Why the back door decides
Many Darlington homes, especially in Mowden and Harrowgate Hill, have kitchens or living rooms a few steps above the garden. Without a deck, people step down onto an old patio or a strip of concrete, and the garden feels disconnected. A raised deck at door height brings the outside right up to the house.
Designing for children
On a raised deck, guarding is essential. We use vertical bars or glass panels rather than horizontal rails, so there's nothing for a child to climb, with gaps small enough to stop a head or limb slipping through. A gate at the top of the steps keeps toddlers on the deck. We place steps where you can see them from the table.
A firm, solid frame
We use deeper joists and beams on raised decks so they feel solid, not bouncy, when children run across them. Posts sit on concrete pads, braced so the deck stays rigid. Where we fix to the house wall, we keep below the damp-proof course; otherwise the deck is freestanding.
Planning permission
Decking is normally permitted development, but not where any part is higher than 30cm above the ground. Most raised decks need permission. We'll measure your levels at the visit and explain what's likely to be needed, and help with drawings.
Using the space underneath
The area under a raised deck can be clad and fitted with a door to store bikes, toys and garden tools. It keeps the lawn clear and the garden tidier.
Good to know
Can a raised deck be safe for toddlers?
Yes, if it's designed for them. Non-climbable guarding, small gaps and a gate at the top of the steps make a big difference. We'll talk about your children's ages at the visit.
Can you build round a split-level garden?
Yes. If the garden already has two levels, we can build a deck that links them, or one deck on each level joined by wide steps.
