If you live in South Devon, you know that our weather is… let’s say, “characterful.” From the salty sea mists in Teignmouth to the heavy rain that rolls off Dartmoor and settles in the valleys of Newton Abbot, our outdoor spaces have to work hard to stay looking good.
Hi, I’m Steve, owner of South Devon Construction. I’ve spent over 25 years in the building trade, starting out as a labourer right here in Devon. Today, I use my Level 7 Diploma in Construction Management and years of “hard graft” to help homeowners make the right choices for their builds.
One of the most common questions I get asked when we’re planning a garden transformation is: “Steve, should I go with traditional timber or modern composite decking?”
In the Devon climate, the answer isn’t always simple. Here is my honest take on both.
The Traditional Choice: Timber Decking
There’s no denying the beauty of a natural wood deck. It has a warmth and authenticity that fits perfectly with our local landscape—whether you’re overlooking the Teign Estuary or tucked away in a cottage in Ashburton.
The Pros:
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Affordability: Timber is generally more cost-effective upfront than composite.
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Natural Feel: It stays cooler underfoot during those rare, scorching Devon summer days.
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Versatility: You can stain or paint it any colour to match your home’s aesthetic.
The Devon Reality Check: Because I’ve “seen a lot of builds,” I have to be honest: timber requires commitment. Our damp winters can lead to algae growth, making wood incredibly slippery and prone to rot if it isn’t treated annually. If you love the look of wood, you have to be prepared for the maintenance.
The Modern Contender: Composite Decking
Composite decking is made from a blend of wood fibres and recycled plastics. It’s become a huge favourite for my clients in Newton Abbot and Kingsteignton who want a “fit and forget” solution.
The Pros:
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Weather Resistance: It doesn’t warp, rot, or splinter, even after a month of Devon drizzle.
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Low Maintenance: No sanding, staining, or sealing. A quick wash with a hose is usually all it needs.
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Safety: Most high-quality composites have excellent anti-slip ratings, which is a major plus given our wet climate.
The Devon Reality Check: The initial investment is higher. However, as someone with a background in Quantity Surveying and Cost Estimation, I often show my clients how the cost levels out over 5–10 years because you aren’t spending money on tins of expensive decking oil every spring.
Steve’s Verdict: Which is right for you?
At South Devon Construction, we don’t do “one-size-fits-all.“
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Choose Timber if: You’re on a tighter initial budget, you love the smell and feel of real wood, and you don’t mind a weekend of “hard graft” once a year to keep it in top shape.
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Choose Composite if: You want a seamless, stress-free experience and an outdoor space that looks as good in ten years as it does on day one, without the chores.
Why Choose South Devon Construction?
Whether you want a small timber platform or a sprawling, multi-level composite terrace, we offer a tailor-made approach. For smaller decking projects, I work with a small team of local professional tradesmen to ensure the highest quality finish. For larger projects that might involve structural changes or Building Control, we act as Principle Contractors, managing the entire process for you.
We cover Newton Abbot, Exeter, Totnes, Ivybridge, and the surrounding South Devon areas.
Ready to get your garden ready for the summer? Give me a call today for a free consultation. I’ll bring my 25 years of experience to your garden to help you design a deck that’s built to last.
South Devon Construction: Honesty, Integrity, and Hard Graft.
