Johnny’s planning guide

Planning the cost of your deck

The frame, ground, materials and access all affect a deck quote. This guide covers the decisions to make before I look at your job around Penistone and nearby areas.

By Johnny Stott. Originally published 21 April 2026. Revised 31 October 2026.

Treated timber deck joists over membrane before the boards are fitted

Repair or rebuild comes first

A few soft boards do not tell you the condition of the frame underneath. I look at posts, bearers and joists before advising on a repair. Sound supports with damaged boards call for different work from a frame with decay through it. The decking repairs page explains what I check.

The old UK guide also mentioned Leeds. My working focus is now Penistone, Barnsley, Holmfirth, Denby Dale and the surrounding areas. A guide cannot account for what is underneath your deck, so it should help you prepare questions rather than serve as a price list.

Timber and composite

Timber is the traditional option. Pressure-treated softwood has a different cost and appearance from hardwood. Timber needs care, including cleaning and an appropriate oil or stain. Composite boards combine wood fibre and plastic and have their own fitting and care requirements. Check the specific product rather than assuming every board performs in the same way.

The material choice is only part of the quote. The frame, ground preparation, layout and fixings still need to suit the deck. I can talk through what you want the finished space to do and explain the construction before the boards are chosen. Ask about upkeep as well as the initial appearance.

Shape, height and steps

A straightforward rectangle involves different cutting and framing from curves, corners or multiple levels. Steps, balustrades and built-in seating add details to plan. Tell me where the deck will meet doors, the lawn and any path. Photographs of the whole space help me understand those relationships before visiting.

The older guide published £80–£150 per step as a typical range. That retained range depends on the job and is not a current quote for your steps. The number, layout, structure and chosen material need looking at together. I will quote after seeing the work.

Raised layouts may need permissions or other requirements checking before construction. Ask the council responsible for your property if you are unsure. This guide does not establish what is permitted at your address. I do not take on gas work for patio heaters or other outdoor appliances.

Preparation and access

Uneven ground, old paving and an existing deck that needs removing all change the preparation. The garden sequence in the gallery shows the old deck coming out before membrane, treated joists and boards go in. It is useful to see how much work sits below the finished surface.

Tell me about narrow passages or materials that need carrying through the house. Include an approximate size and explain what feels wrong with the existing deck. Only take photographs from safe positions. You do not need to lift boards or crawl underneath to start an enquiry.

Your quote and the work it includes

I give free written quotes, with a fixed price for most jobs. I explain the agreed work and materials before you decide. If something hidden changes the scope after work starts, I talk to you before doing extra work. Bank transfer and cash are accepted, with a possible materials deposit for larger jobs.

I work on my own from Ingbirchworth near Penistone. You can check the areas I cover or send your postcode with your message. If the deck joins a path or patio that also needs attention, include it in the photographs and we can look at the wider job together.

A few practical answers

Still have a question? You can ask me directly.

Call 07355 105389
Can you quote from a photograph alone?

A photograph is a useful starting point. I come and look at the deck and its supports before giving a price.

Does a surface treatment fix a weak deck?

A treatment does not repair decayed supports. I look at the structure before recommending work to the visible boards.

Let’s get it sorted

07355 105389

Tell me what
needs doing.

A free quote, in writing. You deal with me from the first conversation to the finished job.

What happens next

  1. I discuss the job with you.
  2. I arrange to look at the work and take measurements.
  3. You get a written quote. If you are happy, we agree a date.

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