fix.
If you’re considering adding a raised deck to your garden, think about the challenges you want to overcome and how a well-planned decking area could transform your space. Need inspiration? Speak to a professional or explore design ideas to find the perfect solution for your home.
