Garden decking in Stourport-on-Severn, planned for homes close to the canal and the river, where drainage, ventilation and flood awareness shape every frame we build.
Stourport grew where the Staffordshire and Worcestershire Canal meets the Severn, and water is part of the town's character. It is also part of the garden: some plots lie close to the river or basins, with low ground and the possibility of occasional high water.
That changes how a deck should be built. We design timber decking in Stourport-on-Severn with moisture in mind from day one, because a deck that looks lovely in June but is rotting by its third winter is not doing its job.
Near the river, we think first about where water goes. Is the garden low? Does it hold puddles after rain? Has it ever been wet in winter? Answers decide the base, the height of the frame and the type of fixings. A deck can actually be a good solution for soggy lawns, since it gives a firm, dry sitting area without extensive groundworks. We favour open, ventilated structures and avoid closing off the sides. Your deck can still be attractive, with clean lines, a handrail if needed and perhaps a corner positioned to take in the view of the water.
Setting the height of a deck is a balance. Higher gives more clearance from damp ground and passing water, but it brings steps and handrails and can affect privacy. We usually measure from the door threshold and the lowest part of the garden, then pick a height that gives access without a steep drop. On sloping plots down to the water, posts at varying heights keep the surface level. Firm footings matter, as soft ground near the river can shift. We choose supports that suit what we find, and discuss the compromises plainly.
Damp air by the river leads to algae and moss, so brush your deck often, especially in autumn and winter. Keep soil and leaves away from the frame and make sure water can drain away freely. Treatments help, but they do not rescue timber that is already rotten. If boards are loose, joists spongy, or posts crumbling at the base, consider replacement rather than repeated repair. In a wet location it is wise to rebuild with improved ventilation and drainage, so the next deck stays sound for longer than the last.
We cover Stourport-on-Severn and neighbouring places, including Kidderminster and Bewdley. The canal basins, riverside walks and older streets of the town sit alongside more recent housing, so gardens vary from tight to roomy. Properties close to the water can have restricted access and low-lying ground, and we ask about both when we first speak. If you are near the river, it is worth checking flood information for your address, as it may influence the height and design of any garden structure. We are happy to talk this through at a visit.
We also take on garden decking work in nearby Kidderminster, Bewdley.
Images on this page are illustrations only.
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It depends how often and how deep. Sometimes a raised, open frame is workable, but we would discuss the risks plainly, and suggest suitable heights and fixings before agreeing any design.
It can, because it provides a dry surface over damp ground. The ground below still needs preparing and the frame must be ventilated, otherwise the damp simply moves into the timber.
Brush regularly, keep trees and plants trimmed back so air and light reach the boards, and clean off growth early. Textured boards also give a bit more grip when things are wet.
SPR Trees & Landscapes, 6 Rose Avenue, Worcester, WR4 9PY
Tell us what you need in Stourport-on-Severn and we will get back to you, usually the same day.
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