A new upgraded decking can transform how you use your outdoor space — whether it’s for family barbecues, relaxing evenings, or entertaining guests. But building one can be a sizeable investment.
Financing may allow eligible customers to spread the cost of a decking project over time rather than paying the full amount upfront.
Note: For raised or large decking, check whether planning permission or local restrictions apply before work begins.
Depending on your needs and credit profile, you may be able to borrow a lump sum from a lender and repay it through fixed monthly payments. Deck loans can cover everything from materials and labour to add-ons like railings, lighting, and pergolas.
The process is straightforward. You apply for a loan, either through a lender, a home improvement company, or a financing partner, and if approved, the funds are paid out as a lump sum. You then repay that amount in fixed monthly instalments over an agreed term, usually anywhere from one to seven years.
The interest rate you're offered will depend on your credit profile, the lender, and the loan amount.
Once the money is in your account, you can use it to pay your contractor directly, cover materials, or handle both. There's no waiting until you've saved the full amount. You agree on the work, get it done, and pay it back over time at a rate that fits your budget.
One of the advantages of using a personal or secured loan for your deck project is that the funds aren't restricted to a single part of the job. You can use them to cover the full scope of work, including:
This flexibility means you're not forced to cut corners on materials or skip features you actually want. If your heart is set on composite decking over softwood, or you want ambient lighting built in from the start. Financing may allow homeowners to choose materials and features that fit their project requirements and budget.
Decks take a beating year-round. Sun, rain, frost, and constant foot traffic all take their toll, and by the time most homeowners notice a problem, it's usually been building for a while. Here are the most common issues that come up during a deck upgrade:
Decking costs are usually estimated by the square metre, but the final quote can vary once a contractor sees the space. A simple ground-level deck is usually much cheaper than a raised design with stairs, railings, lighting, or difficult access.
The tables below give rough UK planning ranges for common decking projects. They are useful for setting a budget, but they should not replace a contractor quote.
| Deck Material | Average Cost per m² | Pros | Cons |
| Softwood | £70–£125 | Lower upfront cost and natural appearance | Needs regular maintenance and may have a shorter lifespan |
| Composite | £90–£160 | Durable and low maintenance | Higher upfront cost and less of a natural timber look |
| Hardwood | £110–£220 | Premium appearance and strong durability | Most expensive and may require specialist installation |
| Deck Size | Install Time | Labour Cost (UK) | Labour Cost (London & South East) |
| Small Deck (10–15m²) | 1-2 days | £250–£800 | £300–£950 |
| Medium Deck (25–35m²) | 2–3 days | £600–£1,800 | £700–£2,200 |
| Large Deck (50–60m²) | 3–5 days | £1,100–£3,300 | £1,300–£4,000 |
Labour is only one part of the cost. Boards, fixings, framing, waste removal, and finishing work can all change the final price.
| Deck Material | Small Deck (10–15m²) | Average Garden Deck (25–35m²) | Large Garden Deck (50–60m²) |
| Softwood | £700–£1,900 | £1,800–£4,400 | £3,500–£7,500 |
| Composite | £900–£2,400 | £2,300–£5,600 | £4,500–£9,600 |
| Hardwood | £1,100–£3,300 | £2,800–£7,700 | £5,500–£13,200 |
These totals are broad estimates for standard supply and installation. A straightforward softwood deck may sit toward the lower end, while composite, hardwood, raised decking, or custom features may push the project higher.
Need help funding your project? Here are a few ways homeowners finance outdoor improvements:
This type of loan uses your property as collateral, which may lead to lower interest rates. However, if you ever find yourself in a position where you cannot make the repayments, your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on a mortgage or any other debt secured on it.
With a personal loan, you get the funds upfront and repay them over a fixed term. These loans typically don’t require home equity.
While smaller decking specialists may not offer financing, larger home improvement companies often work with third-party financing partners.
Choosing to finance a deck project may offer a number of potential benefits depending on individual circumstances.
Borrowing money is a significant financial commitment. Customers should consider whether repayments will be affordable both now and in the future before taking out any form of credit.
Financing can help you begin construction or address urgent issues right away, rather than waiting to save up the full amount.
Spreading the cost over time may help you avoid reducing your savings all at once, though keep in mind you will pay interest on a loan.
Access to financing may allow you to go for the deck you really want with better materials, built-in seating, or ambient lighting.
Adding a well-designed outdoor space may increase property appeal and resale value.
You can fund a new deck through personal loans, secured loans, or retailer financing plans. The right option is a personal choice based on circumstance.
A 6-by-6-meter deck could cost roughly £3,000 to more than £10,000, depending on the material, access, design, groundwork, railings and extras.
It may be rare to find a decking specialist that offers in-house financing. Most smaller companies do not have the resources required.
It's possible, but expect fewer options and higher interest rates. Some lenders do work with borrowers who have a poor credit history, though improving your score before applying can make a real difference to the terms you're offered.
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