How Long Does Decking Last?

UPVC decking is built to last – it wouldn’t be out of the question expecting its lifespan to be 20 years plus. It’s weatherproof and doesn’t rot, warp or splinter like timber, so it’s ideal if you’re after an outdoor space that won’t need loads of upkeep. Just a quick clean now and then is enough to keep it looking its best for years to come.

With only a little bit of care, you can help maximise that lifespan (see our other blogs for more details on this!)

Decking has been a popular feature in British gardens for decades, but materials have advanced from only timber to UPVC and other composite materials. 

This push to more modern decking  (and research in the industry) has helped it to last  for periods of two or three decades long with minimal maintenance required to get it there. 

So, how long should decking last? The answer isn’t totally straightforward, but this blog will guide you through it. We’ll explore what affects decking lifespan, compare materials, and share practical advice on how to get the most out of your outdoor space for as long as possible.

You shouldn’t expect all decking to last the same amount of time because the material will play a part in how long it will last, and how much maintenance it might need along the way.

Timber decking is prone to rot, splintering, and fading over time. It usually has the shortest lifespan of the bunch and often needs regular upkeep to keep it looking its best. That means staining, sealing, and a watchful eye for damage, especially after winter.

UPVC decking, on the other hand, is built to go the distance. They’re designed to resist many of the problems timber faces, like moisture damage. While they might come with a slightly higher upfront cost, they often save you time, money, and stress down the line.

Composite decking tends to sit in between timber and UPVC – whilst it can offer a middle ground, your standard composite boards won’t last anywhere near the lifespan of a UPVC product, offering less long term value over time.

Like any product, especially one that lives outdoors, decking can’t be expected to last forever and there are many factors that contribute to its lifespan. 

Your local climate, how the decking is installed, and how well it’s cared for can all make a big difference. Even the most durable decking will wear down eventually if it’s exposed to constant moisture or isn’t installed correctly.

If you’re keen on longevity and low-maintenance living, investing in more resilient materials, like UPVC, is a smart choice from the start.

The climate in the UK is unpredictable. Rain, frost, sunshine, and dampness can all damage decking over time. 

Moisture and the constant swings in temperature can affect different common decking materials too.

Fortunately, composite and UPVC decking hold up better in these conditions. They’re less absorbent, less likely to crack or swell, and far more weather resistant, making them a smart solution for UK gardens that see it all, sometimes in a single day.

However, with a range of composite boards out there, you need to check credentials as the vast majority on offer will fall under the category of high timber content which can still lead to these problems arising much sooner than UPVC.

When we get asked “how long does decking last?” we need to preface the answer with this: it depends on the effort you put in. The beauty of UPVC decking is that it doesn’t require much maintenance, however decking is an investment and therefore it’s a good idea to take steps to extend its life so you can enjoy its benefits for decades. 

Whatever material you decide on, and whatever decking layout you have, there are certain things you can do to extend its life. Avoid dragging heavy objects across the decking platform, avoid harsh chemicals when cleaning.

Wooden decking also requires regular sealing and staining as it will stop moisture absorption and damage. The majority of timber decking needs re-sealing every 1 to 3 years, but composite and UPVC decking do not require this or any staining.

There are certain signs that it’s time your decking needs to be replaced. If the surface feels more slippery than normal, or you notice cracking or warping, it could be time. 

Regularly looking over your decking for any first signs of rot, cracks, and loose or splintering boards. You should also keep an eye out for rusted or protruding nails and screws. Also, wood should not be absorbing so much water as this points towards a failing sealant. 

Fortunately, UPVC decking tends to avoid many of these issues common in timber decking, but there may be aesthetic changes after a few decades of use that may prompt a replacement.