BESA Building & Groundworks - Dorset, Hampshire, Somerset, Devon, South & South West England

Dorset · Hampshire · Somerset · Devon

Decking

Raised platforms, integrated seating and planters, and decking that ties cleanly into a patio or hot tub surround — built on solid joists and drainage-aware groundwork, not just boards screwed to whatever's underneath.

Raised timber decking with integrated bench built by BESA Building & Groundworks

Why decking fails early

Most decking problems — soft, spongy boards, rot at the joists, a frame that starts to sag — come down to what's happening underneath, not the boards themselves. Poor ground clearance, no drainage path for water to escape, and joists sat too close to damp soil are the usual culprits. A deck that looks fine when it's built can be structurally failing within a couple of years if the groundwork underneath wasn't done properly.

Because drainage is our background, we pay close attention to how water moves under and around a deck, not just how it looks on top.

What we build

How we approach it

We set joists on proper support with correct ground clearance, and make sure water has somewhere to go rather than pooling underneath the frame. Where the site needs additional drainage — a soakaway, a surface water connection, or regrading — we can handle that as part of the same job.

Ready to get started?

Call us directly or send your details through the form and we'll get back to you, usually the same day during working hours.

Call 0800 043 4200

Frequently asked questions

Why is my decking rotting even though it's treated timber?
Usually because water is pooling underneath rather than draining away — poor ground clearance or no drainage path under the frame lets moisture sit against the joists constantly, which treated timber can't withstand indefinitely.
Can decking support a hot tub?
Yes, but the sub-frame needs to be sized and supported for that specific load from the start — a hot tub is far heavier than standard garden furniture, and the joists and foundations need to reflect that.
Timber or composite — which is better?
Timber is cheaper upfront and has a more traditional look, but needs more maintenance. Composite costs more initially but needs very little upkeep and lasts longer. We can talk through which suits your garden and budget.
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