Putting It Straight – There’s More Than One Way To Lay Composite Decking!

Like to do things a little differently?

Are you keen to stamp your own personality on a space? Then it’s time to get creative with composite decking from Modern Garden.

It’s easy to fall into the trap of thinking decking needs to be fitted in the standard pattern of straight horizontal or vertical lines. It’s a tried and tested design – and it’s a good one – but contrary to popular belief, it’s not the only option out there.

When it comes to laying composite decking, the potential to get creative is only limited by your imagination. With that in mind, here we take a look at some alternative designs to get your creative juices flowing.

Different ways to lay decking

– Picture framing

Pretty as a picture is just how your decking will look if you use this popular framing technique.

Simply run one or two boards of a different colour around the edge of your deck to create a ‘border’ effect.

Not only does this look good, but it also helps to define different areas of your garden, and is a great way to highlight edges and steps.

Not sure about using a different colour? Create a more subtle border by using a dual-sided decking board and establish a surround with a different finish rather than colour.

– Diamond inserts

Create a focal point to add real pizzaz to your decking. Making a diamond with different colours in the centre of your decking can be a great way to build-in the wow factor. And it doesn’t have to be a diamond…why not see where your creativity takes you?

– Transitional boards

Run a vertical board through the centre of your decking design at key points to add a new dimension to your project. This works particularly well with traditional horizontal decking, but can also act as a break if you want to combine a number of patterns.

– Herringbone

Herringbone is the runaway success of 2021, as it has become the choice for indoor flooring – so why not create the look outside, too?

For herringbone decking, the boards are not cut at an angle but instead are fitted in a broken zigzag, giving a less regimented feel.

– Chevron

Very similar to the herringbone but more uniform. Boards are cut at a specific angle to fit directly against each other (think the letter ‘V’ on repeat).

This pattern lends itself to combining two different colours to add additional interest and personality.

– Patchwork

Stick with the failsafe of horizontal and vertical boards, but work in smaller zones and rotate the direction of use. The best way to picture this is to think of a patchwork quilt (hence the name). It’s a straightforward pattern to achieve, and just adds a little more interest to the standard fit.

Other things to consider

Whatever design you go for, you can add in further customisation with your choice of colours and finishes. Many boards offer either a wood effect or a more lined appearance depending on which face you use, so there are endless ways you can mix things up to create exactly the look you want to achieve.

The actual fitting

Whether you’re intending to have a go yourself or plan to get an experienced fitter in, composite boards are lightweight and easy to work with – making experimenting with design a breeze.

There are numerous ‘how to’ guides available online. You can also read our installation guide, or speak to a member of the team, for further guidance.

Time to get creative

Feeling inspired? Excited to see just how great your black composite decking or brown decking boards could look? Then what are you waiting for? Check out our decking board range online and order yours today.

Alternatively, if you’d like more information or advice about fitting decking, then get in touch with the team. And don’t forget to send in a picture of your finished decking when you’re done – we’d love to see your completed design!