4 Sloping Garden Ideas on a Budget

When adding sloped decking to your garden this may be more challenging than you initially think. There are numerous factors to consider before building this, given that the installation process is not as straightforward in contrast with projects on a completely flat surface.

In this article we will discuss the various options you can do to level your garden or to simply enhance your decking project.

Build a Multi-level Composite Deck

When adding a multi-level area, like the one to the right, this is more of a complex design for your composite decking. You have the ability to set multiple levels, at different heights, which can be connected via stairways or ramped paths – which look brilliant once they are complete. This sort of design adds character to your garden.

However, like most things, there are downsides to adding this to your garden such as; these may increase in installation time and cost of materials. You may also need to consider adding some sort of safety railing if the raised area is quite high – which again will increase costs and installation time.

Add Stairs to Your Garden

Due to most gardens having uneven areas, it is quite rare for a garden to naturally provide a perfectly level surface to work on. This is due to contours and undulation.

In some cases, having an average gradient can actually be beneficial to your decking project. Gradual slopes allow you to install steps with less solid construction build ups and can be based up like patios with the steps acting as low retaining walls.

Again you may wish to add railing for safety along the stairs.

Tiered Decking

Another great addition to your sloped garden is installing tiered decking. Tiered decking is similar to multi-level and elevated decks.

Tiered decking uses multiple steps to frame the landscape. For this reason, there is not much space below the deck. This option works well with gentler slopes.

Like multi-level and elevated decking, tiered decking is an efficient use of space. Not only can this create a sense of an elongated garden but can also be used to section your garden, such as an area can be used as an entertainment section for example.

Cover the Sloping Sides with Flowers

Soil erosion is a natural geological process, in which soil is removed by wind and rain. The soil can be washed away in sheets and flowing streams of water.

Gardens with slopes are more likely to erode due to the gradient. If you plant flowers on these slopes this will reduce the effects of the rain on the soil.

Using different sizes of plants, like our customer has done here, not only does this make the area more aesthetically pleasing but can also help hide any slopes or uneven areas while still protecting the plants.

Including planting boxes is also a great way to do this.

Building a Large Fascia

Given that your decking is going to be raised you may be able to see the substructure at certain parts of the decking when standing face on.

You can use decking boards to create a fascia in order to hide the frame that lies beneath the surface.

This will add massive value to the decking and give this a 3D look.

Things to Remember When Making Decking Ideas for Sloping Garden

It’s important to plan your project ahead of time to ensure all the correct materials are purchased. For elevated decking, you may wish to use traditional wood decking boards, however we would suggest using composite due to its many benefits.

If you wish to add tiered or multi-level decking, ground contact is unavoidable. For this reason, you will want to use materials resistant to moisture, moulds, mildew, and insects – such as composite.

Alternatively, you can use synthetic materials for your decking. PVC decking boards offer durability and resistance to common wood issues. Another excellent option is composite decking boards. Composites have high resistance to weather and warping. Unlike PVC, they also look similar to wood.

Planning permission is another concern for many homeowners. When building slopes on decking, you may or may not need planning permission.

If the decking is adjacent to the house, does not exceed 30cm in height, does not affect neighbours’ privacy, and does not occupy 50% of the garden space along with other structures, you won’t likely need permission. However, it’s best to contact your local planning department for more details regarding this matter.

Please see below for our full blog on how to create a sloped decking.

https://ultradecking.co.uk/how-to-build-raised-decking

For maintenance tips and tricks, visit our blog below.

https://ultradecking.co.uk/how-to-clean-your-decking-boards/

Conclusion

There are many different styles, materials and methods you can use when adding fencing to your garden to have your area looking its best. Fencing doesn’t have to be boring or an eye sore and can actually enhance the appearance of your space as well as adding security.

Ensure to browse online and check the quality and colour in person also before purchasing to avoid disappointment.

Try something outside the box and go for a more stand out option to take your garden to the next level for you and your family to enjoy.

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