Decks are the perfect place for hosting, but they need a lot of upkeep to ensure they stay safe and looking their best.

Learning how to winterize your deck can save you a lot of work in spring. With a properly winterized deck, you'll be ready to entertain as soon as the sun returns.

I spoke to two decking experts about how to winterize a deck, and they gave me seven great tips – plus something you should never do.

1. Remove all your furniture

If you can, the first step is to remove all of the furniture, planters, and cooking appliances off your deck. It makes it much easier to work on the whole surface, and it also helps to protect the deck in wet conditions.

Decking expert Scott Paul explains that 'If able, remove your furniture from the deck during the winter. Furniture that can't be removed should be covered or elevated to prevent moisture from getting trapped within the material.'

Another decking expert, Stuart Dimery, agrees and adds that 'It is recommended to store your non-essential furniture and planter pots to help reduce trip hazards that might become obscured in heavy snow and extend the life of the furniture.'

2. Trim trees and bushes

With everything removed from the deck, neaten any trees and bushes around the deck. Scott Paul says 'Trim trees and bushes in the deck's immediate area to reduce the amount of debris that accumulates.' It's obvious once you know to do it, but this clever tip means fewer leaves and branches will be knocked onto your deck in winter storms.

3. Sweep up any debris

Clipping back trees and hedges will cover the deck with branches and stems, so it's the perfect time to sweep the whole surface. If you don't keep the surface clean, it can lead to stains.

Stuart Dimary explains that 'Removing built-up organic debris such as leaves is important to protect your deck from tannin spots and maintain the safety of your deck. Tannin spots are brown or tan discolorations that can occur when your deck interacts with moisture and the natural compounds in certain plants. Clearing away organic material will save you additional cleaning steps once spring arrives.'

Deck expert Scott Paul agrees and says that 'Sweeping your deck is essential to remove debris that has piled up throughout the fall, alongside preventing moisture buildup.'

4. Pressure wash - but only in the worst cases

In some cases, sweeping might not be enough. If your deck is stained with leaf slime, moss, or algae, you might need to break out a pressure washer. However, you need to be careful. While you can use a pressure washer on a deck, high power can easily chip the soft wood.

Stuart Dimery says 'Check the guidelines from the decking manufacturer about the use of pressure washers. If used improperly, these can damage surfaces, including brick and concrete.

Pressure washing a deck is typically not necessary before winterizing. However, if you have a significant amount of organic material build-up, it is beneficial to clean that off with water and brushes before winterizing the deck.

5. Repair the boards

With the deck clear of furniture and garden waste, it's time to do some upkeep on the boards. Scott Paul says that winterizing the deck is the perfect time to 'Identify and repair loose boards and remove nails that are sticking out.'

He adds that this is also a good time to check the drainage on your deck. Cleaning the deck usually means using a little water, and that's the perfect opportunity to see if water pools in puddles on your deck or drains off into the yard.

If you have puddles, you may need to reset the boards or replace them. Scott explains that this is crucial in winter. He says 'Make sure there is a way for excess moisture to drain and prevent ice build-up.' Otherwise, ice will form on the deck and it will become a slip hazard.

6. Seal the wood

The most important step is to seal your deck. Scott says that 'Sealing your deck before winter is recommended if you haven't done it within the last 3-4 months. A proper sealant will ensure that the wood is protected from moisture damage caused by the incoming winter weather.'

These sealants are easy to find at most hardware stores, and they're simple to apply. It can be a lot of work, but it's not complicated. All you need to do is sand the deck and then stain the deck by brushing the sealant over the surface of the wood, following the grain as you paint.

7. Clear the snow when it falls

After the deck is sealed, it's ready for winter - but keeping it protected throughout the cold months needs a little upkeep.

Stuart Dimary says 'Be sure to clear away snow before it starts piling up. Light snowfall should be removed with a stiff plastic or nylon-bristled push broom. For heavier snow accumulation, use a plastic shovel and work parallel with the boards to avoid catching the edge of the deck board.'

It's important to use plastic tools because they can shift snow without damaging the deck underneath. Stuart explains that 'These approaches help prevent accidental scratches or gouges commonly caused by metal shovels or other sharp tools.' These are easy to find in any hardware store - Walmart has plenty of inexpensive plastic snow shovels.

8. Avoid grit

But above all, don't grit your deck. It seems like an obvious solution to a snowy or icy deck, but grit can damage the wood.

Stuart Dimery says 'Note that rock salt is abrasive and can damage the deck walking surface as well as corrode deck fasteners and hardware. Adding abrasive material to composite or wood decking can damage the walking surface and is not recommended.'

Instead, Stuart recommends adding an ice melt. 'Depending on where you live, you may want to apply clear ice melt formulas before a snow event to help address slip hazards and prevent accidental stains on your deck. Remove excess solution with a push broom as needed.

Be sure to select an ice melt that is safe for use on concrete and flagstone, as well as safe for children and pets. Best practice is to test solutions ahead of time in a small inconspicuous area.' It's easy to buy ice melt - for example, this ice melt on Amazon is safe for pets and won't scratch your deck.

Winterizing your deck is only half the job. Even outside of rainy winter weather, it's important to protect your deck from slipperiness. This is easy - all you need is some anti-slip tape or non-slip outdoor rugs.

Decking is the perfect garden feature for relaxing. A good deck is a natural place to host dinners and drinks and take in views of the whole yard.

However, as we head into winter and it gets darker earlier, many of us are finding that lighting a deck can be tricky. Getting the right balance of lights is often hard; you want to create a relaxing atmosphere, but at the same time you need bright, practical lighting.

I spoke to decking experts about the most common deck lighting mistakes they've seen in their careers. They gave me seven common mistakes - and how to avoid them.

1. Only using one type of lights

The biggest mistake the experts see is to only rely on one type of light. Only using well lights or string lights is a little boring, and limits the utility of your lights. If you don't have some string lights for ambiance as well as practical lighting, the deck won't be as inviting or easy to use.

Decking and paving expert Cassi Hallam told me 'We've found that the best way to illuminate your deck is to combine several different types of light fixtures. For example, we usually recommend post cap lights, downlights, and recessed deck lights on flooring or stairs to enhance safety, illuminate walkways, and allow guests to comfortably hang out after dark without being disturbed by glaring overhead lights.'

Decking expert Joe Ciszek agrees. He told me 'There are a variety of deck lighting options you can choose from, but it all really depends on your style and needs. You can choose from post cap lights, under rail lighting, side stair lights, post dome lights, and flush deck lights, to name a few.'

2. Using dim lights

The experts also say that many people make their deck lighting slightly too dim. Many people aim to make gentle, cozy lighting, but this makes for a deck that's too dark to use.

Cassi Hallam says 'You want your deck lighting to create a soft, welcoming feel. Generally, it should be bright enough to see but not so bright that it overpowers the ambiance of spending an evening outdoors. LED deck lights between 100-300 lumens usually work well for pathways and railings, adding just enough light to enhance safety while keeping things cozy.'

Expert Joe Ciszek agrees and suggests staying away from solar lights in favor of LEDs. 'While solar lights are easier to install (no wires), but they do not give off the same level of brightness as wired LED lighting.'

LEDs have the added bonus of versatility. Joe adds that 'LED lighting can be controlled using your cell phone to regulate the brightness/warmth of the light or even the colors for different occasions and settings.' Cassi agrees. 'For maximum versatility, consider installing dimmable lighting systems. That way, you can adjust the brightness based on what you're doing. If you're hosting a party, your deck should be brighter than when you are enjoying a quiet evening with family outdoors.'

3. Adding mismatched, cold colors

When lighting a deck, use warm, amber-toned lights. These work best with the color of the wood on the deck. Whiter lights can look a little incongruous with this material, as though you're using office or hospital lighting at a campsite.

Cassi Hallam says 'We typically work with composite decking, which has a warm, natural wood look. Lights in warm white are perfect for deck lighting because they create a cozy, welcoming atmosphere and blend well with the natural look of a deck. Cooler-toned lights can look harsh unless installed with precision and care.'

Most importantly, once you decide on your color tone, stick to it. Joe Ciszek says 'Matching the color between lights is an important consideration, as some people don’t want to see cooler and warmer lights mixed in the same area.' So, while you should use a range of different kinds of light, try to keep them all the same sort of color.

4. Placing lights in obvious sight lines

The goal of good landscape lighting is to hide the light fixture. You don't want an obvious bulb, but for the light to diffuse over the space as though it doesn't have a source. This isn't always possible with deck lighting, because the primary goal is light for safety, so you will probably see the fixtures for step and handrail lighting.

However, if you can, direct your lights away from people's line of sight. Joe Ciszek says 'You also need to consider the placement of the lights to avoid having bright lighting within people’s line of sight.'

Few things can ruin a meal like a light shining into someone's eyes. When positioning your lights, try to avoid having any at head height, and check all the possible seating locations to ensure no lights shine into your guests' eyes.

5. Adding too many string lights

We have an undying love for string lights at H&G, but they're becoming a little played out. Cassi Hallam warned me to keep the string lights to a minimum for safety and style.

'With a cheerful look that's eye-catching in social media posts, string lights have become increasingly popular in recent years,' says Cassie. 'However, they can look passé if overdone and can create a safety issue if used as the sole light source for your deck.'

That said, don't throw your string lights out yet. Cassi says 'It's best to use string lights as accent lighting alongside more structured options like deck rail lights for maximum safety and practicality. Today's trends are leaning toward creating a layered, balanced lighting effect by combining string lights with more permanent options.'

6. Underspending on lights that don't last

Spend as much as you can on your deck lighting. Poor deck lighting can become an ongoing problem. Cassi told me that underspending on lights can mean higher costs in the long run, and an unending project of updating and fixing poor-quality lighting.

'While DIY lighting may be the cheapest option for homeowners, it's always true that you get what you pay for,' says Cassie. 'Professionally installed LED lighting packages maximize safety, ensure proper wiring, have a long-lasting polished look, and ultimately provide more bang for your buck.'

Joe Ciszek agrees but adds that you can save a little money with careful planning. 'Lighting should be part of your project plan upfront. Running wires during construction is much easier than trying to install them once construction is complete. If you want more elaborate lighting for your deck, you can consider phasing out your project so you don’t go over budget.'

7. Neglecting to light steps

However, above all, put safety first. Joe Ciszek emphasized that 'Lighting isn’t just for ambiance; it should improve visibility and safety, especially around stairs, railings, and pathways.'

This isn't just a health-and-safety warning, either; lots of municipalities have laws about exterior lighting. Joe explains: 'There are brightness requirements for stairs, so your installer should check local codes. At a minimum, it is required to illuminate stairs at night either with switch controls or with a dusk-to-dawn controller. Also, make sure your lighting is approved for outdoor use, weather-resistant, and suited to the environmental conditions of your location.'

However, bear in mind that a lot of this advice only applies to decking. For path lighting or uplighting a tree, you need much brighter, whiter lights, even if you're using warmer lights on the deck.

There are very few feelings better than sitting out on your deck during summer. It's the perfect spot to host guests, get some sun, and enjoy the outdoors while the good weather sticks around.

When you've finally created your perfect deck space, you'll want to keep it in the best possible condition for your summer activities. Preserving your deck is especially important during hotter months when it becomes exposed to direct sunlight. Sun damage on a deck can look like anything from fading to warping and even cracking, making it important to put some precautions in place to protect it.

Luckily, there are lots of things you can do to protect your deck from sun damage, many of which should be done before the sun even comes out.

3 ways to protect decking from sun damage

Taking measures to protect your deck from sun damage will see it last for much longer. Experts say it's key to get on top of protecting your deck from sun damage early.

'With decking, get precautions in place directly after installation. Remember, repairing damage can be costly,' says construction expert Matthew Consolo from Dreamscape Construction.

Here are a few things you can do to get ahead of the sun and protect your deck from sun damage this summer.

1. Use a UV-resistant sealant

A UV-resistant sealant will work well for any wooden decks, providing a protective layer from the sun.

'Untreated wood with no sealant is the most susceptible to sun damage. This is because there is nothing to keep the UV radiation from hitting the wood directly,' notes Brandon Walker, construction manager at ASAP Restoration.

Opting for UV-resistant sealant to coat your decking will preserve the wood and stop the sun from fading its color and weakening its structure.

'These coatings are made from various protective substances ranging from natural shellac to synthetic polymer blends,' explains Brandon. 'This can dramatically extend the life of the deck.'

You can find UV-resistant sealants online, like this wood sealer from Amazon which will also protect your deck from winter damage by preventing excessive moisture from soaking into the wood and rotting it.

2. Install a pergola to create shade

The easiest way to prevent your deck from being exposed to too much sunlight is by creating shade. One of the most stylish ways to do this is by having a pergola over your deck area.

Pergola shade is a great way to create an outdoor living room with a shelter that offers a cool space to escape to in the heat of the summer.

'If you're building a deck in an area with no shade, it can dramatically help to extend the lifespan of the deck by simply adding some,' says Brandon. 'This may take a few years to fully realize, but it will provide your decking materials with a much-needed respite from the effects of extreme sun exposure and in the process greatly extend the lifespan of the deck.'

As well as this pergola with sun shade from Amazon, you can create garden shade on your deck with patio umbrellas - like this patio umbrella from Walmart.

3. Add outdoor rugs to your deck

In a similar way to casting shade over your deck, placing an outdoor rug on your deck prevents the sun from hitting it directly.

'A decorative way homeowners can add protection to their deck surfaces is with outdoor rugs. Not only does this reduce sun exposure, but it also protects against foot traffic, spills and pets,' says Leslie Adkins of Trex Decking.

'However, you don’t want to set it and forget it. Depending on the intensity of sunlight, you might want to occasionally swap or reposition rugs to avoid 'tan lines',' Leslie adds.

Outdoor rugs tend to be made from weather-resistant materials, but it can still be wise to keep on top of regularly cleaning your outdoor rug so that it lasts longer.

There are plenty of outdoor rugs on the market, too, meaning you can find the right one for your aesthetic - search among these beautiful outdoor rugs from Wayfair.

FAQs

Will my composite deck become damaged by sun?

Decking can become damaged by the sun in the form of fading, warping and cracking. While wooden decks are more susceptible to sun damage, PVC and composite decks can also be affected by direct sun exposure and high temperatures. Nevertheless, the harder structure of these decking materials makes them much more weather-resistant. You can even opt for UV-resistant decks.

'The protective outer shell resists fading, staining, and scratching and upkeep is hassle-free with no sanding, staining, or sealing required,' says Leslie Adkins, deck expert and Group Vice President of Marketing and ESG Development at Trex. 'Just an occasional cleaning with soap and water is all that’s needed to keep a composite deck looking like new for decades,' she adds.

Doing these things to protect your deck from sun damage will ensure it stays looking its best for years to come. Sun damage can happen gradually, so taking the time to put precautions in place now will pay off in the long term.

You should also regularly clean your deck to prevent debris from trapping moisture on it and causing damage such as rotting.

Your outdoor decking faces the elements year-round, so it's no surprise that unpleasant odors can develop over time. Cleaning a deck to lift these odors is one of the key outdoor cleaning tasks that need to be completed before summer arrives so you can enjoy relaxing and hosting in this space all season long.

Bad odors on a deck can stem from various sources, including mold, mildew, trapped moisture, spills, and accumulated debris. Not only do these odors make your outdoor decking less inviting, but they can also indicate deeper issues that require attention.

So, if you're checking decking for winter damage and notice an unusual odor, it's essential to address this promptly. Our experts have recommended the following cleaning tips, to help you to maintain a pleasant outdoor space and preserve your decking by preventing any underlying issues from escalating.

How to remove bad odors from your outdoor decking

'Regular maintenance is crucial to keeping your deck odor-free. This includes sweeping debris, washing the deck with a gentle soap solution, and occasional deep cleaning using specially formulated deck cleaners,' says Steve Sylva, owner of the landscaping company Steve’s Services. 'This routine not only keeps the deck visually appealing but also helps to prevent odor buildup by removing the surface dirt and debris that can harbor fungus and mildew, leading to odors before they can penetrate deeper into the wood grains.'

However, for odors that aren't lifted with this, often those stemming from organic decay or mold, a more robust solution is often necessary. 

1. Identify the source of the odor

The first step is to find what’s causing the smell because the treatment will vary based on the cause. Gavin Warwick, founder of Boise Landscaping Company explains how to do this:

Start by employing your sense of smell. Walk around the deck and try to locate where the odor is strongest.

Next, inspect the deck for any visible signs of mold, mildew, or algae, especially in areas that are shaded and retain moisture. Also, check for stains that could indicate spilled food, drinks, or pet accidents. These areas may appear darker or discolored. 

If you’re still having a hard time locating the source, check these common culprits:

• Under potted plants: Moisture can accumulate here, making it a hot spot for mold growth.
• Between boards: Debris and moisture can get trapped between deck boards, fostering mold and mildew.
• Near cooking areas: If you’ve got a barbecue or outdoor kitchen on your deck, food spills and grease can also accumulate and cause odors.
• Furniture and rugs: Moisture and debris can get trapped under outdoor rugs and furniture, especially if not moved or cleaned regularly.

If you still can’t find the source of the odor, Gavin Warwick suggests it could be moisture. Use a wood moisture meter to test for elevated moisture levels in the wood that may indicate mold growth. 

If this is causing the odor, you will need to take more drastic measures than just cleaning it to remove mold from a wood deck, such as replacing soiled wooden boards.

2. Clear all debris

Start by giving your deck a thorough cleaning. Use a mild detergent or specialized deck cleaner, such as this TIMBERTECH Composite DeckCleaner, from Amazon, and scrub the surface with a stiff brush to remove dirt, grime, and organic buildup. Pay special attention to crevices and corners where odors may linger.

3. Sprinkle baking soda overnight

To neutralize odors baking soda can be effective for absorbing odors and drying out any lingering moisture.

Spread a generous amount of baking soda evenly over the deck's surface, focusing particularly on areas with the strongest odors. Allow the baking soda to sit overnight to give it ample time to penetrate the pores of the wood. This will absorb any lingering odors and help dry out the moisture that may be contributing to the problem. The next day, rinse off the baking soda. 

4. Clean with vinegar

For more stubborn odors, applying a mixture of white vinegar and water can help. This natural solution kills off mold spores and neutralizes odors without damaging the wood.

You can scrub the baking soda with a broom or brush and clean with vinegar and water. With its natural disinfectant properties, vinegar can further help to eliminate odors while cleaning the deck's surface of any residue. Then, rinse the deck using a power washer or a hose.

The first layer of baking soda helps trap the odorous particles within its structure. Then, the vinegar adds another level of deodorizing by neutralizing the odor-causing compounds trapped by the baking soda. Whether the odor-causing compounds were acidic or alkaline, the neutralization reaction should eliminate them regardless.

'Both of these are safe to use on your wooden decking, and they're also safe for your landscaping and plants that may be growing in the area (as long as you're not using too much or directly exposing them),' says Ryan Farley, CEO of LawnStarter.

5. Use a homemade enzymatic cleaner

'For immediate odor issues, especially those arising from organic decay such as leaves or food spills, a homemade enzymatic cleaner can be particularly effective,' says Sal Musto, the owner of Steve’s Services landscape company. 

'This cleaner is made by mixing sugar, lemon, and water, and letting it ferment for a few weeks. The natural enzymes help break down organic matter, effectively removing the source of the odor.'

These are especially useful when odors are due to pet urine or decomposing natural debris.

6. Try oxygen bleach for the most stubborn odors

An effective cleaning mixture that works well, particularly against organic decay, is a solution of oxygen bleach diluted with water. This solution is safe for both the environment and the deck materials, lifting stains and odors without harsh chemicals.

'For the toughest cases, such as deep-set mold or lingering odors, we use a product like OxiClean Odor Blasters Versatile Odor and Stain Remover Powder, from Amazon,' says the owner of McLeod Landscaping Inc. 'This non-toxic oxygen bleach is safe for colored surfaces but powerful against stains and odors. Not only does it address the odor but also brightens the decking, making it look refreshed.'

• Apply the oxygen bleach to your deck according to the manufacturer's instructions – this will typically be one cup of oxygen bleach per gallon of water. Stir this until it is completely dissolved. 
• Pour this onto the affected area of your deck and scrub it evenly over the surface using a scrub brush or a mop.
• Let the solution sit for 10-15 minutes to penetrate the wood and break down organic matter causing odors. 
• Then, use a scrub brush to agitate the deck's surface and lift dirt, grime, and other odor-causing substances. 
• Rinse the deck with clean water using a hose or pressure washer, and allow it to dry fully before using it again.

7. Sealing and drainage

Once the deck is clean and dry, apply a sealer. This will help prevent future odors by blocking moisture absorption, as well as protecting the wood from the elements. You should do this at least once every two to three years.

'Additionally, it’s essential to ensure that your decking has proper drainage and air circulation,' says Steve Schumacher, owner-operator of Boston Landscape Co. 'Poor drainage can lead to water accumulation, exacerbating mold growth and odor issues. Ensuring that your deck is slightly elevated or has adequate spacing for airflow can prevent moisture retention.'

FAQs

How often should you wash your decking?

It’s important to clean your deck regularly and clear up any spills immediately to prevent the absorption of liquids and residues that can lead to bad odors. A well-maintained deck seldom has issues with persistent bad smells.

We also recommend a bi-annual deep cleaning regimen using a solution of water and oxygen bleach, which does an excellent job of breaking down odor-causing residues without damaging the deck material.

If bad odors persist, it’s best to call in a professional. Sometimes, the problem lies deeper than the surface, such as deep-set mold and mildew or rot and decay. A professional can help diagnose and solve these more persistent issues.

As we say goodbye to the cold days of winter, many of us are now sprucing up our outside spaces ready for spring and summer. One key area to inspect in your yard after the cold winter weather is your outside decking. Winter deck damage can be cosmetic, such as mold growth in damp or shady areas, or it can be more serious, such as split boards from repeated frosts. 

The first, and most important step when learning how to preserve decking is assessing it for any damage. This will not just prevent the need for further repairs, but it will also ensure that the deck is safe and that it still looks good, plus, it will extend your deck's lifespan.

Our experts have shared their top tips for assessing decking for winter damage, so you can take action to ensure your backyard deck stays in good-as-new condition for as long as possible.

How to check your decking for winter damage

Some damage will be obvious, such as a board that has snapped or a collapsed railing, however, other signs are more subtle. To avoid overlooking issues that can become increasingly destructive, a thorough and full assessment of your deck is crucial to ensure no damage goes unnoticed and eventually worsens, requiring costly repairs. 

1. Scan for surface damage

During winter, moisture can seep into cracks and gaps in wood, causing the material to expand and contract as it freezes and thaws, which can lead to warping, cracking, and splintering of the deck's surface. Thus, the initial step in assessing your deck post-winter is to check for any surface damage caused by this process.

Remove everything from your decking and clean the deck so you can properly inspect it. Sweep off any leaves, branches, or dirt, and hose down anything that may have accumulated on the deck during winter.

'Then, you can take an overview of the entire deck. Andriy Boyko, founder of A.O. Handy Inc., advises: 'Consider its overall condition, looking for any obvious signs of surface damage. Is it warped? Cracked? Splintering? If it’s painted, how is the paint surface?'

Doing this can indicate any more significant issues and inform the necessary steps for maintenance and repair. 

2. Inspect for insects

'Most insects won’t cause a lot of damage to your property over the cold months, but they may look for places to overwinter, such as spots like your deck,' explains Brett Bennett, director of operations at PURCOR Pest.

'If they’ve found a home in your deck over the winter, they may start to cause damage. So, it can be wise to inspect your deck for signs of insects, or call a pest control specialist to do this.'

It's especially important to check for the presence of burrowing insects as they can cause irreversible structural damage. For example, you will need to get rid of carpenter ants before they dig into the wood entirely. 

To check your deck for insect activity, inspect posts, beams, joists, and deck boards for signs of damage like holes, tunnels, or sawdust-like residue which may indicate the presence of burrowing insects like carpenter ants or termites. 

With a screwdriver or awl, you can gently probe the wood to check for soft spots that may signal insect damage or other decay.

3. Test for the presence of mold

It's essential to check your deck for mold or mildew over winter, which can be brought on by moisture accumulation from rain, snow, humidity, organic matter, or even poor drainage, in addition to the darker conditions and reduced air circulation.

'Carefully inspect the surface of and between the decking boards and support structures for rot, decay, discoloration, fuzzy patches, or black spots' advises Andriy Boyko. 'Look closely near the edges, at the base of the deck, under furniture, near planters, and in areas prone to standing water.'

Again, you can use a flathead screwdriver to probe the wood to find damp portions that have not dried after the rest of the deck has. If the screwdriver easily enters the wood, it’s a sign that the wood is rotten.

Another way to test for elevated moisture levels in the wood that may indicate mold growth conditions is using a wood moisture meter, like this from Amazon.

If you believe mold may be growing on your deck, be sure to wear protective gear such as gloves, a mask, and safety goggles when inspecting your deck to avoid potential exposure to mold spores. This glove and googles kit from Walmart should do the trick. 

4. Check its structural Integrity

Repeated exposure to melting ice and snow can strip away the wood's protective sealant, causing the wood to deteriorate. This can even cause the deck boards to bend and sag, leading to structural damage. 

To check for structural damage: 

1. 'Carefully examine the perimeter support posts and all beams and joists on the deck itself, looking for any evidence of sagging, settling, splitting, or swaying, especially at the base where they meet the ground,' advises Andriy Boyko. 'You can use the screwdriver test to prove for spots that give easily, indicating decay.'

2. Next, focus on locations where the deck connects to a building or another structure. Look for loose or corroded fasteners and evidence of any gaps or separation of the deck from the building. 

3. Check all fasteners (screws, nails, bolts) and other connections for rust or corrosion, and the surrounding area to ensure there are no signs of rot or water damage around the attachment points. 

4. 'Examine the railing system to ensure that there are no loose or damaged components,' continues Andriy Boyko. 'Check the balusters (the vertical rods that support the banister of a staircase) for signs of damage, breakage, or rot; make sure the spacing is correct and the balusters are securely fastened. Try pushing on the railings to make sure that they are secure and attached to the deck.'

5. Assess waterproofing and sealing

Although it may not seem the most important aspect to check on after enduring the inevitable wear of winter, checking the waterproofing and sealing of your deck is essential for its long-term integrity, and shouldn't be skipped as part of this annual inspection.

Aside from visual indicators of damage, such as cracks, peeling sealant, mold growth, or discoloration, you can test the effectiveness of the deck's waterproofing by checking for water absorption. To do this, sprinkle water onto various areas of the deck's surface. If the water forms droplets that sit on the deck's surface, this will indicate the waterproofing is intact, however, if it quickly absorbs into the wood, the sealant may need to be reapplied.

You should also consider resealing your deck in drier months regardless. Exposure to UV radiation from the sun can cause the wood to fade, discolor, and weaken over time, making it more susceptible to surface damage like cracking and splitting if not properly protected.

If you are unsure of the condition of your decking but have reason to suspect it is damaged, hiring a professional to inspect your deck can ensure you protect it long-term and catch any problems before they progress. A professional can often spot issues you can’t and provide personalized recommendations to repair or maintain them, such as how to remove green mold from a wood deck.

With summer nearing, it’s time to pay attention to the outside of your home. Carrying out cleaning and maintenance now ensures the exterior of the house and areas such as decks and patios are in great condition – and the latter two are ready to be enjoyed as soon as the weather permits.

The pre-summer to-do list isn’t long, fortunately, and outdoor cleaning tips can make all the essential jobs easier. After all, no one wants to spend longer on chores than they have to. Here, we‘ve rounded up the tasks that are important to deal with before summer starts along with the experts’ advice on how to complete them more easily.

Pre-summer outdoor cleaning tasks made easy

Give your home a little tender loving care now by making time for these essential outdoor cleaning tasks and you’ll be set for the summer. Cleaning and maintenance prevents the wear and tear to which the outside of any home is subject becoming a larger problem with all the cost implications that brings.

These are the tasks home pros suggest you tackle now and the ways their long experience has shown them make these chores easier.

1. Clean gutters

It is one of the most hated summer cleaning jobs, but cleaning gutters is a task you should do before summer starts. Accumulated debris in the gutter means they won’t do their job and water won’t drain. Although less rain is to be expected as summer starts, it’s still important.

However, this often overlooked outdoor cleaning job isn’t a nice one. ‘Cleaning the gutters is an awful experience,’ points out Deborah Lamberton at ASAP Restoration. ‘It’s dirty, it smells like rotten leaves, it’s hard work, and it’s dangerous getting onto the roof to do it.’

But there is a way to avoid cleaning gutters from the roof and to get the job done more easily. Deborah explains: ‘Technology has come to the rescue in the form of extendable hose attachments for pressure washing out gutters from the ground like this gutter cleaning tool from Amazon.’

2. Remove mold and algae from decking

Spruce up your deck so it’s ready – and safe – for use. Mold and algae can cause slips and falls as well as turning it into an area in which it’s far from appealing to sit if you don’t remove green mold and mildew, so clean it before summer begins.

The way to make this job easier? ‘The key to removing mold and algae from decks is using a quality deck cleaner,’ explains Scott Paul, owner at DeckStainHelp.com. ‘Deck cleaners are designed to loosen debris like dirt and gray wood fibers and also rid the deck of contaminants like mold and algae. If the proper cleaner is not used then the mold and algae will continue to grow and will reappear in no time.

‘This is especially important if you are staining the deck,’ he notes. ‘Improper cleaning can mean mold and algae get trapped below the new deck stain and begin to eat away at the wood, causing rot and decay.’

A pressure washer will remove debris from the deck, but you can clean a deck without a pressure washer using a stiff brush instead.

3. Refresh exterior paintwork

The exterior of your house might be showing a little wear and tear with paint on exterior walls and trim in bad shape, but if you want to make your front yard look nice, enhance curb appeal and keep your home sound, it’s an issue that needs addressing.

Cleaning before painting the exterior of a house is essential (otherwise, the paint won’t adhere properly) but that can feel like an onerous task. There is a way to avoid the labor, though. ‘Use a pressure washer (you can rent these) to do a targeted clean along any areas where the paint is flaking, bubbling, or looking dull,’ recommends realtor and curb appeal expert Eric Bramlett, who also has his own real estate portfolio to take care of.

‘The high-pressure stream will slough off that unsightly failing paint and provide you with a clean, prepped surface for touch-ups. Look for exterior paint designed for excellent adhesion, get yourself a good angled brush, and you can have those problem areas looking fresh again in spot treatments versus an all-over re-paint. While you’re at it, take care of any caulk failures around trim, too.’

And, if you're wondering how often you should clean the exterior of your house, aim for once or twice a year.

4. Maintain awnings

If you want your home to be comfortably shaded when the temperature rises, take the opportunity to clean and maintain awnings.

‘Checking the awning’s frame and fabric helps spot any damages that may make it unusable during summer,’ says Mike Falahee, president of awnings specialists Marygrove. ‘As you are doing this, you should check for any tears or rips, and if you find any, you need to get it fixed as soon as possible.’

But awnings also need cleaning and there is a straightforward and effective way to do so. ‘When cleaning your awning, you should avoid using harsh chemicals,’ Mike explains. ‘I find acetone the perfect chemical to clean awnings to give them a fresh look.’

5. Fix patios and decks

Both patios and decks can show damage and addressing any problems before summer will make the job a simpler one.

‘Do a speed lap around the area, looking specifically for major splinters, deep cracks, or boards coming loose,’ advises Eric Bramlett. ‘Mark those key spots with some bright tape or chalk so you can focus your efforts there.

‘For tiny hairline cracks, I’m a fan of using a concrete crack sealer or wood putty that comes in a easy caulk-style tube – way faster than meticulously mixing up batches.’

As for dealing with a grimy patio, overusing a pressure washer is one of the patio cleaning mistakes to avoid. Instead, you can easily clean patio pavers without a pressure washer using soapy water and a stiff brush.

FAQ

How do I keep my outdoor living area clean?

Sweeping hard surfaces with a stiff broom will keep outdoor surfaces clean, and they can be hosed down if necessary. Be sure to keep up with the tasks that keep pests away, too. ‘Clearing old piles of leaves, checking your plants for insect problems, and clearing any debris lying around the base of your house are important tasks,’ says Brett Bennett, director of operations, PURCOR Pest. ‘This can help you to get rid of any potential homes for pests.’

It’s worth checking on the condition of sofas, tables and chairs as you might need to clean outdoor furniture before using it again this summer. Add instant color to the yard by painting garden furniture, too. And it’s the right time to clean an outdoor rug that’s used for a patio or deck as well.

If you love to spend time outdoors, you're just a few deck ideas away from lounging in the afternoon sun with a good book, or hosting friends and family for an alfresco dinner party.

Although decking has been a staple of the boat building business for centuries, this design approach didn't enter the interiors world until the 60s. Many Americans hankered after an indoor-outdoor style extension to their home on which to host their BBQs, so built elevated patios directly off their living spaces out of decking – chosen because it's lightweight and easy on the eye.

Over the years, decking's usage has expanded, and it has become the go-to material for a contemporary patio or roof terrace. Materials have also come into their own. While early decks were made out of first-generation hardwoods, now it's hard-wearing composites and eco products made of recycled materials that are all the rage for backyards. We are also experimenting with stains and widths to give the wood a very contemporary feel.

On-trend deck ideas for a fabulous outdoor space

From decking layouts and patterns we love, to deck railing ideas and inspiration for small backyards, we've rounded up the best deck inspiration we could find to help you plan your dream space. 

1. Build a custom deck

If you're looking for small deck ideas, a custom design is a great choice, because it will be built to maximize your space.

'A custom deck is a uniquely designed structure that meets your specific needs and preferences,' says Sam Toole CMO of TimberTech, a composite decking company. 'Working with a contractor for a custom-built deck ensures your deck is built to the right specifications for lasting performance.'

2. Light up decking at night

To ensure your decked space is useable after dark as well as during the day, it's sensible to plan your deck lighting ideas from the outset. 

When planned correctly, it will allow you to use the space throughout the year. Plus, you can use it to highlight some of your favorite features in your yard, such as a pool or hot tub area, as the owners of this property have done so well. 

'Simple LED lights inset in the deck or in steps will create a subtle glow and help to light the way after dark,' says Beth Murton, Head of Gardens for Homes & Gardens. 'Proper deck lighting is especially important on a sloped site or where there are lots of steps to ensure that it is safe for everyone to use at night. 

'Although it's possible to retro fit lighting, for the sleekest look it is always best to fit it as the same time as your deck,' adds Beth. 'Your decking supplier will be able to advise on the most suitable products to include in your space, especially if you are fitting them near a water feature, pool or hot tub area.'

3. Surround a pool with decking

Decking is the perfect partner for a tropical-style space complete with pool, outdoor shower and lush, leafy foliage, as showcased in this stunning garden by Kate Gould at the Chelsea Flower Show in 2022. 

Not only does pool decking feel soft and warm underfoot, but the natural colors and textures enhance the spa-like vibe of the space. A composite material that is resistant to rot and mold would be the smartest choice for a space like this where it is likely get wet on a regular basis. 

Kate specifically chose planting that has a 'a strong evergreen backbone and a tropical theme' to showcase how effective green planting can be at ensuring there is plenty of color and texture in an outdoor space all year round. 

4. Create pockets of planting

Finding ways to encourage more pollinators and wildlife to our backyards is key as their habitats are being gradually eroded. If you're going to add more hardscaping to your backyard, consider how you can still incorporate areas of planting in your landscaping ideas. 

We love how this decked space includes mini pockets of planting in the deck, softening the look of the timber and creating a more natural look that works particularly well with the cottage garden-style space. 

Good options to plant include mini ferns, creeping thyme for its nice smell, or mat-forming varieties of stonecrop.

5. Up the style stakes with a herringbone decking pattern

Herringbone floors are a popular indoor feature, especially in traditional, elegant spaces. So why not bring them outside to create a similar feeling?

'A herringbone pattern is rich in visual interest and immediately elevates the style of your outdoor living space,' says Sam Toole. 'This pattern can also serve as an intricate focal point when used as a framed inlay.'

6. Pair a deck with a patio

In a large outdoor space, vary your landscaping to create a more inviting space. At the Santa Barbara, California home above, designer Jessica Risko Smith added a deck adjacent to the pool patio to break up the vast space. 

The wood decking adds a sense of warmth to the harder landscaping elements of the patio, and helps delineate the living area from the nearby pool deck. 

7. Opt for modular furniture to maximize deck space

'For maximum versatility and a totally curated space, opt for modular outdoor furniture and décor,' says Sam Toole. 'Modular pieces can be easily rearranged and sometimes nest inside each other for optimal flexibility and functionality. So, whether you’re hosting a small intimate gathering or a big family get-together, your space can accommodate your needs.' 

8. Soften a deck with rugs and cushions

Although decking is a practical material for an outdoor space, if you're going to be using it as your main outdoor living area, chances are you'll want to soften the overall look of all that wood. 

Adding outdoor rugs and oversized floor cushions can introduce pattern and texture to the space, helping to break up the large expanse of timber. What's more, if you have a large decked space, rugs can help to zone different sections of it, separating lounging areas from dining spaces, for example. 

Cleaning an outdoor rug is super easy too – all you need is some warm water and a good scrubbing brush to remove any stubborn stains. 

9. Use decking to zone a small space

It’s not a surprise that decking is now used so widely. It can be widened into platforms or narrowed into paths to link different areas, binding together a garden’s design. 

In small backyards, decking may even be used to replace lawn and paving, flowing in an unbroken series of paths, terraces and seating. With forward planning, lighting cables and water pipes can be concealed beneath, opening up options for outdoor lighting ideas that rival interior rooms. 

10. Take your decking to a new level

Decking is a godsend when designing a sloping garden or split-level site. It can easily be built up into a platform or stepped downwards to cope with the sloping nature of a site. 

In narrow plots where the planking zigzags through the garden, it draws the eye around the area, making a backyard look bigger. 

11. Incorporate raised beds

Raised garden beds are a wonderful way to introduce more planting to your outdoor space, and they can work brilliantly as part of your decking scheme when planned from the outset. 

Here, long white raised beds complement the extra long decking planks, cleverly extending the feeling of space. Planted up with ornamental grasses and evergreen shrubs, they will provide year-round interest when viewed from both the deck and the house. The simple green and white color sheme works beautifully with the natural look of the timber decking too. 

12. Color coordinate decking and fences

An outdoor room that is an immediate extension of the home suits a scheme in which all furnishings – decking, fencing, seating, cushions, containers and plants – are color coordinated. 

In such a scheme, there is scope for imaginative designs using wood stains, available in a wide selection of colors. And the advantage of timber instead of paving or stone is that its color can be easily changed. Experiment with different shades on some timber offcuts first to make sure you are happy with how it will look once the decking stain has dried completely.

13. Use plants to soften the edges of a deck

The best deck planting ideas offer a chance to add color and style to your outdoor space. When drawing up your plans, think about where your chosen plants will fit best – whether in pots, flower beds adjacent to the deck, or in beds countersunk within it – before you lay the decking. Allow plants to grow over the edge of the deck to soften the hard lines and create a more natural look. 

Plus, if you position your plants correctly and choose the right plants, they can offer privacy or shade. Certain plants, like the citronella plant, can even help keep bugs and pests away from your outdoor dining area. 

14. Go for a natural finish

At its best, a timber deck is a handsome, hard-wearing surface that complements most garden settings. It’s a natural material that provides a sympathetic background to plants, blending beautifully with water, stone and trees. Timber lends itself to different styles of architecture and design. A deck can be designed in a smart, contemporary look, as easily as in a more traditional style.

An informal look is created when decking is left natural and allowed to weather with time. It turns a silvery-grey, creating a deck color idea that blends beautifully with plants and the natural landscape. A good compromise is to treat the decking with a wood oil that simply enhances the natural beauty of the wood – products made for treating timber boats are ideal.

But decks don’t only look good: other advantages include being relatively lightweight in comparison to stone, quick and easy to install and forgiving. Timber can be cut to size to fit perfectly round awkward corners, or over manhole covers and is easily extended at a later date.

15. Create a simple path with decking boards

Decking boards are a smart option for a garden path, creating an inexpensive boardwalk effect in a gravel garden. 

You could also consider laying your decking planks at different angles or creating curves, but remember, construction is more time-consuming on a larger site. Sketch out your plans, take accurate measurements and mark the ground with posts and strings for the best results. 

16. Introduce interest with a raised platform

Use decking to lead the eye to a secluded seating spot at the end of your backyard. Decking is especially useful on plots where there is a difference in height, because it can be simply laid to fit the space with steps ascending or descending to other levels. 

When choosing a site for a deck, avoid poorly ventilated areas with little sunlight – this can cause rot and algae. Raised decks should be built to encourage a free flow of air through gaps between the decking fascia, with no spaces big enough to let in rats or mice. 

'Decking is an excellent choice if you're landscaping your backyard from scratch or you simply want to give it a new look,' says Beth Murton. 

'If you're relatively experienced at DIY, it's certainly possible to build a deck yourself, but it's labor intensive and is likely to take you far longer than you think. It's also essential to get the base of your deck right to ensure it is strong and can support the weight of the structure (and the people using it). Making any decking design mistake can be a costly business, so in the long run you may find it cheaper to hire a professional to fit it for you.'

Writing a spring gardening checklist is one of the most exciting things to do in a season already laden with anticipation and delight.

After months of uninviting cold and wet, the start of the gardening year holds so much promise. There is so much to do, so many spring garden ideas to plan, that it helps to draw up a clear to-do list, so you don’t get bogged down by the weight of tasks. After decades of gardening and writing about gardening, I still feel a flutter of excitement when spring comes around. Even when the weather is bad I can be found in the shed or greenhouse, sowing seeds, potting on seedlings and cuttings, itching to get out into the garden and start ticking off the tasks on my spring gardening checklist.

From cleaning and sowing to dividing and keeping deer away from your precious plants, we are here with advice to help you create the yard of your dreams this year.

10 top tips for your spring gardening checklist

Here are our top 10 tips to keep your garden productive and healthy as we head deeper into spring and look forward to the summer ahead.

1. Nurture your soil

You won’t get far with a productive backyard if your soil health isn't at its best.

Last year’s growing will have used up a lot of its nutrients, and harsh winter weather will have further depleted its goodness, so it is important to make time in the spring to get your soil up to scratch.

Whatever soil type you have, the best way to improve it is to incorporate generous amounts of well-rotted compost or manure. If you make your own compost, so much the better, but if not, then this is the perfect time to build a compost heap or wormery in your garden.

For quicker composting, you could also try hot composting, which can give you fabulous rich soil improver in around a month, instead of the 6-12 months that  traditional compost making usually takes.

The benefits of homemade compost are vast. It is made from your kitchen fruit and veg peelings as well as cuttings, prunings and grass clippings, meaning less waste to dispose of, and it will save you money.

Commercially made compost is going up in price - and so is the fuel used to get you to where you buy it, or to transport it to your door. By making your own, you reduce your carbon output and save money for buying seeds and plants - a win-win situation.

You can also use a general plant feed to improve your soil, though because of the potential cost this is best used on small areas. Chicken manure pellets are a great all-rounder and are widely available in garden shops and online, such as this 25lb bag of organic pellets from Espoma on Amazon.

In colder US hardiness zones you may need to warm the soil before sowing and planting, and this is easily done by pegging insulating horticultural fleece over the surface.

Alternatively, use home-made insulation such as flattened cardboard boxes and old compost bags. Make sure they are securely anchored down - and remember this is also an excellent way of blocking light from the soil so weeds don’t grow.

2. Organise the shed and greenhouse

We are coming up to the busiest time of the year so you need everything to be clean and ready for all the sowing, repotting and growing you're going to be doing.

In the shed, clean and sharpen your tools, making sure you remove rust and dirt. If any need replacing, do so now before the mad spring rush. It's tempting to overbuy when it comes to garden equipment, but there are only a few essential tools needed - the rest are simply there to make you spend more.

Ensure you have adequate, appropriate and safe storage in your shed for fertilizers, chemicals and potting soil. Wash and pots and trays you are planning to reuse. I also wash my gardening gloves to keep them soft and more pleasant to wear.

Then turn your attention to the greenhouse which you may have winterized back in the fall.

Clean the glass to let in maximum amounts of light and wash down shelving and tables using hot water and household disinfectant. Open doors and windows on milder days so everything dries out.

If your greenhouse contains beds for growing, replenish the soil with manure or well-rotted compost or chicken manure pellets.

Overwintered plants need checking for pests and disease and I tend to be ruthless and get rid of any that don’t look healthy - you don’t want problems being transferred to new plants.

Remove greenhouse pests too, throwing out slugs and snails and using a greenhouse fogger, such as this best-selling BASF pyrethrum model on Amazon to remove aphids, mealybugs and other nasties.

3. Check seeds are viable

While tidying our shed this spring I came across loads of packets of old seeds, some open, some still sealed shut.

If you are the same, don’t be tempted to throw them away because even though they may be well past the ‘sow by’ dates on the back of the packets, many of those seeds will still germinate.

It’s easy to find out. Scatter a few small seeds on a dampened piece of kitchen paper, seal it in a clear plastic bag and place it somewhere light and warm.

If the seeds are viable, they will start to sprout within a week or so and are worth keeping. If nothing happens, add them to the compost heap.

To test larger seeds such as sweet peas and morning glory, pop a few in a bowl of water and see what they do. If they sink they are sound and can be sowed, but get rid of any that float.

4. Give your lawn some love

Lawns often look a sorry state after the snow and rain of fall and winter, and as they often make up a large part of our yards they can make everything look messy.

Once the grass has thawed and dried out you can walk on it and start your lawn care regime to make it look better.

Scarify the grass by running a rake over it to remove dead material, known as 'thatch', then use a garden fork to aerate areas of the lawn that are prone to waterlogging. Plunge the fork into the soil, give it a wiggle, then repeat the process across the whole affected area.

Raking and forking both help to improve drainage and airflow around the grass, keeping it healthy and reducing the risk of moss and weeds.

It is also time to start mowing again once the grass has dried out and is starting to grow. Getting the correct mower height is important for the first few cuts to avoid damaging the grass and churning the soil.

If you are growing spring bulbs in your lawn, carefully mow around them without chopping down the leaves, which should be left in place to shrivel and die back naturally to feed the bulbs below.

Spring is the time to fertilize your lawn, and many feeds come combined with moss and weed killer. There are many products available, such as Pennington Ultragreen, available on Amazon. Follow instructions carefully when using. Always use products formulated for lawn weeds, as general weedkiller will kill grass as well.

Or why not create a wildflower meadow that is easier to maintain, pretty to look at and a great way of attracting pollinators and wildlife to your yard? This type of lawn is also more drought resistant, making it preferable at a time when the climate is becoming more extreme.

There are many different seed mixes available, but try to find one with varieties that suit your soil and climate.

5. Divide or move perennials

Perennial plants are some of the most easygoing and hardworking plants in the backyard. Now, as spring gets underway, they will be starting to produce new growth after their winter sleep and if you wish to divide or move any, or taking cuttings from fresh shoots, this is the time to do it.

Dividing is a great way of making more of your favourite plants for free, and reinvigorating old, less productive plants by getting rid of their sprawling woody centers. It is a simple procedure which involves lifting the plant from the soil and splitting it into sections, using a knife, spade or two garden forks placed back-to-back and wiggled apart.

Make sure each section has healthy roots and shoots, then replant them at the same depth as they were growing before and water well. Don’t be alarmed if they droop a little at first, they will soon revive.

If you want to move a perennial that has outgrown its pot or is failing to thrive, start by creating a large enough hole in its new position, and scattering some general plant feed at its base.

Then lift the plant as before, keeping a generous amount of soil attached to the roots and replant it as soon as you can, filling in around its roots with soil and potting mix, firming it down as you go to knock out the air pockets. Water the plant well and mulch generously over its root area so help the soil retain moisture.

Taking cuttings is another great way of making more plants for free, and the fresh new shoots appearing on perennials all round the garden is perfect material. As long as you avoid the main common mistakes that many gardeners make when taking cuttings, it is a relatively simple procedure.

The best time to take cuttings is in the morning when they are full of moisture from the night before. Select healthy material around 4in long, dip the cut ends in rooting compound and insert them in pots of dampened cuttings compost that you’ve mixed with grit or vermiculite to improve drainage.

Keep humidity around the cuttings as they root by sealing their pot inside a clear plastic bag or single pot cloche (I use half a cut-up plastic lemonade bottle) and place them somewhere light and warm, but out of direct sunlight. Once the cuttings start to grow, remove the bag or cloche, keep their compost just damp and move them into individual pots of compost when they are large enough to transplant safely.

6. Sow seeds inside and out

One of the best springtime gardening tasks is sowing seeds of annual flowers, biennials and perennials.

The soil will be starting to warm up now so it’s time to sow outside hardy varieties such as hollyhocks, calendula, cornflower and Nigella.

Prepare the soil by weeding it thoroughly and removing stones and old roots, then raking it until it’s fine and crumbly.

Dampen the soil and then scatter your seeds thinly, before covering them with a fine layer of soil. Firm this gently down and scatter a pest repellent such as these scented deterrent balls on Amazon to deter cats, deer, rabbits and birds.

Don’t forget to mark the sowing spot so you don’t disturb the seeds, and if seedlings emerge too close together, thin them out so the remainder grow healthily.

Half hardy annuals that are intolerant to cold should still be sown indoors in trays and pots. Their seeds can be sown outside when the frosts have finished.

7. Clean patios and decking 

We all want to be sitting out in the warm sunshine on our patios and decking areas, but before we do, make sure you have swept and washed them clean of fallen leaves, moss and algae.

Take care not to make any of the most common patio cleaning mistakes, and you will have sparkling hard surfaces that will be a welcome place for relaxing and entertaining.

Not only are these ideal breeding grounds for pests and diseases, they can be treacherously slippery - and no one wants to start summer with a broken limb or bruised bottom.

I use a stiff yard bush to sweep up debris, then use hot water and an organic, pet- and child-safe garden surface cleaner such as Scotts bleach-free multipurpose cleaner on Amazon to get rid of algae and moss.

Pressure washers such as this highly-rated electric model by Cat, available on Amazon, are ideal for blasting muck away from decking and concrete, but they aren't ideal for paved or brick patios and driveways as they can dislodge the mortar between the stones, causing dangerously uneven surfaces.

Take time to clean garden furniture too, painting or varnishing woodwork and buffing away any rust on metal arm rests and frames before repainting in the color of your choice.

8. Protect the garden from deer 

Deer will be breeding and looking for easy sources of food so make sure you have protection in place to keep them away from plants.

Motion-sensitive lights are one way of deterring them, though they may become annoying if they keep coming on in the middle of the night.

Deer-repellent sprays are a less invasive deterrent, as are wind chimes and old CDs hung off trees so they catch the sunlight.

There are lots of deer-resistant plants available, so consider growing bee balm, Russian sage, bleeding hearts and potentilla and if all else fails, cordon off your garden with deer-proof netting.

9. Plant summer bulbs 

Now the soil is starting to warm up, and is pleasantly dampened by spring showers, it’s time to plant summer bulbs.

These varieties bring so much color and richness to the yard - the canna lilies, dahlias, zantedeschia, freesias and agapanthus, not forgetting the varieties that flower on into the fall such as nerines and crocosmia.

In colder hardiness zones, start them in pots undercover and harden them off before adding them to the garden once the frosts have reliably finished and night temperatures have warmed up.

If you live in warmer regions, plant bulbs straight into the soil or patio containers. The optimum spacing is at three times their own depth and one bulb’s width apart. The resulting blooms also look better and less regimented if planted in odd numbers.

You will get better results if you enrich the soil with well-rotted compost or manure before planting and if you garden on heavy clay soils that are prone to waterlogging, this will also help to improve drainage.

Another good idea for solid soils is to grow bulbs in pots so they are less likely to rot.

10. Look after wildlife 

As we get busy in the yard, so its insects, garden birds and wildlife are increasingly preoccupied with nest building, feeding up and breeding.

It is a joy to welcome wild creatures to the garden and there are lots of wildlife garden ideas to help you create a safe haven for them and protect birds from cats and other predators.

Make sure bird houses are high and safe and that feeders and baths are regularly washed and filled with fresh food that’s high in nutrients, such as suet balls, seeds and nuts.

There should also always be clean water available for birds to drink and bathe in.

Make sure nuts are held in feeders so adults can break off small pieces, as whole nuts can choke baby birds, and never hang fat balls in mesh holders as birds can get their claws stuck in them and die a slow death.

Wild birds are not just fascinating to watch, they perform an important role in eating unwanted insects, so if you welcome them in you should have less need to use chemicals to keep pests at bay.

FAQs

 When do I restart my stored dahlia tubers? 

If you lifted and stored dahlia tubers when they finished flowering last fall, start potting them into containers of fresh general purpose potting soil now.

Keep the compost just damp, not soggy, and place them in the greenhouse or a cool porch and they will soon start producing new shoots.

Some of these can be cut off at the base and used as cuttings to make more plants.

Your dahlias can be planted in the garden when frosts have finished and night-time temperatures are warming up.

 What should I do with old chemicals?

It is against the law to tip leftover chemicals down the toilet or drain as you can poison rivers and water supplies. Instead, use up the dregs as you would normally and dispose of the packaging responsibly.

Alternatively, take them to your nearest household hazardous waste site.

Full details of safe chemical disposal, household recycling ideas and more can be found at www.earth911.com

 Do I need to feed plants and trees ?

Most established and mature trees have extensive root systems so don’t need feeding.

The exceptions are fruit trees and shrubs which will benefit from the application of a high potassium fertilizer, such as this highly rated Easy Peasy feed on Amazon, to boost flowering and fruiting.

Perennials will also perform better if you give them a general purpose feed in spring when they start to grow again. When buds appear, switch to a fortnightly dose of high-potassium fertilizer so they flower their best.

Spring is the busiest time of the gardening year, and the work you put in now will reap dividends come the summer and fall when your yard is full of color, scent and delicious fruits and vegetables. 

As soon as the sun starts to return after winter, our attention is naturally drawn to our patios and outdoor spaces. But after months of wet, cold weather, they are often left looking a little worse for wear. 

Luckily, it is rarely something a little backyard cleaning and spring home maintenance can’t fix to ensure your outdoor space looks its best and is safe for use in the warmer months ahead. 

These are the five simple spring patio prep steps you need to take to get your deck in top shape. 

Spring patio prep

Spring patio prep is the simplest way to ensure your patio impresses guests and leaves you feeling revitalized when spending time outside in summer. There is nothing worse than trying to relax in the sun and not being able to take your eyes off of a rotting leaf pile blown into a far corner, or worrying about slippery decking and wobbly tiles. 

These are the five steps to a perfect patio you should see through by the end of spring. 

1. Start with a deep clean

‘Even with regular maintenance, the effects of winter and the generally cold, damp conditions often leave our outdoor spaces looking undesirable,’ begins Andy McLaughlin, a paving specialist at RF Paving. 

Before you start cleaning, he recommends asking yourself two questions to avoid some common patio cleaning mistakes – what are you cleaning off of your patio? And what are the patio materials? This can help you determine the best products and approaches to use. ‘Using the wrong solutions unknowingly, could result in the paving being damaged, and in some circumstances, this could be irreversible,’ he warns. 

If your patio is going green and has signs of moss growth (the most common patio concern after winter) a simple spray solution such as Green Gobbler, available at Walmart, is usually enough to bring your patio back to life in time for summer without the need to scrub. Brushing debris away from the surface before you start and working on a dry wind-free day will ensure quick and easy results. Just be sure to check the solution you use is suitable for your patio surface.  

Pressure washing is a good chemical-free alternative, but it needs to be used with caution to prevent damage, Andy adds: 

‘If using high-pressure water cleaner, then avoid spraying directly onto the joints. If the pressure is too high, and/or sprayed directly at the joint, this could result in dislodging the jointing compound.' 

General advice for pressure washing is to direct the nozzle at a 45-degree angle to the paving and maintain a suitable distance (at least 12 inches). 

2. Repair any winter damage

A common patio mistake is laying it one year and neglecting to maintain it in the years following. Even the best-laid patio will develop the occasional wear and tear or loose paver occasionally, not to mention wooden patios may begin to rot. Annual maintenance is a must if you want it to stand the test of time, says Jeff Palla, President of Mr. Handyman, a Neighborly Company. 

Start by checking for loose joints, nails, splinters, cracked wood and stones, and general wear. Many minor issues can be fixed yourself as a DIY project, but a contractor can help with issues regarding structural integrity, helping to check patio foundations, frames, and railings to ensure safety.  

3. Stain and protect wooden decking

Unlike stone paved patios, wooden patios and decking need some extra care steps to prevent them from rotting or going moldy outside. 

The simplest way to preserve decking besides keeping it clean is to stain it yearly to help waterproof the wood and protect it from the elements, says Gabriella Dyson, Solved section editor at Homes & Gardens. 

‘Staining a deck is the quickest way to protect the wood and enhance your deck’s appearance. Pick a stain that complements your deck's wood and is suitable for your local weather conditions,’ she recommends. ‘Start by cleaning and inspecting for damage and finish with staining, working on a dry, warm day (usually around late spring) for the best results.’  

4. Improve your patio lighting

Patio lighting is another aspect to check before summer. Not only to keep your deck looking its best but to keep the area safe for use on warm summer nights – it can also help improve home security, explains Shawna Guevara of Landmark Structural Builders.

Check that your patio lighting is all in working order. It might be that over winter pests have chewed through wires or bad weather has damaged even the best waterproof outdoor lighting. Replacing or repairing broken lights is a quick fix that will instantly elevate the space.  

5. Plan improvement projects

A patio or deck is one of the best backyard improvements that add value, but that doesn't mean you should stop at simply installing one. Spring is the best time to plan further upgrades and additions ready for summer hosting, suggests Joe Raboine, VP of design at Oldcastle APG:

‘With the start of warmer temperatures, homeowners are reminded of how they can spend time outdoors, making springtime a popular season for taking on outdoor renovations. This is great timing because, depending on the project, you can have your space to its fullest potential by summer. 

‘Consider how your household uses your outdoor space – would you enjoy a fire pit, which could be utilized throughout the year and add warmth and light to an outdoor space during summer and fall evenings? Retaining walls are a great option for those looking to maximize their spaces and create additional functional flat areas for play. 

‘The sky is truly the limit with outdoor renovations and adding a patio, outdoor kitchen or fireplace can make a significant difference in how a family enjoys and utilizes their space.’

FAQs

How often should you maintain an outdoor patio?

It is a good rule of thumb to carry out patio maintenance at least once a year in the transition from winter to spring, carrying out cleaning tasks and repairs as needed. That being said, it can be helpful to revisit small maintenance tasks in the fall to ensure your patio is well protected in bad weather. You may even want to add a cover for winter to keep your patio looking its best and improve its lifespan.  

How often do you need to seal a patio?

Patios need sealing to protect them from the weather. This process is usually repeated every three to five years, depending on your patio material, the sealant used, and the climate in your area.

Some common signs you need to consider resealing a patio include visibly flaky sealant, damage to the decking material, and extreme discoloration. 

Taking the time to invest in the upkeep of your patio in springtime is the best way to ensure your outdoor spaces are summer-ready, no matter if you are hosting friends and family for al fresco dinners, or spending some quiet time outside alone to recharge and relax.  

Want to make your tiny backyard more welcoming? These small backyard layout ideas will be sure to come in handy. Even the most compact spaces can be arranged in a way that makes them both functional and more enjoyable.

We know that not everyone has the luxury of acres of ground to play with. And, let's face it, small spaces can feel uninspiring at first. Being presented with a blank slice of patio or tiny balcony can leave us wondering where to start.

The good news is that any yard or balcony garden, no matter its size, is full of opportunity. In fact, it's easier than you might think to create your own mini paradise, extend your living area, and improve your quality of life. Plus, small garden ideas are often cheaper and easier to maintain.

But before you get planting, styling and bringing your small yard landscaping ideas to life, you'll need to focus on getting the bare bones of your plot right – and by that, we mean the layout. We've curated 9 looks to inspire any small space.

9 small backyard layout ideas

From balconies to decked spaces, these small backyard layout ideas will inspire you with new ways to arrange your less-than-large plot.

1. Find the light in a courtyard garden

Courtyards are commonplace in urban dwellings and can feel shady, overlooked, and uninspiring. However, with a few design tricks, you can turn a small, walled plot into a stylish setting.

Chris Harrington, Creative Director of garden design practice Harrington Porter, shares his expert advice when it comes to working with natural light. He explains that the sun should be a key consideration – especially in small plots with built-up surroundings. 

Some courtyards may only get a glimpse of sunlight during the day, or an hour or two in the evening. If you like sitting in the sun, make sure your seating is positioned to make the most of it, advises Chris. On the other hand, if you prefer sitting in the shade, then position your seating to match.

2. Use straight lines and structures for a tapered plot

Some plots are narrow with a tapered shape – almost like a triangle. This one shown above is exactly that, but as Chris Harrington explains, 'careful planting and structures were used to balance out the shape and square it up with the house.'

This included the addition of garden fence ideas, which cut into the plot in straight lines, adding a feeling of space and making it more practical as well as stylish. 

And on that note, for contemporary yards, Chris advises against using curves. Straight lines can always be softened with planting to create a more welcoming vibe.

3. Create a multi-zonal space

Whatever the shape of your backyard, zoning is a great way to add visual interest and functionality. This garden demonstrates the approach perfectly by creating three distinct zones using soft planting, a seating area on light paving slabs, and a plunge pool area.

Space permitting, dividing up a yard into different rooms can, paradoxically, make your garden feel bigger, giving a greater sense of depth and installing a sense of intrigue.

Use planting, screens, or changes in materials to create different areas. You could also consider hiding a seating area with plant-covered screens.

Designer Hannah Rickards of Hannah Rickards Garden Design suggests using different paving materials and patterns to create a sense of transition from each area and the impression of space. 'For example, try a brick path to a stone terrace, or a lawn to deck area,' she says.

4. Green up a paved patio with a living wall

If you've only got a tiny patio to play with, don't despair. There are plenty of vertical garden ideas you can try, including the addition of a living wall: a clever way to make a small space feel full of greenery.

Look out for hanging planters made up of pockets, such as these vertical planters from Amazon, ready to be filled with herbs, flowers, or even veg, for easy installation. They will instantly soften harsh lines and landscaping materials and up your growing potential.

Lining a wall with some of the best trees to grow in pots is also a great approach for either bordering or breaking up the layout of your space and making a statement. They can offer a subtle screen too – ideal for overlooked gardens.

5. Create seating in a compact, urban backyard

A place to sit tends to be a priority with most outdoor spaces, whatever their size. And with carefully considered small backyard layout ideas, you can create the perfect setting for entertaining, enjoying breakfast alfresco, or relaxing with a good book. 

Use large planters along the boundary and not only can you enjoy the backdrop of blooms, but they'll also double up as a subtle privacy screen. A look like this works if you're looking for small front garden ideas, too.

6. Green up a modern balcony with plants at different heights

Perhaps the extent of your outdoor space stretches to a single balcony. There are still lots of ways to turn it into an alfresco haven – you just need to consider your layout ideas with care.

Perhaps you're lucky enough to have views of water nearby, or fields on the other side of your plot. By using minimal fencing rather than solid panels, you can make the most of the outside world.

Remember to then position your seating towards the view to make the most of it – it will instantly feel like your garden is more spacious. If you're in an urban setting, adding some garden privacy ideas may be more suitable for your space.

A balcony can also be home to your own mini jungle if you wish. Using statement plants in pots arranged on different levels can play key roles in your layout, while smaller pots can be hung from railings or used as centerpieces for your table.

Need more inspiration? There are lots more balcony garden ideas in our guide.

7. Choose small, structural trees for a rectangular plot

Looking to give a small, rectangular space a bit more structure? Try using one or two of the best trees for small gardens instead. 

Acers (Japanese maples), which can be seen on the left of this image, are also perfect solutions for a boost of color with their feathery leaves. For a rustic, Mediterranean vibe, small olive trees make a great addition, and can be grown in large decorative pots. A clipped bay tree is a good choice for a more formal look, plus you can use the leaves in your cooking.

If you've only got room for one tree, consider choosing one which adds interest across seasons, be it blossom in spring, attractive bark in winter, or fruit in the fall. A small apple tree, for example, will bring delight for months on end.

In terms of making a small backyard look bigger, 'small garden trees can help,' says Hannah Rickards. Try using 'two trees to frame the end of a path leading to the next area of the garden,' she suggests.

8. Choose curved features, such as a firepit, for a side garden

If you have a side garden, or a plot that is long and thin, curved features - such as a pathway and fire pit - can help to widen the sense of space.

In fact, fire pits are the ideal centerpiece for small plots as they provide a focal point that can be enjoyed all year round. In winter, you can gather next to it with friends and family to keep cozy, toasting marshmallows and enjoying its magical glow beneath the stars. In summer, they're perfect for upping the ambiance of an evening party.

Using a pale material for the ground cover is also a good move to brighten the overall scheme.

9. Create split level decking, or sunken seating areas

City living can often be at the expense of privacy so it's important to first ascertain which areas of the garden provide a more secluded area. Consider whether you can structure your small garden layout ideas into sections, by creating a private, sunken seating space.

The strategic planting creates yet more privacy and softens the texture of the space. Clever backyard lighting will also encourage you to enjoy the space throughout the day and late into the evening. 

Working with levels like this is perfect for making the most of slightly sloping plots, too.

FAQs

How do you split up a small garden layout?

There are lots of ways to zone a small backyard layout. Try small, clipped hedges – either trimmed into neat rectangles or perhaps cloud pruned for more organic shapes. You can also use large planters. Half walls, made of stone, are another option, and you can add plants to them too – take a look at our small rock garden ideas for inspiration. You can also work with levels. Try putting a seating area higher up or sink it down, to draw the eye and section it away into a separate room.

There are so many options for smaller outdoor spaces. If your budget will allow, you can even plan a pool scheme in a small backyard. If you're looking for natural privacy screening options in your small space, you might be interested in the best privacy trees for small backyards.  

Garden drainage solutions are a must if you live somewhere that is affected by heavy, frequent rainfall. Without necessary measures in place to control water run-off, plots can begin to flood, flower beds can erode, and plants can become ruined.

What's more, puddles on your backyard landscaping ideas, such as decking and paving, can lead to damage, thus reducing their lifespan drastically and upping the need for more regular maintenance. It's a safety hazard, too – no one wants to slip over while trying to enjoy their outdoor living space.

'Owing to changes in climate we have seen a dramatic shift in garden design trends in recent years,' says deputy gardens editor at Homes & Gardens, Teresa Conway. 'As we experience more drastic weather, periods of heavy rainfall and drought, garden designers are having to incorporate solutions to these extremes into their plans.

'Ensuring a garden has sufficient drainage should be the minimum expectation for all backyards, in particular, flood-risk areas. Incorporating creative rain harnessing solutions are a bonus,' she says.

Reduce the risk of flooding with these garden drainage solutions

'Poor drainage in the garden can create problems with being able to grow plants,' says Kody Kettering, landscape and outdoor maintenance expert.

'What we try to do in our designs is make sure we have a good base for the water to move through the garden,' he says.

1. Improve your lawn's ability to soak up rain

A boggy lawn is every gardener's woe. Excess water will compact the soil and drown the grass, leaving a muddy lawn in place of luscious green turf. There is, however, a way to avoid this mishap.

David Hedges Gower, a lawn care specialist, suggests ensuring you have a lawn care plan in place that includes how to aerate a lawn. 'Aeration will allow the best chance for your lawn to survive if you have flooding,' he says. It will ensure there is adequate space in the soil beneath your lawn for soaking up as much water as possible.

However, for the best results, you need to ensure you're doing the right type of aeration. 'Adding a fork into a soil profile will not change its soil structure and therefore will rarely improve anything for more than minutes,' he says. 

Instead, use a plug aerator. Try this Jardineer Plug Aerator Lawn Tool at Walmart. There is no need to remove the plugs afterward – they will break back down naturally into your lawn's surface. 

David also warns against artificial grass if you live in an area prone to floods. 'Fake grass, together with its matting and installation substrate, cannot percolate heavy rainwater as efficiently as natural turf,' he says.

2. Install decking with rainfall in mind

Without proper garden drainage solutions, timber deck ideas can be prone to rot, the likelihood of mold is increased, and the shape and finish of the structure can become distorted. What's more, pooling water beneath your deck can erode soil, harbor bacteria, and encourage insects such as mosquitoes.

When building a deck, ensure there is adequate spacing between each board to reduce the risk of puddles forming on the surface. Beneath your deck, apply flashing as a moisture barrier, and for ultimate protection, a drainage system. 

Look for products that will keep water safely away from the joists, beams, and the exterior of your home. It can be as simple as corrugated plastic sheets, but you'll want to ensure they are water-tight.

Alternatively, install a sloped, non-permeable surface below your deck that will drain water away from your home in a controlled manner.

3. Incorporate drainage into patios

No one wants their patio ideas to be covered in puddles, which is why it's important to add garden drainage to your outdoor living space.

One of the most effective approaches is installing drainage channels, which can provide a solution for patios and driveway design, including areas around garages and conservatories. 

Water from the drainage channels can flow into a storm drain or soakaway. Soakaways are a pit in the ground, usually filled with gravel which allows water to slowly soak through to the soil.

Another option is to use permeable paving, or opt for a gravel patio – both of which will reduce the likelihood of standing water on your space. Don't forget about the impact of a slight slope, too, which can help drain rainwater run-off into nearby flower beds or other drainage areas. This is especially prudent if you want to design a patio from scratch.

4. Improve the soil structure of your flower beds

Digging over the soil to incorporate grit will aid drainage in planting beds. Applying organic matter will also improve the soil structure of your flower beds and borders, as will adding a balanced fertilizer in spring, followed by a layer of mulch over the root area.

If you get lots of rain in your region, you may want to swap out borders for raised garden beds instead, as they tend to be better for drainage and the soil structure is easier to control. 

There are also plenty of plants for wet soil, so if you want to reduce the risk of damage, opt for these in areas prone to water retention.

5. Get creative with rain gardens

Don't forget there are plenty of creative ways to incorporate garden drainage ideas into your outdoor space, including building a rain garden as a natural area for excess water to collect. 

Green roofs, for instance, will help to absorb rain thus reducing run-off. They look beautiful too, and are wonderful for visiting wildlife. 

Other elements that can be included are water butts – ideal if you're looking to create a more sustainable garden. Plus, there are other linking elements that can be added to channel rainwater around your plot towards a dedicated rain garden (a shallow, dug-out dip in the ground, often filled with suitable plants, made for soaking up water). These include rills, rain chains, and small ponds. 

FAQs

There are multiple options to reduce surface water runoff in your yard. Consider installing a french drain in your yard if you want a quick and relatively easy way to reduce waterlogged soil. 

If your garden floods it's one thing. But if inclement weather has caused your interior to flood, then you might find our guide on how to prevent mold after a flood useful.

As temperatures plummet and frost and snow set in, our outdoor hardscaping can become hazardous. True, some areas can be avoided until the inclement weather passes, but sometimes this isn't practical – there are many instances where you'll still need to get from A to B without slipping over.

Maybe you need to get from your back door to your bird feeder to replenish it for hungry feathered friends, or you want to pop to your greenhouse to check on overwintering plants and seedlings. Perhaps you simply need to get to your car and back again everyday. Or maybe, you just want to be able to admire your winter garden in all its glistening glory. Whatever the case, these expert tips will help.

Expert advice for de-icing your yard

Get your garden paths, patios, and decking clear from snow and ice, without damaging them.

How to de-ice paths and patios

'Sweeping any debris or snow off your pavers shields them against the freeze-thaw cycle by keeping the area drier,' explains Joe Raboine of Belgard. 'A soft-bristled push broom makes the work more efficient.

'When the snow builds up, it’s tempting to reach for the snow shovel to clear your path. But metal shovels or those with sharp blades and points can scratch the surface of your pavers,' he continues. 'If you plan to use a shovel, make sure it’s plastic – but your best bet is a snowblower.'

This poly snow shovel from Bully Tools at Amazon is a popular choice.

Then, once the snow is cleared, it's time to think about de-icers, says landscaping expert Tom Su. 'There are a bunch of options out there, but not all are created equal.

'Rock salt (sodium chloride) is the old standby because it’s cheap and effective, but it can be harsh on plants and can damage concrete and wood over time,' he says. It can also deteriorate stone.

Calcium chloride or magnesium chloride are popular alternatives and are safer for nearby plants. They also work at lower temperatures, but they can be pricier, Tom points out. However, it's always important to double check products are suitable for your patio's specific material before applying them, and to avoid using them excessively.

Top tip: Sealing your pavers helps prevent damage from water and ice, as these elements can degrade the surface of pavers over time, says Joe. 'Applying a proper sealant every three years is recommended. Don’t overdo it – too much sealant leaves a film on pavers that can cause discoloration.'

Tom also suggests mixing your de-icer with sand. 'This not only helps it spread more evenly, but the sand also adds traction to slippery surfaces and reduces the amount of de-icer you need. Be strategic about where you apply it – focus on high-traffic areas and spots prone to icing, like steps and slopes.'

Remember, de-icing isn't always a one-time job. 'It's essential to regularly monitor the path and reapply de-icing materials as needed, especially during freezing temperatures,' says Jimmy Evans at San Diego Concrete Construction.

Top tip: Most commercial de-icers are unsafe for pets, causing symptoms such as skin irritation, ulcers, and gastrointestinal issues if ingested. In other words, if you have four-legged friends, use ice melts with extreme caution, or not at all.

How to de-ice decking

'For light snow dustings, you can use a simple broom in lieu of a snow shovel,' says Leslie Adkins of Trex Decking. 'If using a shovel, exercise caution, as certain materials can scuff or scratch your deck.' Just like with patios and paths, it's generally best to stick to plastic shovels for de-icing decks, as metal can cause damage.

'It’s also important to shovel with the direction of the board, which minimizes the risk of accidental dings and dents,' she adds.

'You also want to remove grime and debris from your deck before the cold weather sets in,' she continues. This includes sweeping away any fallen leaves to avoid having to clean residue they can leave behind.

When it comes to using de-icers on decking, proceed carefully. 'Avoid anything too harsh, as it can strip away finishes and damage the wood,' says Tom Su. Kerry Sherin, a home improvement expert at Ownerly, suggests using ice melts containing magnesium chloride or potassium chloride, since they are gentler on wood. As when de-icing pavers, check labels to ensure products are suitable for your deck – whether it's wooden or composite – before you use them.

Some homeowners also find that putting down rubber mats to create a temporary walkway can be helpful for a slippery deck during the winter months. Avoid putting down sand, gravel, or salt – these can scratch decks, notes Mallory Micetich of Angi.

Top tip: 'Applying a de-icer before a big freeze can prevent ice from bonding too strongly to the surface, making your job easier when it’s time to shovel,' says Tom.

FAQs

Once winter's over, Tom suggests giving your paths and decking a good wash to remove any residual de-icer. If it's been a while since you last did it, now can also be a good time to stain a deck. 

That way, your hardscaping will look its best again, ready for enjoying the springtime warmer weather.

Decking is a practical and stylish addition to any backyard. By offering a stable base for outdoor furniture, it creates a dedicated zone for entertaining and relaxing alfresco – even if your plot is on a slope. But there's no denying it can be a bit of an investment in terms of cost.

Because of this, you'll want to ensure your backyard deck lasts as long as possible. Fortunately, there are some simple ways to keep it in top condition – whether your deck is composite or wooden.

5 ways to help your decking last longer

Add these tasks to your to-do list for a long-lasting outdoor living area.

1. Keep it clean

A dirty deck looks unsightly and can also result in structural damage over time. But, when you go to clean your deck, it's important to go about it in the right way.

Start by sweeping away any debris. Then, for wooden decks, landscape designer Ward Dilmore recommends using a deck cleaner – which you can find at most hardware stores. 'This helps remove dirt, mildew, and stains that can accumulate.'

While composite decks are known for their low maintenance, they still benefit from regular cleaning to prevent mildew and stains, Ward continues. 'Fortunately, this process is relatively simple. Mix a solution of mild soap and water, then use a soft-bristle brush or mop to clean the surface. Avoid using abrasive tools that could damage the composite material. Rinse thoroughly with clean water to remove any soap residue.'

Do not use bleach on a composite deck, says Benjamin Kauffman from Upper Dauphin Vinyl Products – this deck cleaning mistake can permanently discolor it. Acetone should be avoided, too, as it can damage the composite capping. The capping is important, as if this gets damaged, water can seep in, he explains. This can result in rotten, warped, and uneven boards.

And, in terms of using a pressure washer, you should always use a fan tip and keep the pressure low, regardless of the type of deck you have.

Top tip: For both wooden and composite decks, it's essential to clear away snow, leaves, and other debris promptly, especially in the fall and winter, Ward says. 'These elements can trap moisture and cause wood to rot or composite materials to deteriorate.'

2. Add a sealant if necessary

After cleaning, you can apply a protective sealant or stain to wooden decks, advises Ward. This should be done every two years or so. 'This step is crucial for preventing water damage, UV fading, and maintaining the wood's overall integrity.' This is a great way to protect your deck from sun damage in summer.

Stains are great at giving your deck a fresh tint of color while showing off the natural grain, while sealants are generally translucent (such as Thompson's Waterseal Wood Protector, from Amazon). You can alternatively use deck paint for a more solid hue. Whichever you use, make sure your deck is fully dry before applying it, and always paint in the direction of the grain. You may wish to sand your decking boards down a bit first, if they are splintered.

'Composite decks do not require staining or sealing, which is a significant advantage in terms of maintenance,' Ward adds.

3. Protect the substructure

Although easily done, avoid overlooking the substructure of your deck. 'Research shows that most decking substructures begin to show signs of decay within the first 8-10 years,' says decking expert Dave Kile. 'This is because the majority are built with wood, which is highly susceptible to moisture damage,' he explains.

'When building a deck, it’s important to remember that the lumber used for deck beams, joists, and stair stringers is pressure-treated to be water-resistant – not waterproof,' he continues. Flashing tape can be applied over the joinery and blocking to protect these structural elements from moisture and rot.

'It’s easy to do and is an inexpensive way to protect wood from deterioration due to weather and time. It also helps screws and fasteners hold longer for enhanced structural integrity,' he adds. 'Flashing tape is also an excellent option for protecting the ledger board from moisture damage.' 

Raised decks can also benefit from an under-deck drainage system, Dave continues. 'Using a network of troughs and downspouts, these systems capture and divert water away from a deck. They act like shingles on a roof to shield the wooden foundation from moisture penetration and can extend the life of a deck and its framing for decades. The other benefit of a deck drainage system is that it creates dry space beneath a deck that can be used for storage or as additional living space.'

4. Troubleshoot any problems quickly

It's always a good idea to keep an eye out for cracks, mold growth, loose boards, or any other signs of damage, highlights Todd Saunders, CEO of FlooringStores. That way, you can deal with the issues quickly, rather than allowing them to deteriorate further. 

Generally, individual deck boards can be replaced. If you're unsure about the process, it's worth hiring a professional to take care of the repairs for you.

5. Invest in a decking cover

A final way to preserve a deck for longer is to install a deck cover. There are plenty of stylish options to choose from, from high-tech, louvered, backyard pergolas complete with heating and lighting, to simple-yet-chic shade sails. 

These overhead shelters will protect your deck (and deck furniture) from intense sun and inclement weather. Of course, you will also enjoy the benefits – they're a great way to extend the amount of time you can spend relaxing outdoors. 

FAQs

Whether your deck is small or large, these tips will ensure it stays looking great and feels inviting. Combined with some ambient deck lighting, luscious deck planting, and some comfy outdoor seating, you'll have an elegant, elevated extension of your living space to enjoy year after year.

There are several reasons why you might find yourself looking for slippery deck solutions to make your outdoor space safer. If you haven't been fastidious about deck maintenance the result could be that things may be getting a little slippery underfoot due to a build up of dirt, mud, leaves or pollen. 

Maybe you've had a prolonged rainy season, live in a humid environment or are careless with your sprinkler and it's regularly dousing your deck. All of these can lead to a build-up of algae, moss, mold or mildew that contributes to a slippery and slimy surface. Other times it can be something as simple as morning dew that can make deck life a little precarious.

Meanwhile if you're thinking about new deck ideas, the decking surface you choose is also relevant, as some boards are more likely to get slippery than others. Many composite brands now have enhanced traction features, while timber choices such as cedar or redwood are less slippery when wet compared to other woods. With help from the experts, we've put together some slippery deck solutions, so you can enjoy your outdoor space year-round without tripping hazards.

5 ways to deal with slippery decks fast

'A slippery deck can be a safety hazard, especially during wet or icy conditions,' says home improvement specialist Joshua Bartlett, founder of I'll Just Fix It Myself. 'Several factors can cause a deck to become slippery, such as algae or moss growth, worn-out or improperly applied deck coatings, or simply the nature of the decking material itself.'

Take action now with our easy expert tips on how to deal with the problem of slippery decks, either to deal with an existing deck or alternatively if you don't want to make a decking design mistake when embarking on a new project.

1. Get your deck squeaky clean

'To treat a slippery deck, there are a few approaches you can take,' says Jacky Chou, principal and director at architecture firm Archute. 'One option is to employ some good old-fashioned elbow grease and give your deck a thorough cleaning.'

To clean a deck, use a mixture of water and mild detergent. This might be all you need to remove green mold from a wood deck, which can contribute to slipperiness. 'If stains are hard to shift, try a deck cleaner specifically formulated to remove any pesky algae and stubborn mold stains,' suggests Jacky. 'Scrub away with a stiff brush to ensure you're not just giving it a spa treatment but also removing any slippery substances.'

Although you may prefer to clean a deck without a pressure washer, occasionally you may, in fact, have to pressure wash your deck to remove embedded dirt, algae, or mold. First check your deck is made of materials that can withstand it to avoid making a deck cleaning mistake. Use a pressure washer with an appropriate nozzle and always follow the manufacturer's guidelines to avoid damaging the wood. Be sure to rinse thoroughly with clean water afterward. 

2. Treat your deck with an anti-slip coating

Once your deck is clean, consider applying an anti-slip coating or paint specifically designed for decks. 'These products contain additives that provide traction and reduce the slipperiness of the surface, reducing the chances of an impromptu slip 'n' slide adventure,' says Jacky Chou.

First find out how to paint a deck and prep the boards correctly. Then explore textured paint and stain options that provide a slightly rougher surface, reducing slipperiness while adding a unique touch to your deck's aesthetics. Always make sure the product is suitable for the type of decking material you have.

Another way of treating a slippery deck is by applying a sealant coating that contains additives to improve grip and provide better traction on wet surfaces while also protecting against UV damage from sunlight exposure. 

'The most obvious options are anti-slip decking stains, paints, and sealants,' says Jon Christensen, CEO of renovation company BidMii. 'These products contain particles that create a rougher, less slippery surface. They come in many different colors so unless you have a wild deck color, you should be able to find something that will match. 

'For the paint/stain, I'd recommend Cuprinol Anti Slip Decking Stain and INSL-X Sure Step Acrylic Anti-Slip Coating Paint.' adds Jon. 'For sealants, try RTG Deck, Porch, Patio Anti-Slip Paint and SlipDoctors Dura Grip Non-Slip Sealer.'

Meanwhile Ryan Vaughn, co-owner of San Diego Stamped Concrete & Staining, has this top tip that's worth knowing. 'In my experience, some of the best products available in the market include epoxy coatings with added grit textures or rubber granules mixed in. These coatings work well in high traffic areas.'

3. Use a stick-on anti-slip product

Another one of the quick fix slippery deck solutions to consider once your deck is clean are products that you can stick on the surface.

'While you can improve traction on your wooden deck through cleaning, sanding, and refinishing, a simpler solution that will also offer better traction is to install stick-on traction pads on key walkways and decking steps,' says Todd Saunders, CEO of FlooringStores. 'These are available in a variety of colors, from high-visibility yellow to black or transparent, meaning that they will only stick out as much as you want them to. They last for years and offer solid traction even in icy conditions.' 

Consider anti-slip tape too, available from Amazon. 'This provides more traction for your feet when walking on damp surfaces,' says Ryan Vaughn.

Whatever you decide on, always choose a product specifically designed for your decking material and carefully follow the manufacturer's instructions for proper application.

4. Maintain your deck properly

It's important to maintain your deck regularly to keep it in good condition. It's best to do a thorough inspection in spring, then repeat again in fall but meantime keep your eye open for any other potential problems throughout the year.

Look out for other tripping hazards such as any loose or damaged boards that may become wet and slippery over time. 'Replace damaged or rotten boards promptly to make sure the surface of your deck is safe,' says Jacky Chou. 'By keeping your deck structurally sound, you're reducing the chances of any unexpected slips and falls.'

If your deck tends to get slippery after rainfall, enhancing the drainage system can also help. 'Ensure that your deck has a proper slope or grading, allowing water to flow away instead of pooling on the surface,' says Jacky. 'You can also consider adding gutters or downspouts as to divert water away from the deck, reducing its exposure to moisture.'

5. Buy some non-slip outdoor rugs

If you prefer a non-permanent solution, placing anti-slip outdoor rugs or walkway matting on your deck can provide extra traction for high traffic areas. 'Opt for materials that are suitable for outdoor use, such as synthetic fibers or polypropylene, which are resistant to moisture and mildew,' says Jacky Chou. 'Ensure that the rugs have a slip-resistant backing or use rug grippers to secure them in place.'

Non-slip outdoor rugs now come in a great choice of styles and colors, so you can accessorise your deck with a design feature while also ensuring it's safe for walking. They are made from high grade materials that are soft underfoot and offer great slip resistance. They can also be rolled up for storage if your deck isn't in use during winter.

Try a waterproof and stain resistant design like this woven reversible outdoor rug from Amazon.

FAQs

There is of course the option of covering your deck with a pergola, gazebo or retractable roof to prevent it from becoming slippery. These help to protect the surface of your decking from the elements, making it less prone to water damage and the build-up of dirt, mold and leaves that can cause slipping hazards.

If your backyard is split level or terraced, you can use decking steps as a link to help you make the most of your space and access different areas smoothly. Meanwhile if you already have a raised deck or multi-level deck design, upgrading the steps adds a more polished look.

Deck steps are an excellent way to add a finishing touch to your yard, serving both an aesthetic and a functional purpose. With the right materials and design, you can create a beautiful addition to your outdoor space. 

Whether you're looking for some deck ideas to smarten up an existing project with some new steps, or starting a design from scratch, there are lots of smart options to choose from so it's easy to find something that suits your space.

8 inspirational decking steps ideas

Decking steps can really improve the look of your garden, especially if you're looking for sloped backyard ideas. 

'They serve as a transition between different levels of your yard while adding character to your deck, says Andrew Laurier, expert at Be Green. 'Decking steps are not just a means of accessing different levels of your yard. Instead they can be a design feature that enhances the overall aesthetics of your outdoor space.'

Factors like choosing the right materials and deck lighting, as well as avoiding common decking design mistakes are key considerations during the design and construction process, so follow our expert know-how to make sure you get it right.

1. Choose low-maintenance materials

When it comes to selecting materials for deck stairs, durability and aesthetics are key considerations. When building a deck, it's always best to opt for materials that are resistant to weathering, rot, and decay.

'I'm a fan of low-maintenance decking materials such as PVC, especially on a low deck or where it's located near water,' says Chrissy Arsenault, owner and designer of Live Original Designs. 'Composite is another great low-maintenance option.'

Avoid using materials like plain untreated softwoods, as they may not withstand outdoor elements, are susceptible to wear and tear, and can deteriorate quickly.

'If you prefer a natural look, go for high-quality, pressure-treated wood, cedar, or redwood,' says Gene Caballero, co-founder of landscaping company Green Pal. 'They're all excellent choices but will require regular sealing or staining to keep them in good shape.'

It's generally recommended that a professional fits steps on a decking area. 'This is to ensure measurements are accurate and appropriate materials are used,' says Chloe Grayling, product expert at Cladco. 'But if you have a reasonable degree of DIY experience with decking, it is absolutely possible that this sort of design can be achieved without professional help too.'

2. Accessorize deck steps with neat planters

Include smart deck edging like boxy planters, patterned borders and lighting panels to set off your deck steps with a professional looking touch. 

'I always finish my corners with a picture-frame border (no cut edges!) and closed risers and sides. I like a vertical board skirting for a clean look without visible framing, and it also keeps the critters out,' says Chrissy Arsenault. 

You can also mix in interesting materials for risers if you prefer a less uniform look. Cobble stones and flagstones lend a more organic and natural feel to your decking steps. By mixing up your hardscaping materials you get a more unique look that doesn't simply rely on wood alone.

3. Pay attention to design details

Certain safety considerations should always be factored into your design right from the get-go so it's a good idea to find out how to build deck stairs. 'The steps should all be equal in height, between 6-7 inches,' says Chrissy Arsenault. 'It's also a great idea to add riser lights that cast light downwards on a timer, for safety as well as a beautiful accent.'

Not only is this a practical consideration but the decking steps look better too if they are symmetrically spaced. If you want to mix up your deck color ideas a little, they can be a contrasting color. 

'Stair width should be a minimum of 36-48 inches, though if I only have two or three risers I may design long steps to more gracefully transition from level to level,' says Chrissy. 'If possible, I create a multi-level deck with a low, railing-free, transition space between the upper deck and the grass or patio. This just looks more open, and helps to define various outdoor rooms as well.'

4. Enhance deck stairs with lighting

Deck lighting will transform your steps into a stunning focal point in your outdoor space. Lighting is not just about aesthetics though, it's also crucial for safety, especially when it comes to steps.

'One of the most popular ideas is recessed lighting,' says Gene Caballero. 'These lights are installed within the steps themselves and provide a gentle glow that outlines each step. They're subtle, yet effective, and can give your deck a sleek and modern look.' We like these outdoor LED step lights from Amazon.

Another option is to use solar-powered post-cap lights. 'These fit onto the posts at the end of your handrails and cast a downward light onto the steps. They're easy to install and since they're solar-powered, you don't have to worry about wiring,' says Gene. 

If you want to create a bit of a 'wow' factor, consider strip lighting. This involves running a continuous strip of LED lights along the edge of each step. This can create a striking effect, especially in low light. 

'Use warm white light for a cozy, inviting feel,' adds Gene. 'Blue or cool white can feel harsh and unwelcoming, which is not what you want for your backyard lighting, especially as this is a space where you're going to relax.'

5. Use decking steps to connect zones 

In gardens with different outdoor rooms or zones, decking steps guide you from one area to the next. They're not just a practical solution, but can also serve to highlight the journey through your yard, making each step a reveal of a new vista or planting scheme. 

If you have a raised deck, for example, decking steps can act as a natural transition from the deck to the lawn or garden. It creates a more unified and cohesive outdoor space, rather than having your deck feel like a separate entity.

'In a sloping yard, multi-level decks with steps connecting each level can be a great solution,' says Gene Caballero. 'This doesn't just make the slope more manageable and usable, but it also gives you the opportunity to create distinct areas on each level. You can have a dining area on one level, a lounge area on another, and perhaps a fire pit or hot tub on the lowest level. The steps in this case don't just provide access, they visually signal the transition from one zone to another.'

6. Soften the edges of steps with planting

Consider integrating deck planting ideas with your steps too. 'Plants of varying heights, colors, and textures can add a lot of charm to your steps. Low-growing plants can soften the edges, while taller plants or trees can frame them beautifully,' says Gene Caballero.

Steps are of course a fantastic design element for connecting your yard's various elevations with planting. 'Try incorporating climbing plants into your design,' suggests Joshua Bartlett, home improvement specialist and founder of I'll Just Fix It Myself. 'Climbing plants, such as honeysuckle, clematis, or ivy, can be trained to grow up and around the steps, making for an attractive and organic focal point. 

'By doing this, you can make your decking steps more welcoming and add a touch of nature to your outdoor space.'

7. Be creative with angles and shapes

Decking steps don't have to be all about straight lines, so if you're building a new deck from scratch then it's the perfect opportunity to be a little creative. 

Consider offsetting the angles of your steps, particularly if you have a large backyard. Angled steps can help direct people to other areas of your outdoor space, such as the pool deck or a lawn area. 

Don't discount curves either, as they can create a softer, more organic look. Do bear in mind that adding curved steps is likely to be more labor-intensive and require more than your average DIY skills, so it's a job best left to the professionals. 

8. Add decking steps to a front porch

Deck steps aren't just reserved for a backyard – they can be a wonderful addition to your front yard landscaping too. A simple run of steps leading to a covered front porch can be a smart way to welcome guests to your home. 

To ensure the steps are safe and easily accessible for anyone visiting your home, it's advisable to build a deck railing on both sides of the steps. Match it to the front porch railings for a smart, cohesive look. 

Scented plants, such as a beautiful rose, that can grow up the side of the railings will add to the curb appeal, creating an enticing fragrance when people brush past it on their way into your home. 

Adding steps is a great way to make a deck more inviting, ensuring that is accessible to everyone in your home. For safety reasons, remember to avoid any materials for deck steps that become slippery and therefore dangerous when wet, such as marble, smooth stone or glazed tiles.

Spring is the perfect time to get stuck into some outdoor cleaning – and if you have a deck in your plot, giving it a spruce is one of the best places to start. But going about it in the wrong way can do more harm than good – not only for the decking itself but also your own safety, as well as nearby plants'.

To avoid issues with this backyard cleaning task, there are a few essential factors to bear in mind, from the proper protective measures to take to the right tools to use. Luckily, the experts have plenty of tips to share for a successfully refreshed deck that you can enjoy all summer long.

5 deck cleaning errors to stay clear of this spring

These are the essential tips you need to know before deep cleaning your deck, for the very best results.

1. Applying harsh cleaning solutions

'One of homeowners' biggest deck cleaning mistakes is using the wrong cleaning agent for their deck surface,' reveals Todd Saunders, CEO of FlooringStores. 'Using a solution that is too harsh or abrasive can seriously damage the finish on your deck, making it more prone to weather damage over time.'

Kyle Leman, owner and building expert of Crossroads Foundation Repair, advises against using chlorine bleach, as it can damage the wood fibers of a deck, causing it to become brittle and degrade over time. 'Instead, use an oxygenated bleach solution that is specifically designed for cleaning decks,' he says.

Corinne Segura, a consultant on green building materials and Founder of My Chemical-Free House, warns against using chlorine bleach and oxygen bleach on composite decking, though. She says that both can strip the sheen, which dulls the material. Instead, she suggests using vinegar, baking soda, and dish soap, or a gentle all-purpose cleaner like AFM Superclean, available on Amazon. 

Todd is also an advocate for DIY cleaning solutions: 'For best results, combine vinegar and baking soda in warm water to create a gentle, all-natural cleaner that can make your deck look like new,' he says.

However, vinegar shouldn't be used on painted wooden decks, reveals Corinne, as this can damage the paint or lead to cracking and peeling – especially in higher concentrations. 'A gentle soap that is free of ammonia, like a biodegradable dish soap, works well on painted decks,' she says. 

Vinegar and baking soda, as well as oxygen bleach and acidic cleaners, can also damage the finish on decks that have been sealed with an oil product based on linseed or tung oil, she adds. Instead, opt for biodegradable dish soap, Rubio Monocoat Soap, available from Amazon, or AFM SuperClean.

2. Using the wrong tools

For a real wooden deck, be cautious with power washing because it can splinter the wood, says Corinne.

Kyle agrees, explaining that while power washing can be an effective way to clean a deck, using a high-pressure setting can damage the surface. Use a low-pressure setting at a safe distance instead, he says. The nozzle should be at least 12 inches away from the surface, recommends Brad Smith, an Interior Designer and the CEO of Omni Home Ideas. Bear in mind that too much pressure can damage composite decks, too. 

There are other tools you can use, which although will be slower, will be gentler on the material's surface. Ahmad Jamal, a cleaning professional from CleanersAdvisor, recommends using a soft-bristled brush or a non-abrasive sponge. 'Avoid using metal tools or scrubbers as they can scratch the surface, making it vulnerable to water damage and discoloration,' he adds. 

It's also possible to clean patio pavers without a pressure washer to avoid damaging the finish.

3. Not protecting plants

A few plants in containers can make a deck more inviting, but remember to protect them before you start cleaning.

'Many cleaning solutions can harm plants,' explains Kyle. If you can, move them off your deck – which will allow you to complete a more thorough clean of the decking surface without worrying about splashing them. 

If it's not possible to move them, cover them up, as well as any surrounding plants and grass, with plastic sheeting or a tarp, Kyle suggests.

4. Forgetting to dry your deck

'Standing water can damage the wood and cause it to rot,' says Ray Brosnan, a Cleaning Expert at Brosnan Property Solutions. 'It can also attract insects and other pests that can damage the deck.'

If it's a hot and sunny day, your deck may dry quickly by itself. But if not, after cleaning, Ray suggests using a squeegee or a mop to remove any excess water.

Even if you have a composite deck, which is less susceptible to rot, you should still ensure it's dry before using it. 'A wet deck can be slippery, making it dangerous to walk on. Additionally, if the wood is not completely dry, it can be more susceptible to mold and mildew growth,' says Christin Cieslarski of My Homier Home.

5. Wearing the wrong clothes for the job

'When cleaning your deck, be sure to wear appropriate protective gear, such as gloves, eye protection, and non-slip shoes,' says Brad Smith.

Christin agrees, explaining how cleaning solutions can cause skin irritation or eye damage. 'Additionally, pressure washing can cause debris to fly around, which can be dangerous to the person cleaning the deck,' she says.

FAQs

Remember, even with these practical tips up your sleeve, you should still check the manufacturer's recommendations for your deck when it comes to cleaning. 

'Different decking materials have specific cleaning and maintenance guidelines,' explains Brad. 'Failing to follow these recommendations can lead to damage, or void your warranty.'

From small-scale decorative features, through wildlife ponds, to natural swimming pools, the possibilities for creating a water garden in your outdoor space are diverse. 

You may like a grand fountain as a focal point in a formal garden; an added sensory dimension to enjoy while dining alfresco; a hidden away oasis of calm, or a stream meandering through a rockery – there are so many options to choose from.  

Attracting wildlife to the garden is bound to be a consideration and will guide not only the location of your water garden but also the ease of access for your little visitors. As with any water feature ideas, the first decision to make is where to position them. This may then dictate the options open to you in terms of what will work with the rest of your backyard space. 

Soothing water garden ideas to add to your plot

When deciding on which water garden ideas you want to include in your backyard, consider what effect you wish to create. Would you prefer a still garden pond presenting a picture akin to Monet’s Water Lilies; do you enjoy the sound of trickling water as a sensory garden idea; a babbling brook, or water cascading down levels?

In terms of the style of the water garden, will it need to fit in with a cottage garden style, a traditional aesthetic, or a more formal garden design? 

Your budget, is, of course, an important consideration, with the cost of installing a water garden varying greatly depending on the design and style chosen. Also, safety is paramount for small children in a family backyard, so any design should not present a potential hazard.

1. Surround a water garden with boardwalk and decking

If you have the space in your backyard, incorporate a stunning water garden that features many elements, including surrounding decking and a walkway, so you can fully immerse yourself in the space.

This stunning expanse of water, complete with glacial boulders and a wooden walkway snaking through it, was designed by award-winning garden designer Jo Alderson and built by The Garden Design Company. 

'If a water garden is located further away from the house in the wider landscape, it’s crucial that the feature nestles into the landscape. The feature should incorporate marginal sloping shelves so that different aquatic and marginal plants can be incorporated,' explains Rob Jones, director at The Garden Design Company.

'Overflows in case of heavy rain should be added, but this provides opportunities for a neighboring bog garden to be created, filled with the likes of gunneras, hostas, and ferns,' Rob adds.

Access for humans should also not be overlooked. 'A place to rest, chill and enjoy the feature is essential, while a boardwalk or bridge across provides an enticement to walk across that simply cannot be resisted,' says Rob.

2. Create a water-loving rain garden

With the change in climate resulting in more regular and heavy downpours, get creative with ways to manage the rainwater and use it to your advantage. A sustainable garden idea is to connect downpipes with chains or channels to shallow dips that are planted with plants that can withstand getting waterlogged. 

Garden designer Jo Thompson created The Cool Garden at RHS Rosemoor as a stunning example of what can be done to deal with heavy rainfall and flash flooding. 

As a sloping garden idea, the ornamental water feature is overlooked by a curved terrace with five water blades that feed rills running down through the area into a teardrop-shaped pond. Planting is in shades of cool tones and the garden paths are made of permeable resin-bound gravel to help reduce surface water runoff.

'This garden has really high rainfall, so I decided to embrace that fact and make the collection of the water, its recirculation, and the play of light on the moving water the key feature of the garden,' explains Jo. 'The water is collected both in the channels and rills as well as draining through the porous surface used for the paths, and then is re-circulated through the garden.'

3. Build a natural swimming pool

Designed to blend in harmoniously with the landscape, a natural swimming pool resembles a pond but is carefully designed to be both a delight to swim in while also offering the opportunity to enjoy watching the likes of damselflies skimming the surface. 

Unlike other pool ideas, 'a natural swimming pool is an organized pond, clear of chemicals. Whichever way it is configured – whether formal or organic in shape – there will be a large clear area for swimming and wide, shallow, planted margins. The result is a beautiful water garden idea rather than a plain blue rectangle, which will be alive all year and not just in the summer months,' explains Martin Kelley, managing director of Fairwater water garden specialists. 

'The water in a natural swimming pool is naturally clean, with no chlorine taste or smell. This purity allows the natural world to share the water, with the shallow margins full of wonderful life,' he adds. 

Maintaining clean water for swimming involves keeping the water clear of animals, ducks, and fish, along with fallen leaves and debris, to reduce the nutrients in the water and prevent algae. Some companies pump water through shingles as a filter, while others use plants to do the work. 

'Without a chemical poison in the water, the biggest concern is the growth of algae. These are simple plants that grow from airborne spores, and microscopic seeds that colonize in nutrient-rich, warm water. Tap water is high in the algae’s favorite food, namely phosphates, and keeping these under control with biological treatments is essential,' says Martin.

The desirable marginal and pond plants will use some of these nutrients to grow but once the season is over, they and the leaves must be removed where possible, to prevent them from decaying in the water and releasing algae food for next year. 

'The main body of the pond – the swimming zone – is left unplanted and should be cleared of stray floating plants or species that root to the pond floor. The regeneration zone is the planted, shingle margin and will benefit from any plant happy to grow in these hydroponic conditions. The depth of water can be adjusted by grading the shingle to allow for a full range of aquatic and marginal species. Deeper pockets will allow water lilies to thrive, whereas the shallows will be a great home for species such as iris, pickerel weed, flowering rush, or other grasses and sedges,' says Martin.

4. Include a wildlife pond

The aim of a wildlife pond is to emulate natural water pools with an organic, informal shape, where there will be both areas of shade and sun. 

Almost as soon as you have constructed one you’ll see dragonflies appearing from nowhere to skim across the surface, beginning the parade of creature as they discover this new habitat among your wildlife garden.

To help attract a wide range of wildlife, plant at the water’s edge and sparingly in the water, and create contoured accessible banks and sloping ‘beaches,’ with areas for cover as well as open spots. 

Blur the edges by layering water garden plants, as in nature, with aquatic oxygenators giving way to marginal planting, and then as it gets progressively drier moving away from the water, appropriate planting to suit the conditions. Plant as many native plant species as possible around a water garden. Place some stones and logs around the edges of the pond and a plank of wood or ramp will help any wildlife that may fall in. 

Take care that surrounding trees won’t cast too much shade, or drop too many leaves – rotting leaves give off gases that can harm fish. 

Varying depths in your pond will attract a wider variety of wildlife and help maintain a more complete environment. Your pond can be made from puddled clay or a good quality butyl liner and if possible fill it with rainwater.

5. Connect different zones with a shallow rill

Often running between fountains and ponds, rills are shallow channels along which water flows gently from one area to another, and work in gardens of all sizes. They can create a strong sense of perspective, dividing the outdoor space as part of your garden zoning and leading the eye to a focal point.

'Rills pre-date pipes as a means of transferring water and are generally narrow to prevent water loss through evaporation,' explains Martin Kelley of Fairwater. 

'If your garden is on a gradient, a stepped rill can provide sound and movement as water drops from pool to pool, or a shallow, textured floor will produce white and excited water. If the site is flat, a level ribbon of water can be reflective and dramatic. Any rill will need to be securely constructed from masonry and well-lined as these thin structures can easily crack,' adds Martin.

For clear, sparkling water, chemically treat it to prevent algae; left untreated, simple plants, and even ferns, will find a foothold and add a different dimension. 

These water gardens need to be perfectly engineered with the most appropriate pump, so it pays to engage the services of professionals. Materials for constructing rills can include stone, decorative tiles, toughened glass, or metals, such as aluminum, stainless steel, or corten steel. 

6. Go for a more formal pond design

Ponds of still water have wonderful reflective qualities, to mirror trees, the sky, or buildings, depending on where you position them. The slightest breeze will also add sparkle and movement to the surface. 

Formal ponds are designed as crisp geometric shapes – whether circles, ovals, squares or rectangles – and look appropriate set in lawns or in paving as a patio idea. They can be at ground level or built up above with capped edges, which could double as seating. The scale of a formal garden pond is important to keep all areas in the garden in proportion.

A dark lining will increase the reflective qualities of a formal garden pond and you can include aquatic plants in pots or baskets or leave the water clear. The depth will need to be at least 23 inches if you wish to include fish, and if it is very shallow the pond may dry out in hot weather. 

Planting around these formal ponds is usually restrained to let the lines of the pond take precedence. 

7. Create a focal point with a fountain

Water features have graced gardens for centuries, with garden fountain ideas being among the earliest. Early wall fountains were driven by gravity, but by the 18th century, pumps were used to feed the water through. 

Some wall-mounted fountains are self-contained, spouting the jet of water into a small tank, where a pump then circulates the water. Others send the water to a tank at ground level or onto stones that conceal the hidden tank with a submersible pump. 

Electric or solar-powered wall fountains are available to buy that include the sculpture and all the parts. Seek the advice of a qualified electrician if you are unsure about electrical installation. 

Empty and clean your wall fountain every couple of months to avoid algae building up and ensure there is enough water in the fountain to keep it working effectively. If the pump stops working, first check to see if it is clogged with debris, check the water level, and that the fountain isn’t leaking. 

8. Keep it simple with a repurposed water container

Finding interesting containers to use as a water garden idea – from half barrels to animal drinking troughs – is a fabulous way to introduce the soothing sound of water to your plot. 

You will need to line wooden containers with a double layer of pond liner fabric (available from Amazon) that is at least 10mm thick to avoid water leaching out, and with any container, ensure it hasn’t been treated with any poisonous chemicals that can leach into the water and kill fish or plants.

Be sparing with your planting for a simple look – consider the likes of irises, sedges, or waterlilies. Aquatic or marginal plants are generally fast-growing, so you will achieve a fairly instant effect. 

These small-scale water garden ideas make excellent focal points in a courtyard garden, whether positioned on the ground or elevated for more prominence, while they can create a lovely vignette surrounded by planting in beds or borders. 

9. Attract feathered friends with a bird bath

Even introducing a simple bird bath idea will encourage wildlife into your garden, providing a reliable, clean source of water for birds to drink from and also to bathe in to clean and preen their feathers. Bird baths can be especially important when natural sources are either frozen in winter or dried up in summer. 

Choose a sturdy design that is easy to keep clean, and has rough sides for birds to perch on, or add some pebbles in the water. Ideally, a bird bath should be rinsed out daily and cleaned every week to avoid the build-up of bird droppings, algae, and dead leaves. Wear gloves and use a non-toxic household disinfectant followed by a thorough rinse. 

The RSPB recommends a sloping bird bath, with water between a depth of 1-4 inches. Position it in an open spot where birds will feel safe and are able to fly off to nearby cover. 

Stone is a traditional choice and works well among cottage garden plants or even as a focal point if you are designing a parterre garden. But there are lots of decorative options and shapes to choose from, whether to position in garden beds, on the lawn, or among the flowering medley of a wildflower garden. 

The soothing sound of water is a pleasing addition to any backyard, so any way you can introduce it to your space is beneficial. What's more, they're an incredibly effective way to give your yard a decorative focal point, even turning a forgotten, unloved corner into a welcoming spot. 

A luscious lawn has been a classic backyard feature for decades, but there are lots of reasons to opt out and choose an alternative. True, a verdant stretch of green can look impressive and inviting. But, it takes a lot of work to maintain such an immaculate aesthetic, with hours spent on mowing, watering, aerating, and all the other necessary tasks.

By choosing backyard ideas without lawns, you can create a space that's easier to look after. Plus, you'll be cutting back on water usage and pesticides, which will make your space more eco-friendly. 

And if you're worried that taking out turf will reduce your yard's good looks, don't be. In many cases, opting for lawn alternatives actually improves the aesthetics, points out Rhys Charles, CEO and Founder of Mower On The Lawn. Materials such as pavers and pebbles can add color, texture and pattern to the landscape, which would otherwise be limited to the green of grass, he says. Taking out a lawn frees up space for extra planting potential, too.

7 backyard looks without lawns that will inspire you to ditch the turf

Whether you love the look of a modern backyard, or prefer something softer and traditional, you don't have to rely on a lawn to fill space if you don't want to. These looks are fuss-free, practical, and look fabulous, too.

1. Incorporate decking

'A wooden or composite deck is the perfect solution for creating a cozy outdoor
living space,' says Riley Luo from East Oak. Decking provides a sturdy base for your furniture and is useful for breaking a plot up into levels or making the most of a sloping plot.

'Choose from a variety of shapes and sizes to fit your backyard and make it truly your own with a stain or paint color that matches your home's color scheme,' Riley says. Don't forget you could always add an outdoor rug for an extra layer of pattern and color – we like this indoor/outdoor design from Anthropologie.

Wooden decking has a rustic appeal that many homeowners love, but it does need a bit of TLC each year to keep it in good condition and combat damp and rot. Composite decks – although more expensive upfront – tend to last much longer so can save you money in the long run. Plus nowadays, they can look just as realistic as timber. 

Composite decking is often designed to be non-slip, too, which is practical for regions that see lots of rainfall, or if you're installing a pool deck.

2. Swap in paving

'Paved patios and walkways made from natural stone or concrete pavers are a low-maintenance dream come true,' says Riley. 'Not only do they offer a durable surface for outdoor entertaining and dining, but they can also be designed in an array of patterns and colors to perfectly complement your home's exterior.' In fact, carefully-chosen backyard paving can play a key role in enhancing a plot's overall aesthetic.

Porcelain pavers are another option to consider, which, although on the more expensive end of the spectrum, are well-loved for their tough and easy-care nature. They work especially well in modern backyard landscaping, especially if you opt for large format styles.

For a more rustic look, consider clay bricks or cobbles, laid out as meandering paths and secret seating areas surrounded by cottage garden planting.

Hardscaping often calls for elements of softness within the surroundings for a sense of balance. These two designs shown above demonstrate this perfectly with bountiful borders and raised beds – they bring a plethora of texture and tone to the scene while attracting beneficial pollinators, too.

Remember to consider drainage when installing paving. 'Permeable pavers are a wonderful option for those looking to make their outdoor space grass-free,' says Joe Raboine, the Director of Residential Hardscapes at Belgard. 'These can be installed with layers of varying-sized aggregate or stone underneath that filter and direct stormwater to underground aquifers. With these permeable pavers, rainfall seeps back into the ground, reducing the burden on storm drains.'

3. Go for gravel

'Decorative gravel is a great option for those who prefer a low-maintenance, modern look,' says Tom Monson, the Owner of Monson Lawn & Landscaping. 'It is generally less expensive than other options and can be used to create pathways or simply as a base for potted plants.'

Gravel gardens are also great for drainage, and can be planted straight into, as shown in the designs above. In fact, it's a popular ground-cover material for xeriscapes. This is a technique that uses native and drought-tolerant plants to create a low-maintenance landscape, explains Naveed Anjum Hashmi, Author of GreenryEnthusiast. Their popularity has been increasing lately in an effort to reduce water usage and create more sustainable spaces – particularly in warmer climates.

Incorporating larger stones and even boulders alongside gravel is an effective way to enhance the naturalistic look.

4. Make more space for plants

By taking a lawn out of the equation, you'll have lots more room for growing your favorite flowers and more. 'Adding plants such as ornamental grasses, succulents or a vegetable garden provides life, beauty and practicality,' says Jeremy Yamaguchi, CEO of Lawn Love.

There are so many options for including more plants in your plot. You could add large raised beds, try container gardening, or create deep and billowing flower beds. Just ensure you install garden paths, too, so you can water and weed them easily. 

For a variety of low-growing color and texture, you could also consider a tapestry lawn. And if you still want a space for lounging and picnics, perhaps swap turf for clover. It's low-maintenance and stays green year-round with minimal water necessary, Jeremy adds. Plus, it's great for wildlife.

Alternatively, you can follow a more organic approach to planting. Benjamin Vogt shares his advice on the matter.

'It's important for homeowners to consider how much lawn they really need or frequently use, and how they use that space. If the goal is to reduce water and chemical inputs while providing habitat for wildlife (and more beauty for us), then the more lawn you can eventually replace the better.'

'Our firm's gardens use a base layer of sedge (Carex spp) in shady spaces, and Bouteloua spp in sun. From that base layer, we drift and mass flower species that provide a succession of blooms. The massing and repetition of those species is critical in order to show design intent as well as provide a bigger beacon to pollinators flying overhead. Plus, these plants look good in winter – far more dynamic and wildlife-supporting than a clipped lawn monoculture.

'Density and layers is paramount as well,' he continues. 'This practice will greatly reduce weed pressure after the first year while shading the soil to increase soil moisture and help rebuild soils (for instance, after construction). Matching plants to one another and the site – behavior, method of spread, soil, light – is important to reduce management over time.'

5. Bring in a water feature

Bringing water into a plot adds a multitude of benefits – the soothing sound and cooling touch elevates any outdoor space, creates a focal point, and welcomes visiting birds and insects. It's a great way to mix up the materials in a backyard without turning to turf.

The classic garden pond isn't your only option. Water channels can add a sense of sophistication while breaking up paved or graveled backyard zones – straight, sleek lines are perfect for modern spaces while meandering streams can create a woodland feel. Wider stretches of water can be combined with stepping stones for a playful touch.

Water bowls, fountains, and water walls are other simple ways to create impact and can enhance a seating area. Choose shapes and finishes that complement other features in your backyard for a sense of harmony.

6. Make a splash with a pool

Bringing pool ideas to your backyard will instantly enhance your outdoor living experience. 

A focal feature of any yard, they provide a place to cool off from the summer sun. And, they're great if you're looking for ways to incorporate more exercise into your day-to-day routine, too. 

Combine a pool with paving and potted plants for a clean and contemporary scheme. Bear in mind that pools still require maintenance, though, to stay in top condition.

7. Embrace bark chippings for a woodland vibe

For an affordable and natural alternative to grass, opt for wood chips. A type of mulch, they'll help to suppress weeds and can be used directly around planting or to create paths. Many local councils offer them for free, and it's worth checking out if arborists in your area can supply them, too, at a reduced cost in comparison to bags bought at the garden center.

'Wood chips offer a more natural feel, but may need to be replenished every few years,' says Tom Monson. This is because they will deteriorate over time. Nevertheless, they're quick and easy to install, and look lovely in informal outdoor spaces.

No garden is completely maintenance-free; even one without plants would have to be cleaned now and then, but in our opinion, this would not be a true garden. Grass, plants, and trees by their nature grow and therefore need mowing or pruning, and weeds will always find space to make in between pavers. Many types of paving and decking are porous and attract the moisture algae need to grow, so they will also need regular cleaning. 

When you can get out in the garden, as well as admiring the first snowdrops rearing their nodding heads, giving promise of the warmth of spring to come, there are also some jobs to tackle through autumn and winter – predominantly cleaning, tidying, and getting ready for the return of growth.

1.  Keep garden paths and borders clear from leaves and debris 

Use a leaf blower and blower vac to ensure tidy paths and gardens in no time at all. From removing unwanted weeds and debris from your decking to getting rid of spilled soil and gravel from your patio and even sucking up the green-tinged water from a paddling pool, a Wet & Dry vacuum cleaner is an autumn garden essential.

2.  Remove unsightly weeds and dry moss 

There is all manner of weeds and moss lurking in our gardens. The general consensus is that they’re a pain – especially when they’re encroaching on our prized flowers or vegetables and sapping the nutrients from the soil. In the case of some (Japanese knotweed, poison ivy, and stinging nettles – we’re looking at you) they can also do more harm than simply spoiling the look of a border. Everyone knows about the nasty allergic reactions that occur from a run-in with nettles or poison ivy, while knotweed can tear through structural foundations at breakneck speed. 

Battling with a weedy lawn? Frequent mowing is a good way to deter them. It weakens the plants and stops them from setting seeds, which can eventually get rid of them altogether. Just make sure you attach a basket to your mower, rather than leaving the clippings on the grass. The latter method can spread the seeds around, escalating the problem. Once your lawn is weed-free, you can remove the basket and leave the clippings on the ground, which will act as a natural fertiliser. 

Alternatively, use cordless weed remover to effortlessly remove weeds and moss. True, it’s a little old-fashioned, but it’s certainly stood the test of time. Digging up weeds is one of those trusty, all-natural methods that, when done properly, work wonders.

3.  Remove stubborn dirt from patios and decking 

Patio, decking, and other hard surfaces around the garden discolour, thanks to the growth of algae, lichen, mould, and the odd spilled glass of wine. They can look unsightly and become dangerously slippery when wet, while the lifespan of wooden decks can be seriously shortened if the muck isn’t removed. There are several ways you can tackle mould and algae. A scrubbing brush and soapy water will get some of it off, but it’s not very effective and the problem will quickly return. 

At first sight, pressure washers do a very effective job. However, using a pressure washer lance on stone surfaces can blast lines into it, causing serious damage, while wooden decking boards can be splintered by a powerful lance spray. If you are unsure of the setting, use the washer on its lowest pressure setting and hold the lance well back from the surface being cleaned. Many pressure washers have a rotating head accessory. If you use one of these and follow the manufacturer’s instructions (wet the surface before starting work) it should do an exemplary job of keeping your surface clean and clear in no time. 

Also, be aware that the water blasted out by the pressure washer needs to drain away somewhere – if it doesn’t, you’ll soon be working in a lake, and when it eventually dries the debris picked up by the water will be deposited back onto the surface you’ve cleaned! Sweep standing water to the nearest drain point.

4.  Trim hedges to perfection with remedial pruning 

Hedges are great for wildlife and the environment, but they need to be managed. Hedges serve many purposes, from providing a clear boundary with your neighbours to creating a barrier for unwanted visitors in your garden or stopping people from cutting across a corner. They can create a screen to give you privacy and can baffle the prevailing wind to provide shelter for other plants. You can even use them within the garden to divide a larger garden into smaller sections or ‘rooms’. Whether your hedge is large or small, deciduous or evergreen, over time it will tend to outgrow its space or it may become damaged. Snow can weigh the hedge down and cause it to split, and strong winds can cause growth distortion. 

Many of the plants that are commonly used for hedging respond well to hard pruning to rejuvenate them and, when successful, it is often difficult to tell that the plants have actually been renovated. Remedial pruning is used to bring the hedge back to its former glory in a series of planned pruning, in stages over several seasons. 

If you can, always trim the sheltered side of the hedge first, as this side will respond more quickly and produce new shoots. This will help protect the garden when the exposed side of the hedge is trimmed. To make the task easier, start at the base of the hedge and work upwards so the trimmings fall clear of the area you are working on rather than catching on the lower shoots and getting in the way as you work. A combination of a chainsaw - to trim dead, damaged, or diseased wood - and a battery-powered hedge trimmer will do the job.

5. Prune perennials, fruit trees and roses in dormant months

Treat your plants to a light trim and this will keep things smart through autumn and into next year. It will help keep them healthy and in good shape, removing damaged or diseased stems. Done regularly, it also stops shrubs from taking over, letting more light into the winter garden to benefit smaller plants that may have been stuck in their shade. Another plus is that in some overgrown cases, it can even make your garden look bigger. Little and often is the trick, so things don’t get out of hand. It's the best time for pruning many shrubs, too, as they start to die back and they’ll come back stronger next year. 

Autumn is a key time for gardeners. It's the culmination of all your hard work in spring and summer, and the perfect time to prepare your garden for the colder months ahead. And at this time of year when everything else is dying back, neat lines of clipped shrubs can add crucial delineation and the stand-out factor as the rest of the garden fades away. So get your secateurs and shrub shears ready! 

6.  Give your lawn a final mow 

Put the goodness back into your grass and create a lawn to be proud of come spring with a final mow before winter. Grass doesn’t grow as fast during this period, so lawn care and maintenance may have become something of an afterthought. But this only means that they need a corresponding amount of care, in order to keep them healthy and looking their best. The first important task is mowing, which keeps the lawn in good health and offers you the opportunity to keep an eye out for problems such as moss or bare patches. Around now you should be aiming to mow just once a week before winter descends; this will keep the grass looking good. 

If you are mowing your lawn in autumn, be sure to raise the height of the blades to around 4-5cm. And be sure to never mow a wet or frosty lawn, as this can damage the grass.

7. Give ponds an MOT

Don't wait any longer to clear out your pond – you'll only regret it later! By the end of summer, most ponds are looking a little tired – full of overgrown plants and weeds. And now is the ideal time to clear them out, as pond wildlife is less active when temperatures start to fall in autumn. 

It’s essential to clean your pond regularly to keep the water in a healthy condition. When there is a lot of debris in a pond, it falls to the bottom and creates sludge or silt, which reduces the levels of oxygen. This is not only harmful to wildlife and plants, but the pond will start to smell, too, as rotting vegetation releases methane gas. A thick layer of sludge also creates high levels of nutrients, which will help algae such as blanketweed to thrive in the spring. 

In autumn, the main aim is to clear the water of decaying vegetation, to improve the look of your pond and prevent problems next year. Tidy up plants to prevent any more foliage from falling into the water and cut back spring or summer-flowering pond plants that have gone over. For most small pond clean-ups, you can simply remove weeds and sludge without taking out all the water.

There are numerous options when it comes to patio ideas for your backyard, whether you're looking to transform a courtyard, small urban plot, or a larger country garden to create a zone for outdoor living.

Think about what you want from the space; will it be a place to sit and relax, dine and entertain, or a place with a focal point to pause on your journey to other areas of the garden? This will inform many of the decisions that you make for the space.

With a wealth of landscaping materials available to complement any style of property, as with other backyard ideas, choose those that are suitable to the style of the garden and location. The tone of the existing or planned garden planting will also dictate the patio ideas that you choose.

Look at these patio ideas to inspire your own scheme. 

Patio ideas to inspire

When it comes to designing a patio, start by working out how you plan to use your new addition. This will determine which patio ideas are best for your space. 

Ask yourself whether your patio is to be somewhere private to relax and enjoy breakfast on a sunny day, as well as in the evening, in which case you will wish to include patio lighting ideas. On the other hand, is it to be a space to entertain friends and family, so do you want to integrate outdoor kitchen ideas or perhaps channel garden party ideas? Your answers to these questions will define the direction of your design.

1. Create a sunken patio area

A sunken patio area can be an effective way to create an intimate seating or dining area of your backyard, in spaces large or small. This can be particularly successful as a sloped backyard idea. 

You can build seating into the surrounding retaining walls to make the best available use of space, and soften the impact of walls by planting with tall ornamental grasses, training climbing plants to scramble up walls, or include hanging plants from beds above. 

Building a sunken patio can obviously 'be a more expensive option as it requires a greater amount of dig out, but it will provide privacy and also potentially shelter from the wind,’ says garden designer Peter Reader. This is a consideration if the garden is in an exposed spot.

'You can create seating areas that aren't immediately visible, that can feel like your own exclusive, private space, surrounded by night scented flowers such as nicotiana, dianthus and stocks, perfect to watch the sun go down,' agrees garden designer Michelle Brandon.

2. Mix patio materials

Mixing your patio materials adds interest and breaks up a large area, and it can make a smaller space feel larger. Do, however, carefully think it through so it doesn’t end up looking a bit piecemeal. If you hire a landscape designer they will use their expertise to make the most of the space available.

'A combination of finishes in the same material can lessen the impact of a larger patio space,' advises landscape architect Marcus Barnett, such as slabs cut large and smaller, in square and rectangles, and laid in different patterns. A mix of materials can also help to garden zoning different areas of the patio space, large or small, such as above, where wooden decking and stone slabs help to delineate relaxing and dining areas. Patio step ideas in differing materials can also help to create a journey through the space.

‘Choose mid-tones for patio landscaping materials – dark paving can get very hot underfoot, while white can dazzle in bright sunlight,’ says John Wyer, CEO of Bowles & Wyer.

The material chosen has to be sympathetic to the architecture of your home. You might opt for clay pavers to marry with slate tiled roof of a property, York stone to complement a traditional cottage, wooden decking, or sleek porcelain tiles for a contemporary clapperboard home. 

3. Consider sustainability

Select patio paving materials that are environmentally sustainable as possible as part of your sustainable garden ideas. Using recycled or reclaimed materials reduces the use of natural resources, while patio gravel gardens and other permeable surfaces allow rainwater to soak into the ground rather than contribute to flooding. 

If you are creating a patio as part of a larger garden landscaping project, you could look to re-use bricks, stone, gravel or cobbles that are removed from elsewhere. Always look to local materials to reduce your carbon footprint – nearby quarries and salvage yards are good sources. 

4. Plant between patio paving

To soften areas of patio paving, whether the area is large or small, then consider including planting between the slabs to blur the boundaries between hard and soft landscaping. This adds a lush element, and can enhance the impact of the pattern and layout of patio ideas.

As well as being aesthetically pleasing, it is a sustainable garden idea as it helps surface water to get absorbed back into the ground after rainfall, and increases biodiversity. 

There are a range of plants you can use that are low growing, hardy, will withstand footfall and might even produce seasonal blooms. These moss and herbs, including aromatic herbs such a creeping thyme or camomile; flowering options such as erigeron or saxifraga; succulents, low growing grasses, and many more.

5. Accessorize with pots and planters

Enhance the feel of the patio area by adding pots and planters as container gardening ideas. Plant them with a mix of evergreen plants for year round interest, or trees to grow in pots, augmented by seasonal blooms, from spring bulbs to summer perennials, for a changeable display.

There are plenty of choices of plants for pots all year round that can suit sunny or shadier spots. ‘Lavender, nepeta and similar scented plants can make a lovely surround to paved areas,’ explains John Wyer.

Bringing potted plants onto the tiles, deck or gravel will help to tie your patio into your large planting scheme. If your patio connects to your kitchen, then herb planter ideas are a beautiful and useful addition to the space.

With larger planters you can create dramatic displays and divide spaces on the patio, or direct the eye to focal points beyond – for a more contemporary space use a few large planters in materials such as corten steel. The beauty of smaller pots, is that they offer flexibility so you can move and change them with the seasons, depending on how the space is to be used. For a cottage patio or traditional space, a mix of container styles can add a more relaxed feel.

'If the patio is a smooth, natural stone you can  add some texture with planters and a dash of colour from planting,' adds Marcus Barnett.

6. Add a patio fire pit

With many of us wanting to enjoy our outdoor spaces 365 days a year, adding a patio fire pit will enable you to make use of the space even on cooler days or evenings.

There are numerous designs available to suit the style of your patio ideas, from rustic stone designs, to sleek, contemporary in-built table-top fire pits.

Providing warmth and atmosphere from flickering flames and the gentle glow, ‘fire pits make life alfresco a little cosier,’ says Claire Hornby, head of creative at Barker and Stonehouse.

7. Add indoor conveniences 

Designer Breegan Jane created the ultimate indoor-outdoor space for her California clients' back patio by incorporating interior touches. Overhead fans keep the space cool (and keep bugs away), a pergola offers shade from the midday heat, and upholstered chairs in the outdoor dining area make it easy to linger over long dinners al fresco. 

8. Incorporate a beautiful dining area into your patio ideas

When correctly designed, patio ideas can transform your garden into a room in its own right. ‘I always approach outdoor design the same way I approach indoor design, but of course with additional considerations,' says Georgia Zikas, founder at Georgia Zikas Designs. 'Ultimately, you want to create a space that feels like a natural extension of the home, and can function while looking great. This usually means some sort of seating area or outdoor dining table to enjoy summertime BBQs and parties. You'll want to choose furniture that looks great but can withstand the elements.’

Opt for charm-filled patio furniture ideas like this classic wrought iron furniture which brings traditional elegance to the scene. Pair with an umbrella over the table, which will not only protect you from sun but also add color and height to your vista. Of course, umbrellas are not the only patio cover ideas, you can also provide shade by planting trees, or adding a pergola or a colorful canopy.  

9. Choose paving that complements your home

Your choice of paving will predominantly depend on the exterior of your home. 

‘A traditional or country style property complements more rustic finishes, such as a tumbled limestone paver whereas a contemporary home will likely suit a straight cut porcelain paver with low tonal variation,’ says Isabel Fernandez, director at Quorn Stone. 

Choosing flooring for your patio ideas is much the same as selecting bathroom floor ideas: it needs to be waterproof and have a low slip-level. Opt for patio flooring with at least an R11 rating, which offers increased friction and therefore slip resistance. 

Once you've selected your tiles, gravel or paving, be sure to find out how to lay a patio as this will ensure that you have a comprehensive understanding of the process, even if you don't intend to lay the patio yourself.

10. Create a Mediterranean-inspired patio

Channel a Mediterranean-inspired paradise by opting for light colored stone flooring ideas which will create a bright basis for the design. Then decorate with patio planting ideas; here, terracotta pots filled with olive trees and rosemary help to tie the patio in with the planting elsewhere in the garden.

This patio goes a step further with its Mediterranean inspired design, creating a faux white washed wall – echoing that of a Mediterranean villa – provides an air of seclusion and privacy, with seating either side of an inbuilt fire pit. Complement your Mediterranean patio ideas by learning how to create a Mediterranean garden.

11. Add a canopy to create an indoor-outdoor living space

If you live in an area where the weather is consistently warm and sunny, your patio will be in near constant use. Therefore, you can afford to create a more permanent design rather than just sticking to temporary garden shade ideas such as parasols, canopies and sails. 

One option for a permanent canopy is a pergola. Pergola ideas are one of the simplest ways to provide a more intimate space in your garden.

12. Let your patio ideas be inspired by resort living

You can't beat the serenity of relaxing by a pool, but for many ,this is a luxury that is reserved for the holiday resort. If you're considering pool patio ideas to incorporate into your patio ideas, then why not let your design be inspired by resort living? 

‘If you're lucky enough to have a pool, I definitely recommend investing in some luxe loungers with great, outdoor-grade fabric cushions. This will make your backyard feel like a resort and you'll want to spend all your time out there when the weather is nice,’ says Georgia Zikas.  

‘I love to mimic the natural colors found outdoors, so I always recommend some sort of wood furniture set, or even rattan, and then play up nature through blues and greens in your umbrellas, cushions and other furnishings.'

13. Use flooring to create the illusion of more space

Emphasizing the width and length of your space will help your patio ideas to feel more spacious, especially when viewed from inside the home. ‘Go with a large format paver. The larger the paver, the less grout and therefore it helps to create a seamless space that isn’t broken up by numerous grout lines. Also opt for a grout color that is a close color match to the paver itself to give the illusion of a larger area,’ says Isabel Fernandez. Picking a large format tile is a great option for making a small garden look bigger.

As well as considering the flooring, installing patio doors will also help to make both your patio and living space feel larger by joining the two areas together. Adding patio doors will also help to increase natural light in your home, letting you to continue enjoying your beautiful patio ideas even when inside.

14. Make your patio ideas an extension of your indoor living space

Any outdoor space we have can become a valuable addition to family life and increasingly we see it as an expansion of the home. Use stylish patio doors to join outside with in. Folding or sliding doors are a popular solution, but aesthetically your patio furniture and the choice of décor and flooring can also help tie these two spaces together.

Marking a defined threshold between the end of one room and the beginning of the other is a good place to start. The choice becomes more dependent on which room leads onto the outdoor space. A carpet tends to be the norm in a living room, but next to a garden can be more tricky, so check out more natural, hardwearing living room carpet ideas, such as sisal, coir or jute. 

These offer an element of comfort but also will accommodate a certain amount of traffic too. Matched with wooden decking ideas, painted in a strong shade, it offers an interesting balance between the indoor and out.

15. Create a living wall to border your patio ideas

Patio planting ideas are important to research at the same time as you consider your wider patio ideas as they will work together to frame your patio and soften what can often be a hard-edged space. 

For anyone considering small garden design or searching for apartment patio ideas, a vertical wall is a fantastic option – it takes up little to no patio space but provides a wonderful, verdant backdrop. As well as creating an aesthetic backdrop to your patio, incorporating living wall ideas and vertical garden ideas will also improve air quality, reduce noise and attract wildlife.

16. Create a patio that connects to your kitchen

A patio immediately next to the kitchen can provide a backdrop for your kitchen ideas. 

Think about how materials, flooring, walls, furniture and planting will work with the space indoors and how they will look all year round, whether you are enjoying them in warmer weather outdoors or admiring them from inside in cooler months.

To bring your patio ideas together, think about how you can add color, texture and interest into the hardscaping by using paint to bring plants in bloom to the fore.

17. Embrace modern patio ideas with a terrace

Patios don’t have to be a one-level, just-outside-the-door affair. Instead, consider a multi-level terrace that can add height and interest to your backyard. Use the levels to create different zones and using planting to give the space a softer edge, but ensure you incorporate good lighting to be able to navigate steps safely. There are many sloping garden ideas you can incorporate into any style of design.

18. Pick plants that enhance the space

There are plenty of different planting ideas that will really elevate your space, from Mediterranean plants for a sun-loving spot, to naturalistic planting design that can suit many styles of backyard.

As a white garden idea, 'try using white flowering plants in small spaces like patios as they can help create light. They are also the last color that you see at night, so when planted in the right place they add depth,' says garden designer Sean Butler of Cube 1994 Ltd. 'While in shady areas, use saracoccoa, commonly known as the Christmas Box, a very richly scented evergreen plant that flowers early. A good all-round plant which crosses all boundaries is buxus (box). This can be used to create good structure.'

Make sure that you have plants on your patio all year-round as this will ensure that it's always bright and welcoming, even on colder days.  From glossy evergreens to vibrant bulb flowers, adding some of the best winter plants for pots and borders to your patio will add a new dimension to your winter garden ideas.

19. Furnish your patio like a living space

To ensure you end up with the best outdoor furniture for your space, approach the furnishing of your outside space in a similar way to the treatment of the inside. Consider warmth under foot by using outdoor occasional rugs, introduce punctuations of color in paint and variations of texture in furniture, throws and cushions to create an outdoor living room space.

'It is important to understand if you want the patio to allow for both dining and socializing in soft seating, or to only do one independently. Understanding this goal, and how many individuals you want to support, mathematically drives the scale of the patio,' says Cathy Purple Cherry from Purple Cherry Architects.

To ensure there's room in the budget to furnish your outdoor space appropriately, plan it into your patio costs from the beginning.

20. Consider decking materials for raised patios

Elevated patios are best made from decking – chosen because it's lightweight and easy on the eye. While traditional deck ideas were made out of first-generation hardwoods, now it's hard-wearing composites and eco products made of recycled materials that are all the rage. 

A softer alternative to paving, wooden decking harmonizes with trees and planting to create the perfect space for alfresco dining or relaxing, and it can be raised for better views. Opting for unstained wood means it will age gracefully over time, blending into the garden aesthetic.

Alternatively, opt for a more modern look by painting your deck – there are plenty of different deck color ideas to choose from. Dark colors are a great choice as they will instantly draw the eye, work harmoniously with the garden and are highly durable so won't need repainting as regularly as lighter colors. 

Consider finishing the look with deck railing ideas for a secluded finish to the space.

21. Create an inviting patio by introducing colors

Turn your backyard into a riot of color. Be inspired by the color of your favorite flower and bring your tired patio to life this summer. From delphinium blue to sunflower yellow, there’s plenty of color about to burst into life in flower beds and borders, so why not take inspiration from these shades of summer when you're planning garden color schemes.

When painting your patio area, it is important to be aware of the different paint finishes and the effect these have on your space. Firstly, it is important to select an exterior paint as this will ensure that it can cope with the a range of different environments and temperatures without cracking, peeling or running. Opt for a satin or eggshell finish as they offer low-levels of reflection, so help to disguise uneven surfaces and imperfections yet have a slight gloss, that means they can be wiped clean more easily.

22. Create a living canopy for your patio

Shade garden ideas come into their own when designing a patio. Not only will a shaded area create a cooling spot to relax on hot summer days but it will also make your garden a joy to use all day long. 

There are lots of different covered patio ideas to choose from, but one of our favorites is a living canopy. This simple yet effective design sees a pergola draped with foliage and climbing plants to create a botanical haven, offering shade and privacy. When deciding to create a living canopy choosing the best flowering climbers is essential, as is selecting fast-growing flowering vines, combining these two types of plant will create a luscious space that will be full of color and perfume during summer.

23. Include an outdoor patio cook space

Adding an outdoor kitchen to your patio ideas can extend its use, creating a space not just for dining and lounging but for living in warmer months. When figuring out how to plan an outdoor kitchen, approach it just as you would indoors. Create a dedicated cooking zone, accompanied by preparation space, as well as a closely connected dining area. Quick access to running water is also a must so be sure to incorporate a tap and sink into your design.

24. Create a patio focal point with a faux fireplace

If yours is a sheltered or enclosed patio, you have the opportunity to treat the space as you would a room indoors. In this case, a focal point will be beneficial to your outdoor room. Here a characterful Victorian fireplace is a quirky addition to the space but one that instantly draws the eye.

This faux fireplace serves as an aesthetic focus, and you can furnish the rest of the patio with plants,  candles and a cozy sofa to create an inviting space.

25. Surround a patio with cottage planting

A patio is a great addition to a cottage garden, but let your design be inspired by nature and opt for natural materials that will seamlessly integrate into your space. Select natural stone flooring – there are plenty of stone flooring types to choose from – as this will create a naturally inspired backdrop to complement cottage garden plants.

Creating an elegant focal point on your patio by adding wooden patio furniture ideas that will lend the space a soft, welcoming aesthetic, ideal for al fresco dining and relaxing with friends and family.

26. Include a water feature to create a peaceful patio

Incorporating water feature ideas into your patio ideas is a wise move. Not only does it make for a wonderful design element and creates opportunity for a wider variety of planting, but it is also an integral part of wildlife garden ideas. 

If you are looking to fully capitalise on creating an eco-friendly garden, then maybe consider garden pond ideas instead. Regardless of its size, learning how to build a pond and adding one to your patio ideas will prove invaluable for wildlife.

Whether you opt for a water feature or a pond, adding garden fountain ideas is definitely worth considering, especially if your backyard suffers from noise pollution as the gentle, relaxing soundtrack of the moving water can help to minimize the sound of traffic or noisy neighbors.

27. Work patio lighting into your design scheme

Patios need to be well-lit to function properly at night – but unlike indoors where lighting needs to be occasionally bright, floodlighting a patio is impractical. 

Instead, use attractive outdoor lighting ideas to create soft lighting zones around the patio – whether creating ambient lighting with pretty bulbs, like in the patio above, or creating a display of lights on a table. An outdoor lantern is also a stylish yet practical option for bringing light into this space.

28. Position a patio away from the house

Your patio does not have to be connected to the house. While positioned adjacent to the house is the most popular location for many, it is by no means the only location. Any paved area in the garden which serves a recreational purpose can be deemed a patio. 

In the garden design above by Kate Gould, a sunken patio area has been designed in a garden area to create a private and intimate space away from the house.

If your patio is designed with daytime relaxing in mind, it might be worth locating your patio in the space that receives the most sunlight throughout the day. Alternatively, if your patio is intended to be a space to enjoy an evening drink, you might want to consider where the last rays fall. 

Walled gardens – or partially walled gardens – also offer another patio citing opportunity. With the walls radiating the warmth that’s been throughout the day, a walled patio will create a warm and cosy nook that’s ideal for evening alfresco dining. Why not combine your patio with an outdoor kitchen island to create an external kitchen/dining space that works independently from your home.

How do you make an affordable patio?

You can make an affordable patio by using reclaimed and recycled materials, and if you learn how to lay a patio yourself then this will cut down on labor costs.

You do not need to opt for the most expensive landscaping materials as you can make a patio more inviting by adding furniture with cushions and throws and patio covers such as umbrellas, pergolas or sails. Think of designing your patio in the same way as you do your living room, factor in colors, textures and lighting to create an inviting and welcoming space. These are all elements you would include if you wondering how do I add luxury to my backyard.

Don’t forget the look and feel of the space by night, too. Incorporate different patio lighting – even the use of hurricane lanterns can create a simple, romantic terrace full of warmth in the evening.

How can I make my patio look nice?

The key to making a patio look nice is to choose the two main elements – planting and paving – carefully. The type of planting you choose will help to soften the look and feel of the patio. 

Consider feathery grasses or velvety ferns, architectural plants for a tropical garden feel, or if your space is small, try to create a sense of lightness using plants with soft foliage and small, delicate leaves.

Color is important, too, when considering different patio ideas. Opting for light greens, silvers and greys will help create a sense of spaciousness, while highly reflective, shiny leaves can add light and shimmer providing a greater depth of field in the planting scheme. 

In larger spaces, fragrance is a good way of zoning. A variety of fragrances in different areas of a terrace can suit different moods and help them come to life at different times of day. 

What is the best material for a patio floor?

Ideally you want to choose and sustainable and long lasting material for your patio floor. Natural, local stone is ideal, as it will complement the location, be hardwearing and long lasting, and add to your eco credential, whether this is natural stone riven paving slabs for more traditional settings, clay pavers, or sleek porcelain tiles for a more contemporary space. There are also a whole host of recycled and reclaimed materials that can be incorporated into a design.

Removing green mold and mildew from a wood deck is a job every deck owner faces every now and then. Leave it and it won't just make your backyard look unkempt and uninviting, green decking can also become slippery, hazardous and can even damage the deck's structure.

It is common for decks to develop green algae and mildew as moisture becomes comes trapped in the wood, so cleaning a deck yearly is a must. However, you may find that while it's worse in winter, it's also a problem in shady spots on the deck through summer, too. So, if you are planning on building a deck, or are about to stain a deck, you will need to know what to look out for and how to remove green mold from a wood deck.

How to remove green mold from a wood deck

To remove green mold from your deck ideas, you will need to give your deck a regular brush with a stiff broom. Using a pressure washer on your deck at least once a year is an extremely effective way of banishing any build-up of dirt and algae, too, as well as giving your deck a fresh look by bringing the wood back to its original color.

If you do use a pressure washer to remove green mold or mildew from a wood deck, bear in mind that timber is made of fibers which can open up if exposed to too much pressure, which can cause the deck to become vulnerable to rot, so make sure to keep the washer's head at least six inches away from the deck boards, and ensure the pressure washer is on a wide spread setting.

Chris Moorhouse, Category Director for Timber with Wickes suggests investing in a wood cleaner, which remove algae and stains with a biodegradable mixture without damaging the deck with other, harsher products. Wood cleaner can be easily brushed into your deck and washed off with water and a stiff brush, keeping your deck clean of algae. This is a good, if slightly more labor-intensive, alternative to using a power washer and needs only to be reapplied every few months. 

A further step you can take to avoid the green algae building up on decking is to replace old boards with anti-slip decking, which is less prone to algae buildup. 

'Traditional timber and composite decking boards become dangerously slippery when wet or icy and as the result of the build-up of algae and leaves. If you choose anti-slip decking, this will be much less of an issue,' suggest the professionals at Gripsure.

Why is my deck turning green?

The experts at Gripsure explain that 'timber is an attractive substrate for algae to quickly take hold – the timber surface retains moisture and therefore they can remain damp long after the rain has gone,' meaning it can easily form mildew, mould and algae. When this process is repeated every season without interval cleaning measures to prevent algae from forming, your deck may be at risk of turning green and developing a slimy film. 

What happens if deck algae builds up?

The algae on your deck's surface, if neglected, can cause the wood to splinter and will inevitably damage the deck's structure, which will be an expensive repair job. 

To prevent and reverse the damaging effects of green decking we suggest using preservatives and staining.

Chris Moorhouse, Category Director for Timber at Wickes recommends using a layer of wood reviver to restore your decking. 'All cut ends, drill holes and notches in pressure-treated softwood timber need to be treated with an end-grain preservative,' he says. 

Gripsure experts advise that this will protect the timber against fungal attacks. 'Both softwoods and hardwoods can be oiled to prevent the timber from weathering. This will also prevent the timber from natural weathering to a silvery grey'

'Oils and stains are a great way to bring life back to older timber, improve the longevity and performance of your decking, and to make next year’s clean down that bit easier.'

How do you get rid of green on decking?

The experts at Deck supermarket recommend using a mixture of one cup of white distilled vinegar and a gallon of lukewarm water to treat the early stages of green mold from a wood deck. 

White distilled vinegar is a natural cleaner and much like other deck products it adds a layer of protection to fending off the onset of algae. After power washing your deck, leave the mixture to soak on your deck for five minutes. Rinse the solution thoroughly and wipe with a microfiber cloth. When this process is completed we suggest using deck stain to ensure your deck is further protected.

Can you paint over algae on decking?

You can paint over algae but you will get a very poor finish and will only cover the green deck look momentarily. The algae will continue to grow, so still needs to be removed. 

Answering the question of how much it costs to build a deck is difficult, though we will give you as close an answer as possible. 

If you are planning to undertake the project yourself, it is easy to be confused by varying material costs. However, even when it comes to using contractors, a transparent quote, bolstered with accurate pricing, can be hard to come by.

In this article we talk to the experts and ask them how much it costs to build a deck, whether it’s a small outdoor space or a large entertaining area. We look at the types of materials, the decking additions such as railings and steps, and consider what the total expenditure might be.

If you plan to build a deck yourself, or if you are undecided about hiring a professional, our simple guide will ensure you’re as informed as possible.

How much does it cost to build a deck?

The cost of building a deck averages at around $15,000 but you can spend as little as $1,000 or much, much more. Decking costs are affected by how complicated the deck's structure is, how large it is, the materials you use and the add-on deck ideas, such as stairs or railings that you want or need to add on. Plus there are contractor fees and potentially landscaper fees, too.

Here, we offer a breakdown of decking costs so that you can get a clearer picture.

The timber you choose affects decking costs

‘The cost of a deck largely depends on what materials you are using,’ explains Steve Vanadia, president of Vanco Construction.

Pressure treated lumber

‘Use pressure treated lumber – it will last a long time, but requires maintenance each year to keep it looking good,’ adds Steve. Pressure treated lumber is reality inexpensive softwood, and is widely available. ‘This type of wood will cost you around $25-$30 per sq ft,’ confirms Steve.

Hardwood 

Hardwood is less common and more expensive, though it is tougher. You will still need to maintain it annually, though. Expect to pay between $56 and $77 per sq ft.

Composite

Steve recommends using a composite option. There are a variety available including TimberTech or Trex. Composite ‘comes in many finishes and does not require maintenance. The approximate cost is $50-$75 per sq ft,’ he confirms.

‘Composite deck boards will cost more upfront, closer to the cost of the cheapest hardwood decking, but far outlast timber and you’ll see the payback after five to 10 years,’ explains James Bruteon CEO of sustainable building materials supplier, Envirobuild.

The cost of tools you will need to buy or hire

Below is a basic list of the tools that you will need to build your deck. You can look at hiring much of this equipment, usually at a cost of around $30 to $100 per piece, depending on the type of tool needed.

• Circular saw (Amazon's best seller is around $60)
• Hand saw (Amazon's handsaw is around $15)
• Power drill (Amazon's top choice starts at around $99)
• Safety goggles
• Chalk line
• Spirit level
• Tape measure
• Screws and hardware

How much does it cost to build a large deck?

Remember that any deck, whether large or small, needs a wooden substructure, so if you are planning to build it yourself, you’ll need to add extra timber into the materials cost.

‘The substructure supporting the boards can vary greatly according to whether you use treated timber or a no rot option and the complexity of the deck, this can easily double the costs of the materials, but it is very important to get it right,’ explains James Bruteon of Envirobuild.

If you are hiring professionals, they will add all of the materials, labor and other costs into the quote for you. Depending on the wood and the finish, expect to pay around $2,000-$5,000 for a completed raised deck.

How much does it cost to build a small deck?

Even the smallest deck will cost several hundreds dollars. Again, if you plan to build it yourself, you’ll need to consider materials and tools. If you are hiring a professional, even a small deck is likely to cost around $1,000.

How much do decking rails and stairs cost?

Installing deck railing ideas, stairs and handrails is a complicated job, but you can find out both how to build a deck railing and how to build deck stairs in our individual guides. 

You can buy ready made handrails, stairs and railings. A pre-made wooden staircase, with a handrail can cost as little as $500 or as much as $5000 depending on the size, look and finish.

How much does it cost to treat deck timber?

Treating the wood is another important aspect to factor into deck build costs. Composite materials will not need treating and some timber may already be treated.

'To determine if your exterior wood surface needs waterproofing, try a quick splash test,’ explains Dani Neumann of Thompson’s Weather Proofing.

‘Sprinkle water over sections of the wood. If the water absorbs within five seconds, the wood is porous and considered ready for a water-proofer to be applied. If the water beads up on top of the surface, then the wood is protected.’

Whether you are oiling, staining a deck or painting a deck, treat your wood to a high quality product; prices typically start from around $30 to treat a small deck. 

‘Quality waterproofing products should repel water and preserve your exterior wood surfaces for multiple years,’ explains Dani. ‘It is a good idea to perform the splash test every season to see if additional protection is needed.’

Is it cheaper to build your own deck?

It is undoubtedly cheaper to build your own deck, but doing so is a complicated project, and although there is no reason why you can’t try to tackle it yourself, a professional deck builder is likely to take half the time and will probably save you lots of stress and hassle in the process. From planning and problem solving to organizing the right tools and materials, there are many elements to consider.

When it comes to hiring a professional, think about your timescales well ahead of time. ‘We’re finding that contractors are booked out two to three months in advance, so timing also plays a large role in building a deck,’ explains Sam Toole at TimberTech.

Decks play host to the most memorable summer moments – whether you're lounging in the sun or enjoying an al fresco party. So, it's important that this space looks its best throughout the season – while ensuring it's protected from the elements in cooler months. And while there are a host of deck ideas to bring out the best in this garden staple, these tips will protect and elevate your decking to keep it in top condition for longer. 

Whether you're working with a large exterior or small deck ideas – their three secrets remain the same. Here's what you need to know when designing and maintaining a deck that will stand the test of time.  

3 deck tips to remember – according to experts

1. Don't forget sealant

'Many people consider the stain put on by the wood manufacturing plant to be enough, but it is certainly not. On top of that, you can do much more to maintain your deck and help it last (and look good for) longer,' explains Laurence Mann, the Managing Director & product expert at Wood Finishes. 

To ensure this, Laurence urges you not to forger sealant – the finishing step in the project. And even if you're unsure how to build a deck (and you hired someone else to complete the job), the expert suggests this step is one of the easiest.

'[Anyone] can step in and do the job of staining the deck. Find the product for you, then find rollers and brushes, and do the job right,' he adds. 'After applying the correct stain or sealant, you can officially say that you are doing whatever you can to care for your deck properly.'

And he is not alone in his suggestion. Adrian Martinez of Painting Contractors of San Bernardino adds that when you build or renovate a deck, you should invest in quality painting or staining solutions. 'These will protect your wooden deck and shall prolong its life for more years,' he says. 

2. Only use gentle cleansers

When looking for outdoor cleaning tips, it may feel natural to reach for a powerful pressure washer and bleach. However, using a pressure washer too often is one of the biggest decking design mistakes you can make as it is likely to stip your paint and damage your wood. Instead, it is better to pressure wash only once a year. 

Expert Andrew Porwol, the Owner of Garden Centre Shopping, advises against using harsh chemicals and bleach as they can 'strip your deck of its protective coating' and cause discoloration.

'If in doubt, check the label to make sure it's not listed as hazardous to children or pets,' he adds. 

3. Consider plant placement

Plants are the heart of all garden ideas, but they mustn't harm your decking in the process. 'Take care what you place on your deck,' Andrew warns. 'Plants that drain directly onto your deck will ultimately lead to damage and grilling on the deck is certainly a fire hazard.'

It is also good to ensure anything on the deck can easily be moved for cleaning – but plants should be at the top of the list. 'Remember if cleaning is a difficult process you'll soon get out of the habit which can lead to costly repairs,' the expert warns. So, when considering plants on your decking, it may be best to steer away from large plants that will make the cleaning process notoriously tricky. 

Painting a deck is a good option for giving an old space a fresh new look, or for adding color to a new one. It’s reasonably simple, not too labor-intensive and easy to tackle yourself. 

Understanding how to paint a deck effectively will not only ensure you get the best finish, but will also help with weatherproofing and long-term maintenance of your deck. 

Whilst a simple paint job after building a deck or to revamp an existing design may be sufficient, there’s no denying the difference careful preparation methods or a well chosen hue can make on the overall outcome.

So, before you pick up the paintbrush to create your deck ideas, take a look at our expert advice. As long as you take the time to do the necessary prep work and follow the best methods for paint application, the task in hand should be a breeze.

Whether you are painting to introduce new deck color ideas, or have just built it and prefer to finish yours with paint rather than staining a deck, these steps will allow you to tackle the task seamlessly.

You will need:

• Preparation equipment, such as an electric sander and paper
• A broom
• A primer
• Decking paint
• Paintbrushes, including angled brushes – this paintbrush set is highly rated on Amazon
• Roller or pads

1. Prepare to paint a deck

‘When painting a decking area, ensure the weather is forecast as dry and fully prepare the surfaces, to guarantee the best finish possible.’ explains Tobie Lewis, Senior Brand Manager at Valspar. 

Tobie advises removing all items first, such as tables, chairs, plant pots, etc. He also suggests removing any loose or flaking pieces with a paint stripper or by sanding the deck. 

Once you are satisfied with your sanding, clean your deck with a stiff bristled brush or broom. ‘If there are any holes or cracks, they can easily be repaired with a wood filler,' says Tobie. Finish by giving the whole deck a final clean with a dedicated product. 

‘Making sure your decking boards are dry prior to painting is essential,’ explains Caroline Thornborough, co-founder of Thorndown Paints. 

The boards ‘should have a moisture content of less than 20%,’ says Caroline. ‘If they are too wet the paint won’t fix and bond properly, leading to peeling and lifting,’ she confirms. Caroline also recommends investing in a protimeter to measure levels of humidity in the wood. ‘It can save you a lot of time and effort in the long run’, she advises.

2. Choose your paint

There are many different options and of course, color choices available when it comes to painting a deck.

If your deck is adjacent to the house, you could try matching it to create a sense of cohesion. Or perhaps you want to be inspired by the nature that encompasses it, opting for a green or auburn hue.

Tobie Lewis from Valspar says: ‘You can treat your decking as either the base for your outdoor space’s palette, or an opportunity to contrast with an existent theme.’ 

It’s also important to consider the type of paint you will use. Tobie advises using paint that has a UV resistant formula. This will give your garden deck a durable coating and make it much more resilient to weather potentially damaging conditions. 

If you have a specific hue in mind, but it’s not available in hard wearing external finish, color and paint expert Annie Sloan advises using a regular formula and following with a varnish or similar product to seal the deck, such as 'a hard-wearing, water-based polyacrylic varnish with built-in UV protection and water-resistance, making it ideal for outdoor use,' explains Annie.

3. Use a primer

In order to give your painted deck longevity, it’s worth applying primer to the raw wood. 

Caroline Thornborough from Thorndown Paints recommends using ‘a stain blocking primer if you’re painting a light color onto the decking’ as this will avoid any tannin stains or resin bleeds showing through. 

Start by applying with a brush between the deck boards. Work your way down the deck, priming every seam between boards. Be sure to cover all areas the roller cannot reach. 

Move on to using the roller or paint pad, covering the deck boards with primer and working backward. Let it dry thoroughly before you apply your paint.

7. Apply your paint

When applying your chosen color, again the best method will be to start with a brush. If your deck has slatted areas, balustrades and other details it may be best to start with a small angled paint brush.

‘Make sure you get the paint well into all of the nooks and crannies, in between the grooves on the decking board surface, and in between the boards so you get the sides too.’ explains Caroline Thornborough from Thorndown Paints.

Pay particular attention to areas you need to ‘cut-in’ such as where the exterior wall meets the wood of the deck. It’s much better to use a brush on these areas rather than using masking tape, which can be messy and problematic.

For the main part of the deck Tobie from Valspar recommends ‘choosing the application method that suits you – whether that’s a paint roller or a decking pad.’

Use smooth strokes and don’t press too hard on the roller or pad to avoid paint spray.

Ensure the first coat is totally dry before applying the next.

8. Finish and clean up

Allow your paint to dry thoroughly before you move furniture and plant pots back. Then you are free to enjoy your beautifully painted deck.

Usually, due to weathering, your deck will need painting every one to two years, so be sure to keep any leftover paint for future coats.

What is the best way to paint decking?

The best way to paint decking is to work your way along the length of two or three boards at a time, applying paint generously with your brush. You can speed things up by applying paint with a pad or roller, but you will have to go over the painted area with a brush anyway to cover inevitably missed areas and to cover cracks.

Small garden ideas have lots of advantages – the main one being they're wonderfully low-maintenance. 

Small gardens, city terraces, balconies and even unloved corners can all make enticing outdoor spaces with a little care and attention. Visual tricks, good lighting, interesting planting and comfortable seating will play to the strengths of the most awkward or compact of gardens. 

Whether you're looking for garden ideas to create an impressive balcony garden, want to introduce some garden furniture to your patio or love to be surrounded by greenery, you'll find lots of inspiration for your small outdoor space below.

Small garden ideas – 30 compact spaces big on style

Even the smallest outdoor space can become a beautifully designed garden. The key is to keep things simple and fuss-free. 

Limit landscaping materials, such as paving and decking, to no more than a couple of styles and select a pared-down color palette. Use the concept of the ‘slow reveal’, too. If you can’t see all your garden at once, it creates a sense of space as you’re not sure what lies around a corner. A secluded seating spot behind a large shrub, for example, gives the sense of a ‘journey’ through the garden. This works in even the smallest of spaces. 

Choose the right plant for the right place, so check how sunny or shady your garden is first. Then take advantage of vertical growing options to make more space for plants. A combination of structural evergreens and seasonal planting works well.

Below we share our favorite small garden ideas, as chosen by the experts.

1. Plan the layout to perfection

'Plan the location of seating and lounging areas before landscaping a small garden,' advises Rachel Crow, Homes & Gardens' Gardens Editor. 'Set these back so that they are not protruding on to walkways and terraces.

'Understand, too, the movement of the sun and shade in your small garden and position seating accordingly.'

2. Pick a one-color scheme

'Though it's wonderful to plant a wide range of flowers in a small garden, a one-color planting scheme can work wonders at making a tiny space feel sleekly designed, less chaotic and calmer,' says Lucy Searle, Editor in Chief of Homes & Gardens. 

'Just as we tend to keep small rooms inside our homes minimally furnished and to a limited color scheme if we want them to feel larger, we can apply this to our small garden ideas to enhance them.'

3. Use repetition to your advantage

Repetition is used in interior design to make rooms feel well-designed, balanced and cohesive, and this is a trick that can be used, just like the one-color scheme, to enhance small gardens.

'Why does repetition work in design?' asks Jennifer Ebert Homes & Gardens' Digital Editor. 'It's pleasing to the eye and therefore a wonderful way to create a smart-looking space that in no way jars. Repetition in small gardens can be created with flower colors, plant varieties or simply the choice of furniture.'

4. Devote attention to an outdoor living space

More than in a large garden, attention should be given to outdoor living room ideas. It may be that you have little room for both planting and seating, so seating, surrounded by space-savvy container planting or borders is a real must. Plus, since your small garden is going to be very visible from indoors, unlike a large garden, which can rely on long-reaching views, it really is vital to get this space just right.

'Choose simple, low-lying furniture that fits with the lines and style of the landscaping,' advises Rachel Crow. 'Dress with cushions that complement the surrounding flowers and greenery.'

5. Steal elements of cottage garden style

Cottage garden ideas were designed for small gardens, with cottage garden plants characterized by their bright exuberance and the juxtaposition of vegetables, fruit and flowers in borders.

'Flower bed ideas in cottage garden style will bring plenty of interest to small gardens,' says Melanie Griffiths, Editor of Period Living magazine, and one of Homes & Gardens' gardening experts. 'But you can steal other cottage garden tropes, such as arbors, to bring vertical interest. This is a great way to make small gardens pack a punch.'

6. Turn a small garden into a leisure zone

What is the most important element that you can design into your small garden? Unsurprisingly the answer is that it depends what you want to get from your garden and how you will use it. 

So, if pool ideas have seemed out of reach for your tiny space, have a rethink about how you could create the perfect pool area, or seating area or dining area (or all three) while still making your space feel green. Here, it is achieved by privacy hedges, which provide evergreen color, planting between pavers and container gardening ideas.

7. Use trellis to help you borrow a view

Trellis ideas are wonderful for small gardens because they allow you to put up a barrier without it feeling solid, looming or limited. Not only do they let you see a beautiful view beyond your small garden, they also can be used to disguise unsightly features, such as a compost heap, without making the garden feel smaller.

8. Divide a small garden into rooms

Dividing even a small garden into defined 'rooms' can make it feel larger. The key to doing this isn't with obviously visible barriers – different flooring materials from space to space or overhead treatments can create zones. You can create the latter with draped climbers or look to attractive pergola ideas that can create neat-looking shade and privacy solutions, too.

'Use living walls and decorative filigree screens to create shelter and enhance privacy,' says Homes & Gardens' Gardens Expert Rachel Crow.

1. Zone a small garden with decking

Decking does more than provide a space for sitting, drinking and dining — it can also help divide up a small garden into zones, helping the space feel curated, functional and possibly even a little bit bigger. 

In the small garden with decking above, the decking weaves a path through plant bedding, creating multiple terraces within a compact space. 

2. Add color with pretty paintwork

If you’re looking for an aesthetic shake up that doesn’t break the bank, grab yourself a pot of outdoor paint. Giving unloved woodwork a few coats is one of the most cost-effective ways to make a big impact within your small backyard ideas, turning that all-too-close back fence or shed into a feature backdrop. 

Lighter colors can make a pokey garden feel lighter and brighter, while going bold will make a serious statement. 

3. Make space for a rock garden

Rockeries aren’t the most contemporary of water feature ideas, but their scalability makes them among the easiest to squeeze into smaller spaces. 

A small rock garden idea – particularly if partially hidden among whimsical planting – can add a sense of wonder to the garden, as well as the relaxing ambient soundtrack of rippling water. 

4. Dedicate a flower bed to edibles

Keen cooks, get yourself a vegetable patch. You don’t need a rolling kitchen garden to grow your own food, just an area of bedding dedicated to edible delights. 

Great small vegetable garden ideas include chillies, runner beans and tomatoes because they all offer high yields in a small space. If you’re really short on square footage, potted herbs can be stacked up on outdoor shelving. 

And if you encounter problems with plant growth, it may be worth knowing how to add calcium to soil, as this simple method (often involving cracked eggs) can ensure your small garden ideas continue to grow healthy and strong. Calcium encourages strong cell walls that ensure the plant grows upright while making your plants less prone to diseases and pests. And this is particularly important in terms of small vegetable gardens and flower beds. 

5. No grass, no problem

Swapping turf for a patio doesn’t mean you need to ditch green for grey. Making your garden patio-first is a low maintenance life-saver, meaning you can focus on bringing a wider array of greenery into the space. 

Here, easily cared-for paving slabs are lifted with raised bedding and climbers weaving across a trellis. 

6. Keep it simple in a small garden

Don’t get too carried away when planning a small garden. A carefully chosen palette of materials and plants is often the most satisfying. 

However, this doesn’t mean you can’t be adventurous and experimental, just be mindful that trying to squeeze everything into a compact space will make it cluttered and decrease usability.

7. Plant smart in tiny spaces

The choice of planting is essential in smaller gardens. Use plants that won’t overcrowd the space. 

However, you also need to ensure you are not always looking at fencing or boundary walls as somewhere to plant. A really useful plant is the evergreen climber Trachelospermum Jasminoides, commonly known as star jasmine. It will offer year-round interest with an abundance of white flower from mid to late summer.

8. Pot up in a small garden 

Try large pots and planters in a compact garden. The bigger they are, the better their impact will be as this will give your plants room to thrive and you’ll have less watering to do. Big statement pots give you a real focal point and that sense of lush greenery en masse. Use matching materials for the containers, or at least materials and colours that complement each other.

Using plants in pots provides additional flexibility in smaller gardens. They come into their own in balcony gardens or if looking for courtyard garden ideas where there is no earth to plant beds in. 

You are able to position the pots around your dining terrace and relocate them easily whenever you need to, as well as vary the planting from season to season.

9. Consistency is key

Continuity of approach from the inside out will help make the garden feel part of your home. 

This can range from paint colors and materials to simply using plants whose flower color complements the interior. 

Be mindful that although some paving materials can be used both internally and externally, the stone outside will tend to weather over time.

10. Create interest with a water feature

Introduce focal points, which can include sculpture or water features, specimen trees and even an outdoor fireplace. 

Correct positioning is important. Some will be most successful as the design centrepiece while others are better tucked away within planting so that you aren’t fully aware of them until you enter the garden.

11. Light right 

Dan Bowyer from Fisher Tomlin & Bowyer explains how clever outdoor lighting ideas can transform small spaces: 'Lighting specific areas and focal points will create interest and provide a backdrop to the house all year round, even at times when you are not in the garden.'

'It is important to not light the whole space, areas of darkness are essential to the success of a garden lighting scheme,' he advises.

12. Create a shady corner

Think about a shaded spot as a multisensory experience of sight, sound and scent. 

Trees provide excellent coverage without blocking too much sun, and can be trimmed back to suit your needs.

The best trees for a small garden include bay trees (Laurus nobilis), Euonymus Japanese Maple (Acer Palmatum) and the Magnolia Christmas Berry (Photinia ‘Little Red Robin’).

13. Go underground

Transform an overlooked or exposed garden space. Sunken gardens make great retreats and are especially useful in urban plots where boundary fences may cast unwanted shade. 

Lowering a terrace by just 45cm makes it easier to create a greater sense of privacy with planting or awnings; if you want to go lower, ask a landscape architect to check the water table level and advise on drainage. In a sloping garden, carve out terraces and create an outdoor room on the lowest level.

14. Instil good housekeeping

It may not sound the most exciting, but getting on top of tasks such as the cleaning and tidying of pots, sheds and greenhouses is the perfect way to ensure that your small garden is clutter-free. 

Not only will this allow you to make the most of even the smallest of areas but a tidy space can also make a small garden look bigger.

If space allows, why not invest in a potting shed? Take a look at these shed ideas for more advice.

15. Use vertical space in a small garden

If floor space is at a premium, plant vertically instead. One of the most sought after looks this year – living walls are taking planting to a whole new level. 

To create these vertical gardens, plants are rooted into a structure which is then  attached to an interior, exterior or freestanding wall. Systems can range from  something as simple as plant pots hung on a vertical wall, or highly sophisticated  modular, hydroponic panels where all the water and nutrient requirements of the  plants are precision delivered and monitored electronically.

16. Opt for low-level furniture 

It is hugely important to get the scale just right in a compact area. Look out how your furniture pieces relate to each other and the surrounding space. 

A neat garden sofa and armless – or single arm – chairs are good options for a small garden or courtyard where space is limited. 

17. Build an office at the end of your small garden

What better way is there to start your working day than a relaxed walk to the end of your garden? You don't need to have a large garden to build one of these, as in the picture above, but if you're looking for long garden ideas then this could be a great addition to the bottom of your garden - as it will be a nice distance away from the main house. 

You can hire a builder to create a simple studio, much like the one shown above, for as little as $7,000-$10,000.

Building an extra room with a view of the garden is now a growing trend. With the current vogue for open-plan, multi-purpose family rooms that combine a mix of kitchen, dining and living spaces, garden rooms and orangeries fit the bill perfectly. 

18. Enjoy small-scale topiary

Often used on a grand and formal scale, try topiary forms in short-on-space areas to dramatic effect. 

In this tiny garden, topiary box has been cut into balls –in close proximity – to create a chess board feel.

19. Play with scale in a petite garden

Play with scale by using large plants in a small space, choosing green plants that create harmony and texture rather than a riot of color. Try acers and tree ferns as well as perennials and ornamental grasses. This garden was designed by Greencube.

20. Plant around pavers

Planting around and within the paving and decking in this narrow space, designed by Alice Ferguson, softens the hard landscaping. Strong vertical features, including climbers, draw the eye up.

21. Let your planting sing out

‘Every garden, no matter how small, can be turned into an asset,’ says John Wyer of Bowles & Wyer, who constructed the medal-winning Florence Nightingale Garden for Chelsea 2021. ‘In a smaller space, every millimetre counts. The garden needs to be practical in terms of how you want to use it, but also think about how it will look from adjacent windows as well as from within the garden itself.’ 

He also advises against trying to squeeze in too many ideas. Instead, take bold decisions using a ‘less is more’ approach. ‘Decide on a color scheme and stick to it and you’ll naturally have a more cohesive and impactful garden design,’ he says.

Here, small trees, a simple color palette and soft textured planting in The Florence Nightingale Garden, Chelsea 2021, designed by Bowles & Wyer take center stage.

22. Consider a view

Either exploit a borrowed view beyond the garden boundary or create a strong vista within the space,’ says Artisan Landscapes’ Alice Ferguson. ‘In courtyards, terraces and balconies, such as this one by Bowles & Wyer, the garden and house work more than ever as one entity. Create a view from the house to the garden that’s inviting and evokes curiosity. Layers of planting with height can transform a small space into a green haven,’ says Alice. 

How can I get the most out of my small garden?

In smaller or enclosed spaces, it’s important to draw the eye through simple, enticing design.

Many courtyard or urban gardens can be overlooked. Try obscuring any unwelcome views with considered planting that adds some height but not too much depth so as to avoid eating into a compact square footage. 

Long lasting plants such as Verbena Bonariensis add height and can be contained in small areas with flowers lasting from May through to the winter. Often a combination of hard landscaping, such as stone and brick, with bold, architectural planting, works best.

A terrace planted with a pair of large olive trees and a vibrant herb bed for example, will make more impact than a mass of overplanting. If your garden looks out onto a side return, consider painting the wall white to reflect the light and increase a sense of space. 

Another trick is to mix hard materials. Stone paving interspersed with narrow pebbled strips can look effective, as can juxtaposing angles, such as contrasting sleek decking with paved travertine.

Length will draw the eye, so try to site a standout plant, sculpture or small water feature towards the end of your space. Consider incorporating fixed seating, such as a banquette seating running along an external wall, to instantly increase the useable space, making sure the spot receives sunshine.

How do you make a small garden look nice?

Use planting to soften hard features. In smaller spaces, a sculpted, streamlined look can work best, such as stone paved terraces, or other materials, whether brick or paint, that that reference the property, combining inside with outside. But counteracting these hard materials with a mixture of clipped and more whimsical planting will soften the edges and add texture and interest. Make sure you know where the sun rises and sets in your garden so that you can plant accordingly. 

Balconies and roof gardens can benefit from simple planting, too. Prioritise space for sitting or dining and avoid overcrowding with too many varying pot shapes and sizes – aim instead for one or two statement pieces, such as a pair of bay trees or a sumptuous window box of favorite blooms, be they geraniums, hydrangeas, or overflowing campanulas. Finally, invest in some simple but effective lighting for small spaces to enhance appeal and increase the sense of space.

'Small gardens look great with just a few key elements that link the whole space together,' says ,' says Sean Butler, Cube 1994 Ltd. 'This may be through the use of repeating an accent color or a plant. Sometimes I choose a cushion fabric and then repeat its color through the planting. Clipped box can be used as an all year structural plant, while Zantedeschia thrive in city gardens in small amounts of shade and add a lush feel to the garden.'

Looking for pool deck ideas to inspire your backyard oasis? While it’s a major investment, the benefits of adding a pool with deck area to a property are undeniable.

Although deck ideas have been a staple of the boat building business for centuries, this design approach didn't enter the interiors world until the 60s. Where once pavers reined supreme, we are now seeing more and more people choose deck to use around the pool area. 

Over the years, decking's usage has expanded, and it has become the go-to material for a contemporary pool ideas. Materials have also come into their own. While early decks were made out of first-generation hardwoods, now it's hard-wearing composites and eco products made of recycled materials that are all the rage. We are also experimenting with stains and widths to give the wood a very contemporary feel.

Pool deck ideas

If you love to spend time outdoors, you're just a few pool deck ideas away from basking in the afternoon sun, or hosting friends and family for a summer pool party like no other.

1. Strike a softer note underfoot

Don’t rule out using pool deck ideas as an alternative to pavers when designing a pool area for your backyard. It’s another way to create a cool and sturdy feel underfoot, and can also help blend the pool area into the surrounding landscaping, or link it to a home with wood siding. 

Choose a wood such as cedar, teak or ipê that will stand up to the demanding conditions, and bear in mind that it will have maintenance requirements. 

‘Another option to consider is using some of the non-slip composites instead (made from polymer and wood fiber) which are sustainable and much more durable,’ says Fellow of the Society of Garden Designers and CEO of Bowles & Wyer John Wyer.  ‘If you’re absolutely sold on the wood look, you could use non-slip porcelain planks, which are available in a wide variety of wood-like finishes.’

2. Invest in hardwearing timber

At its best, a timber pool deck is a handsome, hard-wearing surface that complements most pool areas. It’s a natural material that provides a sympathetic background to plants, blending beautifully with the water from the pool. Timber lends itself to different styles of architecture and design. A pool deck can be designed in a smart, contemporary look, as easily as in a more traditional style.

But pool deck ideas don’t only look good: other advantages include being relatively lightweight in comparison to stone, quick and easy to install and forgiving. Timber can be cut to size to fit perfectly round awkward corners, and is easily extended at a later date.

3. Let you deck get better with age

When it comes to pool deck ideas, there is so much scope for imaginative designs using wood stains, available in a wide selection of colors. 

An informal look is created when decking is left natural and allowed to weather with time, turning a silvery-grey which, for a deck color idea that blends beautifully with plants and the natural landscape. A good compromise is to treat the decking with a wood oil that simply enhances the natural beauty of the wood – products made for treating timber boats are ideal.

4. Provide a tranquil spot for seating

Transform your pool area into an extension of your home by curating an outdoor living room on the deck. All it takes is a little planning, design know-how and expert advice.

‘Your pool deck area should always be thought of as an extension of your home, so it’s important to bring the comfort of indoors outside. One way to do this is to set up a shaded seating area by the pool area,' says OKA’s co-founder and creative director, Sue Jones.

To make the most of this ‘extra room’, we must think creatively about how to plan, design and decorate. An outdoor living area should offer all the comforts and style of an indoor living room but also be designed with the weather, privacy and surrounding features such as patios, planting and lawns in mind.

5. Think about modern materials

When it comes to modern garden design, wood pool deck is ideal for transforming smaller spaces, particularly roof terraces, balconies and courtyards. Offering a sleek link between your interior and exterior, real wood can create the sense of an extended living area, especially if the flooring materials are complementary.

With so much choice available when it comes to materials this is where things can get expensive, so it’s important to consider your budget so costs don’t spiral out of control.

You will want something that’s easy to maintain so bear in mind that smooth deck options are the best choice as water can pool in the grooves of ridged designs, but you will still need to oil them regularly to keep them protected against the elements and to retain their colour.

6. Use deck to divide a natural pool

A wooden boardwalk runs alongside this swimming pond. The natural pool has been split into two zones – one for swimming: and one for planting, which acts as a biological filter to keep the water clean and clear.

The ‘natural’ swimming pool is the style most rapidly gaining favor in country garden ideas, not only for its visual appeal, but also its eco-credentials. 

7. Mix materials around a pool 

When designing a pool deck area, it’s vital to consider how much hardscaping your backyard idea requires around the pool. Think about how much furniture will be located there? Should it incorporate distinct seating as well as a dining area? How much space do you want to allow for circulation?

‘A generous border of deck and concrete pavers or slabs around the pool allows for sun loungers and the ability to walk without worrying about getting to the edge,’ explains landscape designer Marcus Barnett.

8. Build a raised deck 

If you're looking for small deck ideas, a custom design is a great choice, because it'll be built to maximize the space around your pool area for dining and socializing.

'A custom deck is a uniquely designed structure that meets your specific needs and preferences,' says Sam Toole CMO of TimberTech, a composite decking company. 'Working with a contractor for a custom-built deck ensures your deck is built to the right specifications for lasting performance.'

Here, the wood deck adds a sense of warmth to the harder patio ideas, and helps delineate the dining area from the nearby pool area. 

9. Use deck to create pathways

It’s not a surprise that pool deck is now used so widely. It can be widened into platforms or narrowed into paths to link different areas, binding together a garden’s design. 

In small or narrow pool areas, deck may even be used to replace lawn and paving, flowing in an unbroken series of paths, terraces and seating. With forward planning, lighting cables and water pipes can be concealed beneath, opening up options for deck lighting ideas that rival interior rooms. 

10. Take you deck up a level

An outdoor room that is an immediate extension of the home suits a scheme in which all furnishings – deck, pool house, seating, sun loungers, container garden ideas – are color coordinated.

Deck is a godsend for split-level areas – built up into a platform or stepped downwards to cope with a sloping site. It draws the eye around the pool area, making it appear both wider and longer.

What decking is best around a pool?

Real wood is considered to be the best deck to use around a pool. ‘I see real wood as a big trend in decking,’ says garden designer Catherine Clancy. Always choose timber certified as coming from renewable plantations with a forest certification scheme (FSC). ‘There are so many natural wood products out there at the moment like Thermowood, a heat-treated softwood that fades to a lovely soft grey over time,’ she says. Real wood is a sustainable choice, too. If high-quality timber is used and maintained, a deck can last up to 30 years.

‘A pool deck is only going to last as long as its sub-frame so this is the key element and should be built to last,’ says landscape designer Rae Wilkinson. ‘There are settings to consider sustainably produced composite decking board, such as around a pool or in deep shade, but it’s worth bearing in mind that they all contain plastic, which poses a longer term environmental problem in terms of disposal.’

Most pool decks are made from pressure-treated softwoods, as it is a less costly option, but more durable hardwoods, such as ipê, balau and iroko, as well as oak, are a great choice if budget allows. Nicknamed ‘African teak’, iroko has a luxe appeal. Balau is another tropical wood that’s strong and water-resistant. Ipê stands out for its durability and density. You could also think about using reclaimed wood for something original and environmentally responsible. Whatever you end up choosing, you can’t go wrong with real wood for a timeless, beautiful and long-lasting result.

Deck color ideas might be on your list of decisions to make if you are transforming your backyard. A deck, after all, can be the design's focal point, so to exploit its potential to the maximum, it’s worth considering which color is the best option for you.

Or, perhaps you are improving your existing deck and looking for deck ideas? Its original shade may have deteriorated over time and a deck color revamp may be due. Simply staining or painting your deck a new color might be all you need to transform your outdoor space. 

'You can match a deck to a warm, rich hard and soft landscaping palette, or tone a silvered deck with a planting scheme,’ says Catherine MacDonald, Principal Landscape designer at Landform Consultants. ‘If the decking is adjacent to the house, tonally matching the interior floor color with the decking color can help create a sense of space and bring the outside in.’

Deck color ideas

To get you started, we’ve put together the best deck color ideas to make yours a handsome part of your outdoor landscape.

1. Take a cue from indoors

'Homeowners are starting to think about the outdoor living space as an extension of their home – bringing trends from the indoors, like multi-width boards and lighter flooring, to the outdoor space,' says Sam Toole CMO at The AZEK Company, a flooring company that produces decking. 

Especially if your deck connects directly to your living space, consider continuing the color of your indoor flooring out onto your deck. 

2. Let the natural beauty shine through

If your budget for your deck costs allows for a high quality, real-wood decking like cedar, there may be no need to paint or stain it at all. Instead, choose a clear, oil-based wood sealer that will make your decking waterproof without loosing the beauty of the natural wood tone.

This California yard by landscape designer Sarita Jaccard plays up the home's desert-midcentury vibe, and proves that sometimes, natural wood tones makes the best color choice. To settle on the amber colored decking above, Jaccard looked for a material that would offset the deep-gray gravel in the yard.

3. Go for a deep espresso

A dark wood stain straddles the line between traditional and contemporary styles, making it a good choice for those who love a transitional decorating scheme, or are looking to give an older outdoor area an updated feel. Darker wood tones, like the espresso-colored decking above, also feel more sophisticated than paler-toned options. 

4. Encourage weathered decking

While staining and sealing your deck can increase its longevity, you don't technically have to seal your deck to keep it good shape. If you prefer your deck to take on a weathered look or a silvery hue (think wooden Adirondack chairs that get left out year-round or an old dock in the water), then you can simply leave the wood untreated and let nature take it's course. 

This type of weathered, rough hewn decking is a lovely match for cottage garden ideas or coastal properties. 

5. Go for a modern look

If you live in a contemporary home, be sure to choose a deck color idea that suit the style of the architecture, as well as more modern deck railing ideas. Generally, that means choosing a deck color with gray undertones, like the deck above, or one that's either very pale, or very dark. In between colors like oaks, red wood tones, or medium-browns won't complement a modern home as well. 

6. Choose an understated deck color as contrast

If you want to put the focus on the most colorful elements of a garden – which might be an array of flowers or a permanent feature like this blue-painted wall, or both – opt for a subtle gray color for the deck. 

Make sure you use exterior masonry paint for a garden wall like this one, and opt for blooms on the blue and violet parts of the color wheel if you pick a similar shade in order to create a harmonious effect.

7. Keep deck shades soft

This courtyard garden in San Francisco by Arterra Landscape Architects features a deck for relaxing on that extends into a path leading down the narrow space. ‘We used cedar and let it naturally gray out for low maintenance,’ says partner Gretchen Whittier.

Some decking woods can take years to gray, so if you want the same gentle colorway to complement a planting scheme, painting the deck is a speedy shortcut to the same look.

8. Create a continuous effect

If your deck is surrounded by fencing or deck planting, choose a color you can use to paint both it and the fence for an area that really does say ‘outdoor room’. 

Select a shade that will reflect the light and recede from the eye for painting what are the walls and the floor of an exterior room to keep it bright and open. They’ll also reflect candlelight for a deck that’s atmospheric after dusk.

This trick is particularly useful at enhancing space – perfect if you are looking for small garden decking ideas.

9. Take your cue from nature

In this backyard, the deck has been designed around the beautiful trees that bring shade at the water’s edge, and the dark deck color echoes the shade of the bark. It’s a strategy that harmonizes the natural and the built parts of the garden so they look as if they’re meant to be together.

You’ll want to choose a deck paint that promises to be slip resistant to renovate or transform a deck in any case, but it’s a particularly important attribute for a deck beside a pool.

10. Team with pavers

Decking may be just one of the hard surfaces underfoot within a garden scheme, and choosing the right deck color can ensure each works happily alongside the other. In this London garden by Kate Eyre Garden Design the curvilinear design which makes the long thin garden feel wider features porcelain pavers and pebbled areas, too.

‘I love the neutral tones in a garden as it feels more natural whilst still looking chic,’ says Kate. ‘Personally in our design team, we love the contrast of the porcelain against the decking in terms of textures and color.’

11. Match outdoors with in

For a deck beyond sliding or bi-fold doors that can open the interior right up to the backyard whenever the weather is good enough, try a deck paint that matches the color of interior flooring. It will make the two different surfaces appear as one, blurring the division between indoors and out for space-stretching effect.

Laying interior floor boards and exterior deck boards in the same orientation if you’re putting them in new is also a tactic worth adopting to further blur the distinction between the two areas.

12. Make planting pop with a dark deck colors

Just like inside your home, a dark backdrop can make the accent shades you choose for a garden scheme pop. Inside, it’s walls you’d paint to achieve this effect, but outside, paint the deck in a slate, charcoal, or deep color tone to set off lounger upholstery, floor cushions, or contemporary furniture in brilliant shades.

Combined with an outdoor kitchen in gray, this dark statement deck has fabulous modern credentials.

13. Contrast the deck color with the house

Consider deck paint that will contrast with the exterior of your home – particularly for a small deck. It will help define the exterior seating area. Black and white is a classic combination, but you could get a similar look with any dark and light pairing. Follow the lead of this home with furniture that continues the home’s color and containers that repeat that of the deck boards to pull the look together. 

14. Tone with pebbled areas

If your deck boards or squares are laid next to pebbles or gravel, opt for deck paint color in a tonal shade. The different textures of the materials will provide plenty of interest underfoot, so you needn’t be concerned that the effect will be bland. 

In this garden deck boards, deck squares and pebbles in bleached tones are a soft contrast to the vibrant green of foliage plants grown amongst them.

15. Harmonize decking with furniture colors

You could take a similar tack as above, but painting the deck to co-ordinate its color with garden furniture or deck railing ideas instead. Here, the palette is neutral for a calming ambience with pale wood furniture plus a light finish for the deck. 

Woven dining chairs provide textural contrast to the smoother timber of the dining set and deck, so the monochromatic scheme isn’t flat. Follow this design’s lead by finishing a dining or seating area with cushions in linen and a faux fur throw to boost the tactility of the space.

16. Repeat a door color

Here’s another tactic for linking the deck with the house for coherent style. Paint the deck in a color that repeats that of exterior door frames. In this backyard it’s the rich shade of the double doors that lead from the interior to the garden, but with a fabulous range of different deck paint colors on offer, it’s also easy to match door or window frames in blues, greens, grays and more.

17. Make a country-style design look modern

If you want to give a rustic backyard a modern edge, paint your deck black. The shade will look striking alongside softer hues that you might more typically find in a country plot such as creams, greens and blues. A color like this one needs to be kept perfectly crisp so bank on repainting your deck more frequently than you might with other paint shades to maintain it.

18. Take a contemporary approach

If you want to create a contemporary scheme, gray could prove the best color for a deck. ‘If the house windows or bi-fold doors are anthracite gray using gray for the decking helps to tie the whole scheme together and unify garden and house,’ says Simon Orchard of Simon Orchard Garden Design, who created this sophisticated garden.

‘In this garden, the decking color is echoed in the seats, firepit and metal frame around the decorative laser-cut screens,’ he explains. ‘The simplicity of this pared-down color palette is very effective in creating a calming space and the dark gray creates a fantastic foil for the more colourful planting.’

What is the best color for a deck?

The best color for a deck is one that fits your garden’s style – be that contemporary or more classic – works with the rest of its hardscaping, as well as the planting, and is sympathetic to the house, too. But that actually gives you a wide choice, which can feel a bit overwhelming. 

If that’s the case check out our ‘How do I pick a deck color?’ section, below, for ways to approach the dilemma.

How do I pick a deck color?

You can pick a deck color in a variety of ways. ‘We’re taking more of our cues from the natural world, so choosing a color that reflects the style and tones in your garden is a great starting point,’ says Jimmy Englezos, Ronseal Decking Expert and Senior Product Manager.

‘Consider a shade that matches border or other plants – or co-ordinates with garden furniture, fences or sheds.

‘Bold shades are everywhere this year, and choosing rich or darker shades will provide a great showcase for green foliage and complement flowers and shrubs, providing an outdoor oasis feel.

‘If your space is smaller, opt for a lighter or even a white color scheme, used across decking, sheds, furniture, walls and even planters to make the most of the room and create a fresh, stand-out, summer look.’

Should house and deck be the same color?

A house and deck can be the same color, but they don’t have to be. ‘If you're after a matching look, the exterior of your house should ideally have some timber elements in order for the decking to look like a cohesive part of your home,’ says Matthew Brown, Sadolin Technical Consultant. ‘These features could be as large as timber cladding or as subtle as a few exposed beams, a wooden porch or a wooden balcony. The tone of wood of these outdoor elements will help guide your choice of paint or stain when treating your decking.’

But a deck can be a different color to the house. ‘Let the elements surrounding the decking influence the choice of color you make,’ suggests Matthew. ‘For example, a mostly green area might inspire you to choose a natural palette of greens and muted browns.’

Or, if the deck connects directly with the house, other elements could be the starting point. ‘Why not choose the same color used for the front door or the window frames or, alternatively, opt for a color that’s similar to the shade of your house exterior,’ says Matthew.

Coastal garden design embraces natural textures, weathered finishes, a loose and relaxed style of planting and spots to pause and enjoy the ocean vistas stretching out before you.

Although an ocean view can come with challenging conditions, it also presents an opportunity to grow plants that thrive in the salty, windy, exposed situation, and create a design quite unlike any other.

The beach is a place of escapism and feeling a reconnection with nature, so include some of these key elements in your backyard ideas to create an outdoor space that perfectly complements its surroundings. 

Coastal garden ideas 

The most important aspect of a coastal garden design is to embrace the ocean and the conditions it creates as a source of inspiration. Make the most of the natural, rugged beauty of the landscape and work with it.

‘If you have a view of the sea from the house, the star of the show will be the water. The task for the garden is to then keep fairly quiet, to reduce the visual noise in the foreground and allow the eye to be drawn to the water and absorb the view,’ advises garden designer Helen Elks-Smith.

1. Plant with a palette inspired by the surroundings

When it comes to the planting color palette for flower bed ideas in a coastal garden, take inspiration from the ocean side surroundings. ‘I like to look at the skies, the sand and the materials and take color influence from there,’ explains garden designer Jo Thompson.

Include broad swathes of coastal plants that are tolerant of the salty, windy and dry conditions that prevail, adding color, texture and movement to your garden landscape. Use of colors that reflect the ocean theme will help the garden to better fit with its surroundings.

‘Silvers, olive greens, purples, whites, blues, and yellows tend to be the colors that you find in native coastal plants, but splashes of vibrant, hot colors can be introduced, too, with the likes of kniphofias,’ adds garden designer Sue Townsend.

2. Use local materials

When planning the hard landscaping in a coastal garden, ‘where possible use regional stone to increase the connection to the landscape – local materials will come from the same color palette of the soil and sit quietly in it. If budget doesn’t allow, then choose an alternative  material but from the same color palette,’ suggests Helen Elks-Smith.

Add boulders and other landscaping ideas with rocks to define areas or act as impromptu seating and use local stone for garden path ideas. 

Like any other garden, the hard landscaping should complement the architecture of the property and link in with the surrounding landscape. 'If you are by a rugged, rocky coastline then echo the stone that you see around you; or if you are near shingle beach, source pebbles or gravel from a local quarry,’ adds Sue Townsend. 

3. Protect from the elements 

A coastal garden can be subject to strong, salt laden winds so if you have the space and are able to plant a windbreak of fast growing shrubs and trees that can withstand these elements it will help provide some shelter. 

‘If space is limited, a hardy hedge can help filter and slow down the effects of the wind, or another option is to create mounds or sunken areas in the garden,’ advises Sue Townsend.

The degree of protection needed will depend on whether the garden is directly on the coast or slightly further back. ‘Protecting the whole garden is likely to compromise the views, which is best avoided. Blocking wind on a coastal garden is likely to cause air turbulence, which can create new problems. Slowing the wind and focusing protection for key areas is likely to be more successful and provide more predictable results. Taller plants are very effective at slowing wind,' says Helen Elks-Smith.

4. Use fencing for screening

If you're looking for garden fence ideas, a slatted windbreak fence can provide some protection from the wind, suggests Sue Townsend.

 ‘Hit-and-miss' type fencing – where the boards are alternately fixed on the front and back of the rails – whether vertical or horizontal forms, will probably withstand the wind better than a solid fence and cause less turbulence. Bespoke fencing that plays with ideas from the coastal landscape are worth exploring, too,’ advises Helen Elks-smith.

5. Build raised beds

Raised garden beds are typical of a coastal style and one solution to cope with the poor soil of many coastal gardens and are also a solution when designing a sloping garden, which many coastal plots are. 

When it comes to materials to use, ‘look to reclaimed timbers from local reclamation yards, or local stone from quarries. Work with materials that you know work in the area, and take an inventory of what appears locally,’ advises garden designer Jo Thompson. 

Consider also recycled agricultural feeding troughs or old, reclaimed boat hulls to enhance the nautical theme.

6. Plant into gravel

To recreate the natural feel of plants growing haphazardly from the sand and shingle as you would find on the coast, create a gravel garden by planting into locally sourced gravel or shingle with a selection of drought tolerant planting. Choose both ornamental grasses to give height, and ground cover choices to scramble over the stones. The gravel will also act as a mulch to conserve moisture in the soil.

'I import compost and mulch to improve the soil below the gravel or shingle then move the gravel back – always working with what is there,' says Jo Thompson.

‘Plant into a weed free soil and then lay a 40mm depth of gravel or shingle. If you keep to this depth, the weeds will find it hard to germinate – any that do appear over time tend to have been airborne and are easy to pull out. Planting in this way gives you more ease and flexibility to lift and move plants over time, and to add bulbs, rather than wrestling with cutting holes and planting into geotexitle membranes underneath the gravel,’ advises garden designer Sue Townsend.

7. Design with decking

‘Wooden decking works well in a sunny spot in the garden and has a wonderful coastal vibe when it is left to weather so it silvers up,’ explains Sue Thompson. 

Deck ideas are perfect for a sloping garden and can be set at different levels to enjoy different views. 

'On a practical basis, make sure any metal fixtures and fittings will not corrode with the salt laden winds – marine grade stainless steel light fittings, balustrades and screws would work best,’ Sue adds.

'Use hardwood, make sure it isn’t slippery, and also that it will last,' says Jo Thompson.

8. Comb the beaches

A coastal garden is peppered with beachcomber finds, along with foraged shells, stones, lengths of driftwood and salvaged artefacts. 

To these add old wooden crates and weathered pots as container gardening ideas, filled with plants suited to the conditions, such as succulents including aeonium and sempervivum that work perfectly in a seaside context and perform well in salty winds. 

9. Plan a seating area to enjoy the views

Creating somewhere to sit in the garden to enjoy the ocean view is paramount in coastal garden design. 

'Once you have found the perfect spot with great views out to the landscape and protected from the winds, the next consideration is how to ensure that this same space blends out to the landscape,' explains Helen Elks-Smith.  

Planting to lift the eye to the landscape and soften the view of the seating space and the furniture from the house is key.

10. Include naturalistic curves

Reflect the natural lines of the surrounding landscape in your coastal garden design so that the garden flows into its surroundings. Just as coastal paths snake along the coastline, design garden paths and borders so that they have a carefree, loose feel, gently undulating.

What are coastal gardens?

Coastal gardens are those that are positioned beside, or near, the ocean on the coastline, so will be exposed to the winds, salty air and often dry, sloping ground conditions that are associated with the location.

The choice in planting therefore needs to take account of these conditions to ensure that plants chosen for the location can cope with the conditions. The design of the coastal garden can also help protect plants and provide better growing conditions.

'For many coastal gardens, neighbouring properties and trees will slow the prevailing winds and reduce the salt spray and give wider plant choices,' explains Helen Elks-Smith. 

How do you make a seaside garden?

You can make a seaside garden by incorporating any of the design elements mentioned above. In fact, you do not need to live by the sea to create a coastal garden design, and even inland and urban gardeners can still recreate the feel of an ocean spot by planting with coastal plants that are well suited to many conditions, and including features, materials and textures associated with the coast.

Small garden decking ideas are a fabulous way to enhance your outdoor space. Your deck can be used to zone an area that’s purely for outdoor dining, or to create a low-maintenance space if you don’t want a lawn. 

You can also use decking as a path area through your backyard. The beauty of most deck ideas is that you can add to them – so you can start small, and then create a larger area that could include balustrades and even a small fence to provide a more sheltered space to enjoy more months of the year. 

If your yard slopes, you can have a raised deck with steps down to the lower part and use the area underneath the decking for storage – decking is one of the most versatile garden structures around, whatever sized space you have. 

Small garden decking ideas

These small backyard ideas use decking to create a useful, easy to maintain and attractive space.

1. Choose Mid Century style 

On a small deck, scale is key to maximizing function, which is important to prioritize in your small backyard landscaping ideas. Avoid the deck design mistake of overcrowding your space (or just as unfortunate, letting usable space go to waste) by choosing streamlined midcentury furniture. It strikes the right balance of optimizing seating options, which also leaving room to move about. 

'Deck lighting ideas are really important for small decks in particular,' says Homes & Gardens' Editor in Chief Lucy Searle. 'Ensuring there are different ways to light the deck, without flooding it with light, will make it feel larger but also a cozy place to gather at night. I'd suggest wall lights with directional focus, so you can choose to light different areas, depending on what you are doing; low lighting in planting around the deck and into the yard beyond, to make the space feel larger, and a light, whether artificial or candlelit, centrally to encourage a social feel.'

2. Try a tête-à-tête

The term tête-à-tête literally translates to 'an intimate conversation between two people,' which is where the eponymous, cozy sofa style gets its name. Use a tête-à-tête on a small deck to maximize seating and foster conversation. Plus, this version from Serena & Lily comes with a built-in table for holding drinks, books, or sun screen.

Which leads to another practical tip for extra-small spaces: ensure your furniture pulls its weight by choosing items that serve more than one purpose.

3. Minimize visual clutter

Slim-profile furnishings make sense for a small deck for a few reasons. For one, they're physically less bulky, so you can fit a full-size conversation set on a small deck without monopolizing what little space you have. Plus, the intricate construction, as above, makes the chairs semi-transparent, which helps minimize visual clutter, too. 

Last but not least, they pack a ton of style into a petite package. You don't need much else in the way of decor or accessories to make a statement. 

Think practically with deck color ideas, too. Small decks benefit from pale colors that will enhance the feeling of space. 

4. Choose all-weather furniture

If you have a small deck area, there's a good chance you won't have room for a storage shed or deck box to stash cushions or décor when it rains, so be sure to choose furnishings that will stand up to the elements.

'Look for furniture made with polywood due to its weather-resistant durability which can withstand rain, snow, and wind in most geographic regions,' says Jenny Reimold, interior stylist and HomeGoods style expert. 'Additionally, to avoid visible staining and extra cleaning, look for darker fabrics, though lighter fabrics made from synthetic fibers can be easily cleaned with soap and water or a light pressure wash.'

5. Take in a view

Decks are most often attached directly to the house, with an access point leading straight from inside to out. But, that doesn't mean your deck and house always needs to be adjacent, especially if a different site lets you capture a view, enjoy surrounding gardens, or offers a better spot for complementary deck planting ideas.

If your outdoor space has a view, build your deck in a spot that captures as much of it as you can. At the Los Angeles home above, landscape designer Sarita Jaccard built a walkway to a small deck that surrounds an in-ground Jacuzzi tub, where the homeowner can retire to take in the sunsets at the end of the day.

'The view at this property is just so special, we wanted to create an area where one could retreat and appreciate it,' Jaccard says. 'The walkway is meant to feel purposeful and direct, leading the visitors eye (and therefore self) to a viewpoint where they can appreciate the mountains and the beauty of this location.'

6. Enclose your decking

Make a feature of your decking area by enclosing it within the footprint of your home, an all encompassing look if you will, so your outside space becomes an extension of your home and links due to the fence around it. 

There are plenty of deck railing ideas to choose from. Here, the wide plank of the top bar that runs around the decking can also be used as a shelf – for drinks and nibbles when entertaining, or even for pots and planters. 

7. Opt for slimline furniture

When space is tight, as with interiors, choosing furniture that has a low profile and slim legs will help to create the illusion of space. 

This set is a great example of this works in small garden decking ideas – you can see underneath the sofa and coffee table, and the pale wood and light taupe cushions keep the overall look ‘light’ visually. 

8. Opt for decking throughout

If you love being out in your garden but are not keen on the gardening aspect, then consider having the whole area decked, perfect for adding cohesion to courtyard gardens. 

A fully decked space will also be super low-maintenance, something worth considering alongside how much a deck costs, and you can use planters against the back fence to create interest and privacy.

9. Zone your space

You could create a design feature when you plan your small garden layout by only decking certain areas of the space. 

We love how this bistro seating area is edged with beautiful textured stone. The colors of the furniture also tie in visually with the decking color and stone edging to give a cohesive look.

Consider deck edging ideas carefully, too. Small decks benefit from a delineated border to make them feel purposeful.

10. Mark your boundary

Instead of having a fence at the end of your garden you could use your small garden decking ideas to create the boundary, especially if you have raised decking. 

Removing tall visual boundaries will also help to make a small garden look bigger. Here, there’s a nice natural line between the end of the decking and the wild field beyond.

11. Use decking as a design feature

If your garden is narrow or an awkward shape and you are looking for long garden ideas, why not add decking along the length of your house, as you can see here, in a wraparound effect. It will be easy to maintain and provides a hard standing area for your table and benches. 

12. Make small garden decking ideas work in a country garden

Ann-Marie Powell, founder of Ann-Marie Powell Gardens, created this beautiful country garden decked scheme.

‘With a split level garden, decking was a perfect choice. We chose to use green oak as it would age with grace and character, pressure washing to keep the areas slip proof and clean, and adding to the charm by exposing the end grain and natural qualities in the wood. 

'Laid using stainless steel lost head screws so the fixings became invisible and didn’t rot the wood, 15 years later I actually prefer the deck to when it was first laid.'

The clever use of deck planting ideas in this scheme also maximises the available planting space in a small garden.

13. Go for flexible small garden decking ideas

'Decking is a very flexible and useful material in that it allows you to create useful level areas, say around a tree, without the need for foundations as you would with paving, which can destroy a tree’s roots,’ says Debbie Roberts, co-founder of Acres Wild – so why not incorporate one or two of these best trees for a small garden into your decking ideas.

The fact that decking doesn't need foundations makes it a useful flooring option for balcony gardens too, and it can also be made into decking steps, like in the tropical-inspired space above.

14. Use decking in any weather

The beauty of decking is that you can enjoy it all year round. No squelching through mud to celebrate an occasion if it has rained the night before – you can simply use your decking to set up a lovely firepit and relax wrapped in faux throws whilst enjoying marshmallows with your family.

15. Opt for small garden decking ideas with levels

Small garden decking ideas can be so much more than a simple level for you to walk on. You can create raised areas, like these, that can be used for seating and as somewhere to place drinks and nibbles if you are entertaining. 

They also add interest to the corner of your garden. We love how this decking area is edged with flowers and a painted wall, and utilises soft, washed deck color ideas that complement the vivid blue of the wall.

How do I build a small deck area? 

You’ve been inspired by our small garden decking ideas and set your heart on creating a stylish decking area, but how do you go about it? 

To start with, you need to make sure your ground is flat, soft and level. In terms of power tools, all you need is a basic tool kit and some simple woodworking skills. 

You need to decide on your area – are you covering the whole lawn, or do you want to keep the decking to a minimum and nearer to the house?

One top tip is to measure or at least place your garden furniture where you would like the decking to go. This way you can see how big the decking area needs to be to fully accommodate it. It’s also worth checking that you don’t need planning permission and let your neighbours know too. 

Once you have everything in place and you have your measurements, you need to create your frame and attach the inner joists. The spacing of these will depend on your decking design – for example, do you want horizontal, diagonal, chevron or a particular pattern? 

Once this is done and all secure, you can then add your deck boards by starting in one corner and working out. It is important to allow a gap of 3mm in between each one. Keep working until you have finished the entire area. 

How can I make my small deck look good? 

To make a small deck look good, first give the decking time to weather naturally, and to allow for a certain amount of natural shrinkage and expansion. 

Then, you need to decide on how you want your small garden decking ideas to look – this also depends on whether the boards are soft or hardwood. 

Keeping it clean and free from rotting leaves and algae is a must, because both of these can leave you with a slippery deck that can become dangerous. 

Spring is a great time to give your decking some love and attention. Power washers are ideal for blasting off debris, and when it’s dry give it a coat of deck oil, paint or a stain. 

The more you look after your decking, the longer it will last. 

Adding one of these bird bath ideas to your garden is essential for the wellbeing of our feathered friends. Bathing loosens the dirt in the birds' feathers and makes it easier for them to preen – a process that enables them to maintain the health of their feathers, keep warm and to distribute the oil that keeps their feathers waterproof.

Whether you opt for a majestic stone structure or a more minimalist hanging design, bird bath ideas are a quick and simple way to incorporate more wildlife garden ideas into your plot.

‘Bird baths are one of my favorite recommendations for gardeners seeking to expand the variety and concentration of wildlife in their gardens,’ says Marc Parnell, author of The Birding Pro's Field Guides. 'In fact, some home bird baths attract over 50 species each year.'

Bird bath ideas to add to your garden

Adding a bird bath is a great way to attract birds into your garden. With a vast array of bird bath ideas from which to choose, it will be easy to find the perfect style to complement your backyard ideas.

'Bird baths provide garden birds with fresh, clean water all year round. During the warmer months birds can struggle to find sources of water for drinking and bathing, so adding a bird bath to your garden will help them thrive,' explains Will Haxby, ornamental sales director at Haddonstone. 'Likewise, during the fall and winter, birds still need water to survive, especially when ponds and streams are frozen over.'

Avoid common bird bath mistakes by keeping yours clean and regularly filled with fresh drinking and bathing water. Figuring out where to place a bird bath and the best flowers to plant around a bird bath is also essential to its success and longevity.

As well as providing water during the colder months, it is also important that you ensure you are feeding birds in winter as food is often scarce during this period.

1. Consider stone bird baths for a traditional and permanent feature

With a classic aesthetic, stone bird bath ideas are sure to create an elegant addition to your garden ideas, especially if you are channelling a more traditional look such as Georgian garden design or Victorian garden design.

Crafted from cast stone, this Baluster design from Haddonstone is frost-proof, meaning it can stay in your garden all year round and will age beautifully to blend into your garden scheme.

When considering stone bird bath ideas, it is worth noting that they are one of the heaviest options. While this is great if you live in an area that is prone to winds, the weight can make your bird bath more difficult to move and clean. If you are likely to need to move your bird bath then perhaps consider ceramic, which has a similar look to stone but carries a fraction of the weight.

2. Opt for a minimalist design

In recent years, there has been an increase in more minimalist bird bath ideas. Rather than your bird bath having to be a statement in its own right, these slimline designs, usually on a thin metal stand can easily be integrated into your borders or lawn. Metal and glass are popular materials for minimalist bird bath ideas and are fairly light-weight, making them easy to move and clean when necessary.

3. Consider the depth of your bird bath

When researching bird bath ideas, it is important to consider its depth. 'To allow different species to bathe safely, we advise between 1 and 4 inches deep,' says Claire Smith, director of product and partnerships from CJ Wildlife. 'It’s also important that the bird bath has sloping sides or rough surfaces and perches for the birds to grip onto and not slip.'

Look for a bird bath with a gradated basin so that it incorporates both shallower and deeper areas, this will help different species to bathe. 'If selecting a deeper bird bath, make sure you add a few stones to the bottom to ensure smaller birds have somewhere to perch and can also get out easily,' continues Claire. Adding a few stones to the shallower parts of your bird bath will also provide bees and butterflies with a spot to land and drink.

4. Add a ground level bird bath 

As well as considering bird bath ideas that are on stands, also think about adding a ground level bird bath to your garden.

'Ground level bird baths are great for ground feeding birds such as robins, blackbirds & thrushes, who prefer staying close to the ground. However, with the bird bath being on the ground comes the added risk of predators being able to threaten birds whilst they drink or clean themselves,' says Claire Smith. 'Pop your bird bath near an opening or corner where they have the best chance of flying away if they need to.'

5. Consider a statue with an integrated bird bath

Bird bath ideas aren't restricted to the classic saucer on a plinth design. In fact, there are lots of decorative designs that can suit a wide range of gardens. If you are looking for bird bath ideas that will add a focal point to your backyard, consider a statue that features an integrated bird bath.

6. Bird bath ideas with a fountain

Garden fountain ideas make for a beautiful addition to your garden decor, offering a soothing soundtrack to your space. However, they are also great for your feathered-friends. 'A central bubbling feature, if present, helps to prevent insects (and their larvae) from settling and congregating around the bath,' says Marc. They will also help to attract birds to your bird bath and can help to prevent the water from freezing in cooler temperatures.

7. Add a bird bath to your decking

Incorporating a bird bath into your patio ideas or deck ideas is a great way to make your garden more wildlife-friendly. There are plenty of different ways to add bird bath ideas onto your decking, porch or patio. If you are considering adding a freestanding bird bath, opt for a lightweight material such as metal or glass, as heavier stone designs could cause your decking to bend.

Alternatively, consider bird bath ideas that attach to your patio or porch balustrade or garden fence ideas. Featuring a clamp instead of a post, they can simply be attached onto the top of the fence, it is a great space-saving way of adding a bird bath to your garden.

8. Add a hanging bird bath to a small garden

Hanging bird baths are a great choice for small garden ideas as they don't occupy any of the limited floor space. Adding hanging bird bath ideas are also a good choice for the birds. Since the bird bath is nestled in a tree, the birds are covered while they bathe, making them less vulnerable to a surprise attack.

If you don't have any suitable trees in your garden, consider hanging a bird bath from a hanging basket bracket. Position in a shady spot and you'll soon have a flock of feathered friends coming to take advantage of their new spa facilities.

One thing to consider with hanging bird baths, as well as other bird bath ideas, is their placement. ‘Bird baths are best situated at least 25 feet away from any nearby windows. This helps to prevent bird-window strikes, which account for hundreds of millions of avian deaths at residential properties each year in the United States,' says Marc.

9. Consider a heated bird bath in winter

It is vital to provide a source of water for birds in every season. In summer, droughts can mean that water is scarce, while in winter, freezing temperatures can make water equally hard to come by. Opting for a bird bath with an integrated heater is a great way to ensure that it doesn't freeze. Alternatively, you can add a separate electronic de-icer to your bird bath ideas. However, both of these options will require electricity and this in turn will restrict the position of your bird bath.

Other ways to prevent your bird bath from freezing include adding a fountain or placing a tennis ball or apple in your bird bath – all of these methods make it more difficult for the ice to form a skin on the surface of the water.

During cold weather, be sure to check your bird bath regularly. If you find it is frozen over, simply defrost by pouring cool water over the surface. Avoid pouring hot water over the bird bath as the sudden change in temperature can cause the bird bath to crack. Also avoid the use of any chemical deicers as these can prove toxic to birds.

10. Keeping your bird bath clean

Regardless of which bird bath ideas you decide to add to your garden, keeping it clean is essential. 'Bird baths must be cleaned at least twice each week. Each basin must be completely emptied, scrubbed clean, soaked in a 1:10 bleach-to-water solution, and thoroughly rinsed before being refilled,' says Marc Parnell. 'If these tasks are not diligently completed, the bath can become a breeding ground for various avian diseases – defeating the original purpose of supporting local bird life.'

Should a bird bath be in the sun or shade?

Your bird bath should be in the shade as it will keep water fresher and cooler. It will also reduce the amount of evaporation and as such will mean that you don't have to keep refilling your bird bath multiple times each day.

'Bird baths should be located on a flat, even surface. They can be positioned on a patio, terrace, lawn or within a border, depending on your personal taste and available space. If you locate your bird bath under a tree you will need to remove any fallen leaves and branches from the water as these can decay and cause the water to become dirty,' recommends Will Haxby, ornamental sales director at Haddonstone.

Why are birds not coming to my bird bath?

There are many reasons why birds might not be coming to your bird bath.

Firstly consider the position of your bird bath. Bathing is a vulnerable time for birds as they are focused on preening rather than predators. Therefore, they will be more likely to visit a bird bath where they feel safe. Position your bird bath in a shady spot, close to trees and prickly bushes as these will offer a safe space for the birds to survey the scene before bathing.

It is also important to keep your bird bath clean and full, birds won't visit a dirty bird bath. You can also try adding a fountain to your bird bath ideas as this will make your bird bath more attractive to visiting birds who will be drawn to the sound and sight of the moving water.

Deck edging ideas are often overlooked at design stage, but they are just as important as all the other details of a deck, giving it a finished, smart look. Without them, even the most well-designed decking projects can feel a little unfinished, especially if they butt against a wall or fence with no defining feature to sign off with at the edges. 

Frame your decking with the right edging, though, and it will create a seamless and professional-looking finish, as well as adding a personal touch that's uniquely yours, so that your deck won't look like every other one on the block.

There are lots of brilliant deck edging ideas to finish off your deck ideas. Try adding a patterned border, lighting panels, low-growing plants in beds to soften edges or built in seating. We've rounded up 10 of our favorite deck edging looks below.

Deck edging ideas

It's worth considering deck edging ideas at design stage, since they can be matched to both deck railing ideas and even deck color ideas. That said, deck edging needn't be in timber – edging can be in contrasting materials, too. Below, we explore the options.

1. Mix up deck materials to add more interest

Using a carefully thought out mix of quality materials to create a decked area will transform a small space. This courtyard garden features a timber deck flanked with beds of herbaceous plants and ornamental grasses to soften the edges. 

The dark timber deck has been charred (rather than stained) using a Japanese technique and contrasts beautifully with the hazy planting spilling over the edges. There are steps down to a sunken garden with a tiled mosaic patio that means the deck is raised to show it off better.

This backyard is a great example of how to mix contemporary materials and eclectic planting to create a deck that's full of contrast and character.

2. Try a modern patterned border

If you are looking for pool landscaping ideas with decking, defined deck edging can look attractive. Both composite and timber deck edging can be a great choice for a pool, offering a laid-back yet smart look. It's the perfect opportunity to add a distinctive border too with a design detail that will transform your deck into something special.

When it comes to poolside it's best to choose deck edging that doesn't become slippery when wet. This distinctive geometric border has integrated non-slip inserts that add a pretty decorative edging to your deck making it practical as well as pretty.

'When cutting timber to use as an edging board, always make sure you have a sharp saw blade to give a nice clean cut,' says Ross Crouch of Gripsure. 'If you can, miter any joints so you have no exposed end grain. Any timber that's in permanent ground contact should either have an appropriate level of pressure treatment or a protective coating applied.' 

Instead of horizontal patterned deck edging, why not consider a vertical border to add an alternative decorative detail to your deck that's both eye catching and unusual?

3. Soften hard deck edges with planting

There is a big trend for curves right now and you can pick up on this by combining decking edging design and deck planting ideas. This style looks more organic than the straight lines of square or rectangular decks, fitting more naturally into an unstructured garden shape. Even better if your curved deck is bordered by swathes of soft planting to blur the edges.

'Shade loving Japanese forest grass and a mixture of evergreen ferns are used in this garden to soften the hard edges of the decking, walls and the areas under the built-in seat,' explains garden designer Catherine Clancy. 

'Use mostly evergreen plants, with different shades of green to provide a soft texture around your decking. Grasses provide an extra softness to any planting, and there are plenty of shade loving low-growing grasses to choose from that work well for deck edging ideas like Japanese forest grass Hakonechloa macra 'Aureola', Carex 'Ice Dance' and tall moor grass (sesleria autumnalis).' 

4. Insert light panels for an ambient setting

If you have a roof terrace with a deck think about adding some glass roof panel lights as a stylish edging idea. They are built to walk on while flooding fantastic levels of natural daylight into the interiors below. This reverses at night if the room below is lit – creating secondary backyard lighting ideas.

Creating a border can turn your deck edging ideas into more of an eye-catching and individual feature. Roof panel lights add a neat edge that introduces a designer feel and enhances your enjoyment of your deck space at night so it's a good investment. As well as being practical they also help to throw diffused light through your planting for a magical touch in the evening.

5. Edge the deck with neat borders

You could play safe and opt for a uniform area of decking. Or you could try adding planting beds into the deck’s structure for a more interesting approach that looks super smart while at the same time maxes up your growing space. After all, you can never have too many plants.

Add a geometric element by using clipped box to create a framework for your border areas then introduce structure and texture with a mix of planting to fill in the detail. A bed of smooth stones is one of our favorite deck edging ideas, adding an interesting element as it works as a backdrop to enhance a display of sculptural foliage such as these pointy leaves. 

This combination of deck edging ideas creates the perfect spot for your yoga mat.

6. Use pavers to border a deck area

'All materials in gardens (especially small ones) benefit from definition and this is often easiest with an edging detail,' says garden designer Kate Gould. 'This could be brick, stone or even metal. Whatever you do, make it strong and bold, and be sure that the finish looks crisp and neat as it's such a key highlighting feature.' 

In this wonderfully original garden design by Kate a section of ipe decking is inserted into an area of limestone paving, and edged by planters and seating. The wooden decking area becomes the central attraction, in the same way as a rug works in an interior design scheme.

For small garden decking ideas, all spaces are important, and deck edging ideas can be used as a focal point and even as a way of making the area look bigger. 'Here the bench is cantilevered,' explains Kate, 'so the floor continues underneath making the space feel larger and allowing lighting to be incorporated.' 

7. Turn decking into a dream design feature

'When designing this wraparound sky garden for a penthouse project, we decided to zone separate areas, mixing decking and tiles together,' explains Linda Levene, co-founder and design director of LLI Design. 

'For the decking we chose an ipe hardwood, in two tones, one lighter and the other edge piece, darker. We wanted to create something more interesting than just linear planks for the decked area and achieved this by mixing the different tones of decking to form a grid pattern, which added visual interest and visually connected to the architecture of the building, creating a seamless aesthetic.'

Soft but purposeful outdoor lighting adds another dimension to the deck at night, helping to extend the view from the interior. 'This was especially important when creating the lighting scheme for the deck as the penthouse had glass on three sides,' says Linda. 'We gently washed the low-growing planting with warm white, spike lights in the planters, and added drama by uplighting specimen plants and trees emphasising their form, structure and texture.'

8. Edge raised decking to add the standout factor

If you want to create a deck walkway in your backyard it needs to be enhanced by its surroundings as a simple drop down to the grass or planting beds will look unfinished. Stage your raised deck in the right way and it will become the focal point of your garden.

Use a combination of low level planting beds, reflective water pools and sections of smooth stones to create a contemporary look that will really help your deck stand out. You can also use a variety of white, gray and black stones to get a contrasting effect for your deck.

These deck edging ideas are further enhanced if you introduce a contrasting shade of wood to run down each side of the decking walkway. 

9. Integrate a pergola into your decking 

Pergolas are one of the best deck edging ideas to upgrade your space into more of a destination than just somewhere you walk through. It's a great idea for poolside decks too.

You can buy easy-assembly decking kits that include integral pergolas to transform your deck into a stylish living area. They come complete will everything you need to create a beautifully crafted decking area with integral pergola and require no foundations or advance preparation.

Sounds like a great idea to take your deck edging ideas up a level.

10. Build in matching seating for a co-ordinated look

A design that combines seating and plants is one of our favorite deck edging ideas that's perfect for the backyard. Using the same wood for the deck, seating and planters creates a coordinated look that's both practical and stylish. Be sure to sand the wood to avoid splinters and treat it to make sure it lasts.

Building in matching seating to your deck looks spectacular. Not only can you create seating easily using your decking boards, it's also an affordable option and you can customize it to include storage space under your seats for cushions and other garden equipment. This is a great idea for small gardens.

Then all you need to do is paint the backdrop in a stunning shade and add some co-ordinating accessories.

How do you edge a deck?

In addition to using deck edging ideas like integral seating, low level planting and lighting panels, you can also create a border around the edge of the deck with fascia boards to give an attractive finish. Corner trims are also available.

Durable edge and corner trims let you cap-off edges, corners and exposed areas of decks or steps, enabling you to seal your new decking area for a smart finish. 

Another effective method of finishing a deck surface is to install a trim board around the perimeter. Also known as picture framing or racetrack decking, this is the technique where perimeter boards are laid parallel to the edge of the deck frame, in areas where the ends of the decking boards are exposed. 

Perimeter boards cover the butt ends of your deck, which gives a smarter appearance and serves as a contrasting edge trim. Do it well and adding a border to the perimeter of a deck is a great way to up the quality a notch.

What can I put around the bottom of my deck?

The trim known as skirting offers most decking projects a perfect edging solution, allowing you to cover the side of the boards and the exposed subframe, resulting in a well-made deck. For raised projects, it's even possible to stack skirting trims on top of one another to get to the necessary height.

Although your deck is the real star of the show, no deck design is complete without skirting and there are lots of deck edging ideas to choose from. Proper deck skirting allows for ventilation to guard against mold and rot. The deck skirt disguises the area beneath an elevated deck and can also provide cover if you intend to use the space below for storage.

Deck skirting can be made of lattice, wood, stone, or several types of composite materials to add a lovely design element.

Landscaping around trees has seen a real progression in recent years.  Gone are the days of simply edging your tree with bricks or covering the exposed soil with gravel. Instead, there are plenty of colorful and architectural ideas to add character to your backyard ideas, rather than just dressing with stones, slate or bark.

If you're wondering where to start, these 10 ideas for landscaping around trees are sure to spark inspiration.

Landscaping around trees

Whether you're looking to add landscaping interest around large trees – such as some of the best trees for privacy and screening – or simply want to add color to trees grown in pots, there are so many options. These are our favorite ideas for landscaping around trees.

1. Underplant trees with bulbs to create seasonal interest

Landscaping around trees can add interest even when the tree is bare. In fact, early bulbs will grow before the tree is in full leaf so you don't need to worry about battling with shade. Of course, underplanting a tree is not straightforward as there's a concern for damaging the tree's roots. 

Before you start, be sure to throughly mulch the base of the tree with organic matter, this will give you space to plant the bulbs without damaging the roots. 

'To have a succession of different bulbs from January to May, plant a variety, from the early blooming snowdrops, winter aconites and crocuses, through snowflakes, fritillaries and narcissi, to tulips, alliums, and camassias.' advises garden expert Leigh Clapp 'Muscari or grape hyacinths naturalize well under trees and shrubs. Mix with primroses, daffodils, pansies and early tulips for a pretty combination'.

Once planted, your bulbs will continue to grow, multiply and reappear each year, making them a low-maintenance way to add floral landscaping around trees. Plus, as the bulbs disappear back underground once they've finished blooming, you can still mulch, feed and water your trees as needed.  

2. Create a relaxing spot by adding a bench

Adding a circular bench around a large tree not only invites a shady spot to rest in but also provides a point of visual interest to the whole garden scheme. A fairly straightforward idea for landscaping around trees, there are many companies that craft beautiful benches for trees, from wooden designs that add classic country charm to ornate cast-iron designs that have an antique-feel and add traditional elegance to your space.

You can even get personalized designs that make for a beautiful gift and are sure to stay in the family for generations.

3. Use the shade provided by trees for an al fresco dining space

If you're looking for garden shade ideas that are useful as well as attractive, utilize the shade a tree provides by creating an al fresco dining space underneath. 

'Your outdoor space should be a place for you, your family and your friends to enjoy. With this in mind, treat your garden like you would your home and fill your space with accessories that reflect your personality. Think about your concept, furniture and accessories to create a space that feels like a room,' Scarlett Blakey, interior design expert at Ophelia Blake.

4. Frame trees with hedging for an natural yet ordered look

Create a sense of order in your garden by landscaping around trees with a low hedge border. Neatly manicured, it frames the space and harks back to formal parterre designs. 

Framing your trees with box or privet hedging will add visual interest and serve to contain the bed into which your trees are growing – particularly if you've used a loose mulch like bark chippings or slate to suppress weeds. 

This look works particularly well if used over a larger area – rather than around one specific tree – and to disguise the seam between two different ground materials, such as lawn and plant border or path and plant border. 

5. Contain planting by adding a raised border

Constructing a border around your tree will mean that you can raise the level of the soil around the trunk. Doing this not only provides valuable nutrition to the tree but also allows you to underplant without damaging the roots of the tree. What's more, it creates an organized aesthetic that works well with a manicured lawn or alongside a gravelled drive.

6. Build a patio around the tree

Patio areas have been increasingly popular additions to our gardens, offering a low-maintenance space for al fresco dining, entertaining and relaxing. If you are looking for patio ideas, considering adding or extending a patio, then it is good to know that you can incorporate large trees into your design. 

However, there are a few things to bear in mind. Your trees roots will run under the area you are planning on paving. If your tree is old and its roots system well established, then the roots are unlikely to cause you any serious issues. However, it the tree is younger, be aware that they may cause disturbance to the patio in the future as the roots grow. Consider raising the level of the patio by lining with a few inches of extra sand to help buffer the roots. 

Pavers are also a better choice when building a patio over tree roots as they are more flexible than alternatives like poured concrete. This way if there is any movement, the pavers can easily be relaid, something that is more difficult with concrete patios.

7. Incorporate the tree into your decking

Deck ideas are great for landscaping around trees; in the long-term they are also the lowest maintenance, too. Adding a decked area to your garden opens it up to a whole host of design opportunities. A softer alternative to paving, it harmonizes with trees and planting to create the perfect space for relaxing. 

By surrounding the base of the tree, you don't have to worry about weeds, while the added height of the deck also means that the tree's roots are very unlikely to have an impact on the stability of the deck as they grow. 

8. Consider landscaping around espaliered trees

Espaliered trees are trained to grow against a wall and as such have a large, rectangular border around the base. Since the tree is flat to the wall, the area beneath it is less shaded than under a conventional tree.

Opt for plants with shallow roots for landscaping around trees as they will not disturb the root system of the tree. Lavender, zinnias, pansies and marigolds are all great choices for underplanting trees.

9. Create a peaceful oasis by positioning a swimming pool under your tree

Embrace the serenity of the natural world and create your own spa at home by using tall trees to frame an infinity pool. Landscaping around trees this way provides pool landscaping ideas that are private and shaded, and also offers a relaxing backdrop to your leisurely swim.

10. Welcome nature by encouraging a meadow to grow under your trees

Cutting grass under trees is a challenge, often requiring you switch off the mower and cut it by hand. However, letting the grass grow longer at the base of your trees eradicates this struggle while also giving back to nature. Why not go a step further and make wildflower seeds bombs to scatter underneath? Pick a seed mix that comprises poppies, sweet alyssum, cosmos and evening primroses, it will quickly transform your backyard into one packed with wildlife garden ideas.

What is the best thing to put around the base of a tree?

Shade loving plants or bulbs are the best thing to put around the base of a tree for an easy and instant fix. Hostas, dicentra and primoses are all shade loving plants that will add a burst of greenery below your tree, plus will all produce stunning flowers. Alternatively, ferns are an evergreen choice that will create a rustic, woodland feel to your garden. Interplant with erythronium to add colorful blooms come summer.

'When planting beneath trees, remove any weeds and scratch the surface of the soil with a garden fork, as the soil can be very compacted, taking care not to damage any roots,' advises PL garden expert Leigh Clapp, 'select shade-loving plants with compact root systems so they don’t compete with the tree for nutrients and pay attention to watering and fertilising as plants establish.'

What to put around trees to prevent weeds?

You can put everything from a gravel or bark mulch to building a decking around a tree to prevent weeds.

While weed suppressant fabrics are good for preventing weeds, they make it difficult to feed and fertilize your tree, so it is not a good idea if your tree is young and still needs lots of support to grow. Alternative options for young trees include top dressing with bark chippings which will decay over time and provide the tree with nourishment. Another option is to allow a wildflowers meadow to grow as when the wildflowers meadow is established, it will naturally suppress the weeds.

For larger trees, you can afford to cover their root system a little more as they won't be as dependent on fertilizer and organic mulch (though this is still good for them from time to time). Consider building a decking or patio around the base of the tree to create a relaxing space that will also be weed-free.

Outdoor rugs are something of a garden must-have, as we seek to turn our gardens into living spaces that feel just as layered as those indoors. 

But buying an outdoor rug is fraught with difficulties – how do you know if it will stand up to the weather; can it be left outside in the rain, let alone year-round?

As with all decorative garden ideas, outdoor rugs do come with a few complications – but we can iron them out for you here.

1. Focus on functionality

Knowing how to choose a rug that will withstand outdoor conditions is important. So, if you're looking to fill a sunny spot, choose materials that are UV-resistant to ensure the rug design is less likely to fade over time. Consider how it will complement any patio ideas and existing furniture you have, ensuring that it anchors the space in the desired way.

2. Choose an ideal shape and size

Think about where you're placing the rug and make sure you have the correct measurements for the space. What visual impact would you like to make, and how will it work with your furniture?

Compared to indoor rugs, outdoor versions are relatively inexpensive, so you can afford to go quite large to maximize the comfort. There are no rules on the shape or the number of rugs to use – layering different designs is a great way to include solid color mixed with pattern, an assortment of shapes or contrasting textures.

3. Keeping your outdoor rug dirt-free

Some rugs made from natural materials are machine-washable, making them easy to clean and more enjoyable to sit on. A synthetic design can easily be washed using a garden hose with a pressure attachment. 

If it smells for any reason, a small amount of soap or rug cleaner can be added but be sure to avoid any grassy areas if using detergent. It's worth checking the washing instructions on the manufacturer's website before purchasing. 

4. The option to leave it outside all year round

A rug made from synthetic materials has been designed to withstand various weather conditions, thanks to it's moisture-resistant fibers, easy-clean surface and quick-drying ability. 

Those made from natural materials will likely be resistant but may be more prone to water absorption, leading to mould or mildew if exposed to the elements over time. You can extend the life of your rug by storing it away during the winter months when it's not in use.

5. Using outdoor rugs on decking 

Color and pattern can be a great addition to an otherwise brown decking – making deck ideas instantly more colorful. However during wetter weather it's worth moving your rug inside or hanging it up to allow for rapid drying. If the rug has absorbed lots of water it could be damaging to the decking or become slippery when left for long periods of time.

There’s nothing nicer than sitting out on your decking on a hot summer’s day, right? Designing your own deck is one of those satisfying jobs that can be achieved with a little know how. But, get the design wrong and deck might lack the good looks and functionality you envisaged – and safety can even be compromised.

So, we have spoken to the experts to find out what not to do. 

See: Deck ideas – creative decking ideas for your garden, patio or terrace

1. Getting the deck size wrong

Decking too much of your backyard can rob it of its natural appeal – vast expanses of wood can be difficult to furnish and may even contravene planning rules. However, get the deck size too small and it will be impractical. 

See: Small garden decking ideas – design ideas to inspire you with yours

In an average-sized backyard, the deck should ideally not fill more than 25% of the space for balance – or around 300 to 400 sq feet. How small is too small? Ask yourself: what is a good size deck for entertaining? That way, you'll know that if guests can fit around it, then it will certainly be large enough for you when it's just you in the backyard.

As a general rule, a deck should measure no less than 145 square feet.

2. Using softwood decking

Health and safety is paramount when it comes to choosing the right type of decking, as explained by Tom Howard from Tom Howard Gardens:  

‘I strongly recommend to never use softwood decking as it just doesn’t last. The grooved decking is advertised as being non-slip, however the grooves collect water and then turn green and slippery making it far more slippery than an actual smooth decking. 

'In recent years, composite decking has become popular and is actually really rather good. If you’re going for composite or even hardwood, it’s a false economy to not build a very strong subframe. And even better is to build it using composite joists so that it never rots and will never need to be replaced. A softwood subframe would only typically last about eight years.’

3. Not installing a handrail if you have steps

Having no handrail is a decking design mistake that's actually rather dangerous – and which contravenes planning rules, too. 

However, there's a subtlety here: interrupting the flow of a decking handrail with a post is also a design error to avoid. It’s often done as a design aesthetic, but a handrail on steps should be free-flowing for those walking up and down. 

Not only do railings or a balustrade create a safe space, especially if you have children, it also helps to create a sense of the deck being enclosed and as a result, a place slightly hidden away and more secluded. 

See: Deck railing ideas – materials and styles for every garden

4. Placing decking boards too close together

Wood expands and contracts depending on the weather and temperature – you sometimes notice this with traditional wooden doors, one day they're suddenly harder to open.

This is why when you look at decking, you’ll see a gap of between 5 and 8mm. This is intentional and allows that movement. If the boards are fitted without this gap the timber will buckle and twist, it also inhibits air circulation to the underside of the decking which can cause the wood to deteriorate more quickly.

5. Forgetting to seal decking

It can be tempting to get straight out on your decking with friends and family so you can make the most of it, however, the weather can change quickly depending on where you are and with that comes the peril. As soon as your decking is laid, the wood will start to change, so it’s essential that you seal it as soon as possible for both protection and longevity.

See: Deck color ideas – how to choose the color to paint your deck

6. Not investing in quality fixtures and fittings

Always make sure that the fixtures and fittings you choose are fit for purpose. Not all are treated for outside use in all weathers and if they’re not, they will rust, weaken and start to decay the wood. It’s not just wet weather that can affect them either – hot weather can too. The best finishes are stainless steel and specifically for decking, some galvanized screws can leave black streaks in the wood. 

7. Making your deck a haven for rats

Rats love decking (the horror!) and the space underneath your decking makes them a lovely warm and cozy home that’s sheltered and ideal for them to breed in. Your food scraps fall between the gaps in the planks... anyway, you get the picture! 

Make sure there are no gaps that they can get through by using chicken wire, wood or mesh along the entire edge. You do need to allow an access point so you can place vermin traps if needs be, use a section of deck board that can easily be lifted. 

8. Attaching ledger boards badly

If you want to attach a free-standing deck to a structure then you need a ledger. It’s the part that is attached to the studs of the main structure and mistakes are made when it’s attached to a superficial material instead. Usually made from pressure treated lumber, it’s a vital part of the deck’s strength as it creates the frame and supports the joists. 

9. Inheriting a deck and not checking it before use

If you’ve recently moved and your backyard has decking, do get it checked out properly. We tend to look at things on the surface but forget that it’s on a structure that could be rotting underneath. Even if you had your decking installed within the last five years, it still needs checking to make sure it’s safe. There could be damp boards, rusty fittings and corrosion around the deck fasteners. 

See: Deck planting ideas – using beds, planters and living walls

10. Not calling in professional help

It looks easy right – simply laying a few planks on top of a frame in a few hours one weekend? 

See: How much does a deck cost?

There’s more to deck laying than meets the eye and unless you do have previous knowledge or are a whizz with wood then it can be worth asking a decking professional for advice or paying for them to do it. Some decking jobs can suddenly become tricky when it comes to issues like cantilever designs, attaching ledgers and unlevel ground. 

Traditionally, now is the time of year that house sales – and, importantly, the features house buyers want to see when they're viewing – are uppermost in our minds. So, if you're thinking of selling your home, whether now or in the next year, it's really worth knowing what will a) get you a quicker, surer sale and b) get you the best price. 

Interestingly, six of the top 15 features that make buyers more likely to buy a property are external, with a lawned garden, security system, paved patio, outdoor lights, bi-fold doors and decking, all working to increase the number of potential buyers for a property.

Inside, it’s functional additions like a downstairs toilet, built-in storage, a separate shower cubicle and underfloor heating that would attract the most buyers. Interestingly, having separate living spaces rather than just one open plan space for the whole family also appeared to be popular with prospective buyers, which could be a sign that more of us are starting to appreciate a separate living room to a kitchen diner, to kick back and relax in at night.

See more: Home staging tips – to help you sell your home quickly

15 features house buyers want most

The research is taken from a wider study into renovation and interior design trends.

1. A downstairs toilet

This, believe it or not, is high on the list of what home buyers want. The obvious place for it is under the stairs but if you are extending a house to sell in the future, tucking it in between the extension and existing house within an additional utility room or laundry room will gain you extra house-selling points.

See: Clever utility room ideas for a well-planned space

2. Built-in storage

Storage solutions are really having a moment, so it's perhaps no surprise that one of the most popular additions buyers are after is built in storage. As well as clearing floor space, shelving and wardrobe units help to zone a home, ideal for open-plan spaces as buyers can easily visible how the area can be used. Plus, these can act as an extra quirky feature, especially if built into nooks or alcoves.

• See more: Small living room storage ideas – clear clutter in a compact space

3. Double glazing

One feature house buyers want that won't necessarily be obvious when looking around your home are double glazed windows. The hassle and expensive of changing single glazing can put prospective viewers off, so adding these insulating and noise-reducing windows in can make all the difference when selling a home.

4. Separate shower cubicles

As the self-care movement goes from strength to strength, more often than not buyers are looking for separate showers and baths to divide out function and rest. If you're short on space, opt for a separate shower rather than one over a bath which can be seen as old fashioned and act as a negative for buyers.

5. A lawned garden

A simple, neat lawned garden is maybe surprising to be one of the features house buyers want. Although it may not have been on their wishlist, keeping the garden this way acts as a clean canvas for buyers to imagine how they might landscape or use the space. Additionally, buyers don't have to worry about the expensive of the upkeep or removal of busy planting.

6. Separate living spaces

Open plan homes have been popular for years but now the shine is starting to fade. Perhaps due to us all spending more time at home this year, buyers are looking for houses with separate living spaces to provide peace and privacy. Even a downstairs box room can make all the difference as this is prime real estate for a compact home office.

7. A security system

Having a security system up and running in a home is proving to be one of those features house buyers want this year. Whether it's a smart doorbell, security cameras or an alarm, these are worth adding in. Now that these security elements are so commonplace, you can install a smart system without much cost or hassle but with added bonus points from potential buyers.

8. A paved patio

Buyers just want it all. As well as that grassy lawn, they're also looking for paved patio areas for al fresco dining and home workouts. Even a bijou space can appeal to buyers, giving them an area that they can extend if they so wish.

9. Outdoor lighting

Another element that might not be on every wishlist, but certainly achieves bonus points, is the addition of outdoor lighting. Many of us have spent more time in our outdoor spaces that even before recently, so buyers love when these areas have an extra special something. Whether solar powered or mains, attached to the building or situated in the garden, outdoor lighting is a useful addition when selling.

10. Underfloor heating

Especially desired in colder climates, underfloor heating is a great selling feature for your home. There's nothing like stepping out of bed or the bath during cooler months and feeling warm floors beneath your feet, so being able to offer this to buyers is always a winner.

11. Marble worksurfaces

Perhaps in part due to how Instagrammable it is, marble work surfaces in the kitchen are something which buyers are on the lookout for. From a practical point of view, it's not the best surfaces for working on as it stains and scratches easily, so instead opt for a marble quartz or composite, which will still give you brownie points from buyers.

12. A kitchen island

Since the kitchen is most definitely the heart of the home, it can often be the room which sways a buyer by tugging at the heartstrings. One of the most desired features house buyers want in this space is an island. If you have an older island already in place, freshen it up with a lick of paint to really make a focal point of this must-have feature.

See more: Kitchen ideas – decor and decorating ideas for open-plan, galley, U-shaped and L-shaped kitchens

13. Bi-fold doors

New homeowners love to add bi-folding doors leading to their garden as soon as possible, so having these already installed may just tip the balance when selling. Crittal is far and away the most popular style here, but as long as you stay minimal or gently industrial,  buyers are sure to love it.

14. Garden decking

Yet another garden-centred feature that buyers have their eyes peeled for; decking is seeing a resurgence in popularity with those looking for a new home. This is especially worth adding to your outdoor space if your home is likely to attract young professional buyers who simply don't want the upkeep of a garden, but is liked across the board as it can help with zoning outdoor space with families, too.

See: Deck ideas – the essential guide to decking your garden or patio

15. White window frames

One feature house buyers want which is super simple to achieve but incredibly effective, is by having white window frames. Both indoors or out, a fresh coat of clean, white paint gives a mini facelift, enhances the appearance of light and makes the space feel bigger. Buyers won't even know they're looking for these until they're missing, so make sure you don't miss out.

With their vibrant arrangements and playful use of colour and form – not to mention their handy letterbox delivery service – Bloom & Wild is one of the most popular online florists in the UK. This week, they released their Christmas trend forecast, sharing floral themes, decorating tricks and DIY hacks for making your home look – and feel – lovely, just in time for the festive season.

See more: Christmas trends – the top looks for this festive season

1. Merry & Bright

Head back to the '80s and host Christmas with a twist by opting for maximalist flowers, colours and prints. ‘Bright flowers and coloured foliage will take centre stage as people become more playful than ever with their decorations’, says Harriet, floral stylist at Bloom & Wild. 

‘Think bouquets packed with hot pinks and bold blues, mixed with glittering ferns or painted eucalyptus, and Christmas trees decked out in glittering baubles for a nostalgic kitsch effect’.

The limited-edition collection with the master of colourful prints, Matthew Williamson, perfectly encapsulates this trend. There’s three bouquets to choose from – made up of seasonal stems in cerise pink, vivid orange and rich blue – all wrapped in boxes featuring the designer’s exclusive artwork.

2. Back to nature

The Nordic trend is simple but by no means minimal. Bring nature indoors with plenty of raw wood and foliage – perfect for those after a natural festive look. Think dried flowers, seeds and twigs, juicy winter berries and lush green foliage like eucalyptus, fir and pine – all in soft ivory whites and earthy greens.

3. Christmas traditions

We all love a bit of festive tradition, so it’s no surprise that classical colours like red, green and gold, mixed in with some Nutcracker magic, continues to trend year on year. ‘Seasonal flowers and foliage – like pussy willow, amaryllis and poinsettias – make for lovely centrepieces’, says Harriet.

See: The most beautiful Christmas table ideas

4. Micro trees

With mini baubles, lights and pop-up pots, Bloom & Wild’s tiny, replantable trees trend on Instagram every year. The idea was born in 2016, when ‘tree makers’ at the brands family run farm in the Netherlands planted cuttings from ‘mother trees’ into pots of soil. Before yours leaves the farm, a teeny little cutting will be taken from it and planted into the soil for 2021’s trees. How sweet is that?

5. Abundant foliage

Filling the home with winter foliage is the fastest way to make it look, feel and smell like Christmas. This year, all Bloom & Wild foliage comes from Ireland, where soil conditions mean it thrives – pesticide free – in fields as opposed to greenhouses, hugely reducing its carbon footprint.

The brand's DIY Kit is made up of 7 types of festive foliage, including aromatic, eucalyptus, rosemary and pine. It comes with styling tips, so you can transform yours into a wreath, centrepiece, garland and much more.

For more top tips and styling ideas, visit Bloom & Wild