The Ultimate Decking Buyers’ Guide

When it comes to transforming your outdoor space into a stylish and functional oasis, decking plays a pivotal role. A well-designed deck not only extends your living area but also adds aesthetic charm and value to your property. If you’re a homeowner contemplating purchasing decking for the first time, you’re in the right place. If you’re a homeowner in the early stages of purchasing decking for the first time, welcome to the ultimate decking buyers’ guide. Here, we’ll cover everything from decking types and materials to accessories and choosing the right decking company to help you get your project completed successfully.

Decking Formats

The first decision you’ll need to make in your decking journey is the format you prefer – tiles or boards. Both options offer unique advantages, so let’s delve into the details:

Decking Tiles

These are a fantastic option for those seeking a quick and easy installation process. Decking tiles are pre-made squares that can be placed directly on the ground, eliminating the need for any special tools or skills. They’re also perfect for covering up an uneven or unsightly surface.

Decking Boards

If you’re aiming for a more traditional look and have a bit more time for installation on your hands, decking boards might be your preference. Boards can be laid over a subframe, creating a sturdy platform that’s elevated from the ground. Fitrite’s decking boards, for instance, come in various styles, colours and finishes, allowing you to tailor your outdoor space according to your vision.

Decking Materials

Now that you’ve chosen your format, the next crucial decision revolves around the type of material you want for your decking. The three primary options are timber, composite and uPVC. Each material brings with it its own set of benefits.

Timber Decking

A classic choice, timber decking exudes natural beauty and warmth. It’s often favoured for its aesthetic appeal and traditional charm, offering that classic decking look that many people find desirable. It does, however, tend to be more expensive and less sustainable than other options, and has a shorter lifespan even when well-maintained.

Composite Decking

For a long-lasting and innovative decking option, composite decking is definitely worth considering. Made from 955 recycled materials (a blend of plastic and wood dust from reused oak furniture), its advanced design ensures that there is no warping, splitting, splintering, distorting or rotting over time. Plus, the boards won’t fade in the sunlight, meaning they’ll maintain their new, attractive appearance for longer.

A highly strong and durable solid deck board with scratch and stain-resistant properties, composite decking will never need to be sanded, stained or oiled, so there’s no time or labour intensive and costly maintenance work to be performed down the line. On top of this, it’s incredibly easy to maintain – simply wipe clean with warm, soapy water.

uPVC Decking

For those looking to prioritise durability, uPVC decking is a fantastic option. uPVC is a 100% man made plastic product which is manufactured to have all of the beauty of natural wood whilst being made from non-wood materials – making it a more sustainable choice. Much like composite decking, it’s designed to require a minimum amount of maintenance, with anti-fade and anti-slip properties. It’s also highly resistant to moisture, fading and staining, making it an ideal choice for areas exposed to the elements.

Decking Accessories

Now that you’re chosen the basic features of your decking, why not elevate your project by incorporating accessories that enhance both its functionality and appearance. You might be surprised to learn that there are a wide range of decking accessories available that add those little finishing touches and bring everything together nicely.

Decking Caps

Decking posts are built right into the construction of a raised deck at the outer corners of the terraced area. If you want to add a nice finishing touch to these practical posts, why not opt for post caps? These small but impactful accessories offer a decorative touch to your deck’s posts while also protecting them from the elements. Fitrite’s selection of post caps ranges in style from traditional to contemporary, allowing you to customise your deck’s appearance to your preferences.

Stairs

When planning your decking project, it’s essential to consider not only the horizontal aspects, but also the vertical ones. If your deck is elevated or multi-level, stairs are a must-have addition. There are many durable step solutions available that work to seamlessly integrate with your chosen decking material and style.

Lighting

Extend the usability of your deck into the evening hours with carefully placed lighting. Decking lighting is best placed around the steps or the edges of your decking, ensuring that your or your guests won’t miss their footing in the dark. From soft ambient lighting to functional step lights, our lighting options ensure your deck remains inviting even after the sun sets.

Balustrades

If your decking has a drop, add some sort of balustrade or railing to prevent falls. Balustrades not only provide additional safety, but also add ornamental interest to your decking and help frame the space nicely – perfect if your garden has differently zoned areas. Much like lighting and steps, balustrades can be designed to match the design of your deck.

Choosing the Right Decking Company: Why Fitrite?

When it comes to embarking on a decking project, the choice of the right supplier can make all the difference between a smooth, successful transformation and a potentially frustrating experience. In light of this, Fitrite stands out as a trusted and reliable decking company for several compelling reasons.

Quality Assurance

One of the foremost factors to consider when choosing a decking company is the quality of their products. Fitrite takes this aspect seriously, offering decking solutions that are built to last. Our materials undergo rigorous quality control to ensure they can withstand the challenges of outdoor environments. With Fitrite, you can rest assured that your outdoor investment will stand the test of time, maintaining its structural integrity and aesthetic appeal for years to come.

Diverse Selection

Every homeowner has unique preferences and visions for their outdoor space. Fitrite understands this diversity and offers an extensive range of decking options to cater to various styles. Whether you’re drawn to the low-maintenance benefits of composite or the durability of uPVC, Fitrite has a solution that aligns perfectly with your aesthetic and functional needs.

Expertise

A reliable decking company goes beyond just providing products – they offer expertise and guidance throughout your project. Fortunately, our experienced team of professionals are well-versed in the nuances of decking construction. From assisting you in selecting the right material to advising on installation techniques, our experts are ready to share their knowledge and experience to ensure your project’s success.

Customer Satisfaction

The true measure of a decking company’s quality lies in the satisfaction of its customers. Fitrite takes immense pride in the positive feedback and testimonials from homeowners who have transformed their outdoor spaces using their products. These testimonials not only underscore the quality of our offerings but also speak to our commitment to ensuring that each customer’s expectations are not just met, but exceeded. Still not convinced? Check out some of our previous work here.

Installation Services

The installation phase is critical to the success of any decking project. This is why Fitrite not only provides high-quality materials but also offers professional installation services. Our specialist installation team ensures that your decking is installed correctly, adhering to the highest standards of workmanship. This seamless integration of products and services results in a hassle-free experience for you as a homeowner.

Count On Our Decking Installers for an Efficient Service

Your dream outdoor space is just a step away, and whether you’re envisioning a cosy extension of your homes’ interior or a chic entertaining zone, Fitrite has the perfect decking solution for you. Our range of uPVC, plastic and composite decking has been designed and manufactured to the highest possible standards to provide you with the best quality and service. Not only are our selections visually appealing, but are also able to maintain a good-as-new finish for years to come. Don’t wait any longer – explore their extensive range of decking options and accessories on our site today. Then,when you’re ready to get started on turning your decking dreams into a reality, give us a call on 0808 304 4993 to obtain a free quote.

---