6 Reasons to Choose a Professional Decking Installer in Merseyside
- Joel Livesey
- Sep 14
- 7 min read
Thinking about upgrading your garden with composite decking? Many homeowners in Merseyside start with the same question: should I install it myself or hire a professional decking installer?
While DIY might seem like a money-saving option, the truth is that decking is a complex project where the quality of installation matters just as much as the product itself. At Duralive Decking, we’ve been called out countless times to put right failed DIY or budget installs — and trust us, it costs homeowners more in the long run.
Here are six key reasons why choosing a professional decking installer in Merseyside is the smart investment.
1. Thoughtful Design and Pre-Planning
A successful decking project starts long before the first board is laid. Every garden is unique, with its own layout, ground conditions, and usage needs. That’s why the design and pre-planning stage is so important. It’s here that we assess the site, plan the frame, and ensure the finished deck will not only look the part but also perform properly for years to come. Find out more about the design process we use at Duralive
Drainage and Falls
Water management is one of the most overlooked aspects of decking. Without a proper fall (a slight slope built into the frame), water can pool on the surface or beneath the deck, potentially shortening the life of the sub-structure and creating slip hazards. Professionals design in subtle drainage solutions that protect against long-term damage.
Material Optimisation
Composite boards are a premium product, so waste can quickly add to the cost. Through careful planning and accurate measurement, we optimise the use of all materials (especially deck boards). This not only saves money but also ensures cleaner lines, more consistent joints, and a neater overall finish.
Ground Conditions and Sub-Frame Choices
No two gardens are alike. Some projects are built on existing patios, while others involve sloping, uneven, or damp soil. These conditions directly affect how we design and construct the sub-base. Depending on the area and surroundings, we may build with a continuous concrete block structure or use posts concreted into the ground at specific points to create a stable foundation.
When it comes to frame material, recycled plastic lumber is always the superior option. It won’t rot, absorb moisture, or deteriorate over time, making it the best choice for long-term performance regardless of ground conditions. However, pressure-treated timber is a more budget-friendly alternative. When installed correctly, it can still last many years — though the actual lifespan depends heavily on site conditions, airflow, and how much moisture is present in the ground.
By carefully assessing the site before installation, professionals choose the right combination of sub-base method and frame material to deliver both stability and longevity, while keeping the project aligned with the homeowner’s budget.
2. Experience with Different Materials
Before the installation begins, one of the most important steps is selecting the right materials. Composite decking is not all the same — brands such as Millboard, NewTechWood, and Trex each have their own profiles, board dimensions, fixing systems, and installation requirements. These differences directly influence the design of the frame, the joist spacing, and even the tools needed for the job.
Understanding Brand-Specific Systems
Each manufacturer has unique guidelines. For example:
NewTechWood and Trex often use hidden clip systems that require precise spacing, but have different rules for expansion joints.
Millboard relies on Durafix screws, designed to disappear into the surface without splitting the board.
If you apply the wrong method, you can compromise the structure or even void the warranty.
Getting the Details Right
Professional installers don’t just read the manual — we understand how each product behaves in the real world and how to adapt to site-specific conditions. That includes:
Calculating correct joist spacing for the chosen board and circumstance.
Selecting corrosion-resistant fixings to withstand Merseyside’s damp, coastal climate.
Protecting the frame with butyl tape or other barriers to extend its life.
Ensuring expansion gaps are built in so boards don’t warp or lift over time.
Efficiency Through Experience
For a homeowner, learning all of this means hours of research, trial, and error. For professionals, it’s second nature. Years of hands-on experience mean we know the pitfalls, the shortcuts, and the brand-specific details that ensure a smooth installation. The result is a deck that’s fitted correctly the first time — and built to last.
3. Built to Last in the Merseyside Climate
Merseyside’s coastal location brings a unique set of challenges for outdoor structures. Heavy rainfall, damp conditions, and salty sea air can all take their toll on decking if it isn’t installed correctly. While DIY builds often look fine at first, small mistakes in design and detailing can lead to major problems after just a few winters.
Common Issues with DIY Decking
Inadequate airflow beneath the deck – trapping moisture and encouraging rot in the frame.
Poor drainage design – leading to standing water and faster deterioration of boards and sub-structure.
Unprotected cut ends and fixings – allowing water to penetrate and weaken the boards over time.
Insufficient fixings or spacing – which can cause boards to warp, lift, or move as they expand and contract with the weather.
Professional installers anticipate these challenges from the start. At Duralive Decking, we follow manufacturer guidelines but adapt them to each garden’s specific conditions, whether that means raising the frame for airflow, laying out falls for correct drainage, or sealing every cut edge for long-term protection. We also use corrosion-resistant screws and hidden fixings designed to cope with damp coastal air.
The result? A deck that not only looks great on day one but also resists rot, swelling, movement, and discolouration for decades. In short, professional installation gives you peace of mind that your investment will stand up to Merseyside’s climate year after year.
4. Time, Tools, and Skill
Installing composite decking isn’t a quick weekend project. While enthusiasm and a good DIY attitude go a long way, composite boards demand a much higher level of precision and the right equipment to get the job done properly. Without these, it’s easy to waste materials, create uneven finishes, or even compromise the lifespan of your deck.
Specialist Tools Make the Difference
Unlike timber, composite decking needs specialist saws and blades that cut cleanly without splintering the material. You’ll also need accurate levelling tools to build frames that support the boards evenly, especially on multi-level decks or uneven ground. Many professional installers also use jigs, clamps, and hidden fastener systems to ensure neat, consistent results.
Skills Built on Experience
Beyond the tools, it’s the installer’s experience that really counts. Professionals know how to handle tricky details such as curves, angled layouts, steps, and transitions into other garden features. They also understand how to allow for board expansion and contraction, ensuring your deck stays stable through changing weather conditions. Check out some of our case studies to see how we've used our experience in creating unique outdoor areas.
Save Time, Avoid Stress
For most homeowners, attempting a composite decking installation quickly becomes a time-consuming and frustrating process. What might look like a simple job can easily stretch into several weekends, with lots of trial and error along the way. Hiring a professional saves you days (or even weeks) of labour, spares you the stress of costly mistakes, and gives you the reassurance that your deck is built to last.
5. Tailored Design and Finishing Touches
A deck is more than just a platform of boards — it’s an extension of your home and garden. The difference between an average deck and a stunning outdoor living space often comes down to the finishing touches and bespoke design elements that make it unique to you. Professional installers bring both creativity and technical know-how to ensure your deck not only functions well but also looks beautifully integrated into its surroundings.
Built-In Features for Comfort and Style
With professional design, your deck can include features that take it beyond the basics. These might be:
Integrated seating and planters that make the most of space and add greenery.
LED lighting systems recessed into steps or boards for safety and ambiance.
Slatted screens or composite cladding to create privacy, define zones, or add modern style.
These details transform your deck into a versatile space for entertaining, relaxing, or spending time with family.
Custom Solutions for Every Garden
Every garden has its quirks — from uneven shapes to tricky boundaries. DIY projects often struggle to adapt, but professionals can design tailored solutions: angled layouts to maximise small gardens, multi-level decks to connect different areas, or curved edges to soften the overall look. This level of customisation ensures the deck feels like it belongs in your garden, not just added onto it. Check out some of the custom designs we've created for our customers
Adding Long-Term Value
A thoughtfully designed deck doesn’t just look great in the short term — it adds real value to your home. Buyers and guests alike see the difference between a basic build and a carefully crafted outdoor living space. With quality finishes and professional attention to detail, your deck becomes a feature that enhances both lifestyle and property value.
6. Warranties and Peace of Mind
When you invest in a composite deck, you want the reassurance that it will stand the test of time. One of the biggest advantages of hiring a professional installer is the peace of mind that comes with knowing your project is protected by both manufacturer warranties and the installer’s own guarantee.
Protecting Your Manufacturer Warranty
Composite decking brands such as Millboard, NewTechWood, and Trex all offer long-term warranties, but these often come with strict installation requirements. If the boards aren’t fixed using the correct spacing, fasteners, or support systems, the warranty may be invalidated. Professional installers know these requirements inside out and ensure your project is completed to the manufacturer’s standard — safeguarding your investment.
Installation Guarantees for Extra Security
Beyond manufacturer coverage, reputable installers provide their own installation guarantees. At Duralive Decking, for example, we offer clear terms that protect homeowners against workmanship issues for up to 10 years. This means you’re not left worrying about unexpected movement, poor drainage, or structural problems — if an issue arises due to installation, you’re covered.
Lasting Confidence in Your Deck
Peace of mind isn’t just about paperwork — it’s about trust. By working with an experienced installer, you know your deck has been designed, built, and finished correctly from the start. That confidence lets you enjoy your outdoor space without the nagging worry of future repairs or premature replacement.
In short, professional installation combines product warranties, installation guarantees, and proven expertise to give you complete confidence that your deck will look beautiful and perform reliably for many years to come.
Thinking About Decking in Merseyside?
If you’re planning a garden upgrade in Liverpool, the Wirral, St Helens, or wider Merseyside, trust the experts at Duralive Decking. We design and install bespoke composite decking projects using only premium products, giving you a beautiful, low-maintenance deck that lasts for decades.
📞 Contact us today to arrange your free consultation and get started.
Comments