DIY installation or a building team? Weighing the benefits and risks of a WPC terrace.

Is WPC decking difficult to install?

Modern decking systems are designed to make installation as straightforward as possible. Most manufacturers offer complete kits comprising WPC decking boards, joists, fixing clips, finishing trims and installation instructions. This means that people with basic DIY skills often choose to carry out the work themselves. However, this does not mean that installation is entirely trouble-free. Proper ground preparation, allowance for expansion gaps, correct joist spacing and proper water drainage are all essential.

Advantages of DIY decking installation. 

The main benefit is, of course, saving on labour costs. By choosing to install the decking yourself, you can: 

• save on contractor fees,
• control the pace of the work yourself, 
• learn new skills,
• fit the schedule around your own availability,
• enjoy the satisfaction of completing the project yourself.

For many homeowners, building a deck themselves is also an interesting DIY (Do It Yourself) project, allowing them to create a space perfectly suited to their needs.

Disadvantages of DIY installation.

The savings can quickly disappear if mistakes are made during installation. The most common problems include:

• an incorrectly levelled structure,
• joists spaced too far apart,
• insufficient expansion gaps,
• incorrectly fixed decking boards,
• an incorrectly formed slope for draining water,
• inadequate ventilation beneath the decking.

Any of these mistakes can shorten the life of the decking and increase the cost of any repairs.

Professional contractors have experience gained from completing numerous projects. They know manufacturers’ recommendations and how to avoid the most common mistakes. The benefits of working with professionals include: 

• faster completion,
• correct installation in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions,
• proper ground preparation,
• a neat finish,
• a lower risk of complaints,
• greater peace of mind for the customer.

Good installation contributes to the long-term durability of the entire structure.

Disadvantages of hiring a building team. 

The main drawback is the cost of labour. The installation price depends on:

• the area of the decking,
• the complexity of the project,
• the type of structure,
• the location of the project,
• the scope of any additional work.

During the building season, you should also expect longer waiting times for the availability of reputable contractors. 

Cost calculation – DIY versus professional installation. 

Let’s take the example of a terrace with an area of around 30 m². 

Option 1 – DIY installation. 

Costs include:

• purchasing WPC decking boards,
• joists,
• fixing clips,
• finishing trims,
• tools (if you don’t already have them),
• transport of materials.

You save on labour costs, but you will need to devote your own time and factor in the possibility of making mistakes.

Option 2 – Installation by a professional team.

The cost of materials is supplemented by the contractors’ fees. In return, you get:

• professional workmanship,
• a shorter completion time,
• often a guarantee on the service,
• a lower risk of costly remedial work.

Although the initial cost is higher, in many cases it proves more cost-effective over a period of several or even a dozen years.

When is it worth installing the terrace yourself?

Building it yourself is a good option if:

• you have experience in building work,
• you have the right tools,
• the project is simple and small,
• you can devote enough time to it,
• you read the manufacturer’s instructions carefully.

This option works particularly well for small, ground-level terraces with a simple shape.

When is it better to choose a building team?

Professional installation is worth considering when: 

• the terrace has a large area,
• a complex structure is planned,
• there are stairs or several levels,
• installation is carried out on adjustable pedestals,
• the investor expects a full quality guarantee.

The more advanced the project, the more important the contractors’ experience becomes.

Risk of mistakes – how much does remedial work really cost?

The biggest risk of DIY installation is not the cost of the materials themselves, but the need for remedial work later on. The most common costly problems include:

• removing incorrectly installed decking boards,
• replacing damaged fixing clips,
• reinstalling joists,
• improving drainage,
• replacing damaged structural components.

In many cases, the cost of correcting mistakes exceeds the amount that could have been saved on labour.

How can you reduce the risk, regardless of the method you choose? 

Whether you decide to install the terrace yourself or work with a building team, it is worth keeping a few rules in mind: 

• choose system solutions from a single manufacturer,
• use original installation accessories,
• follow the installation instructions,
• maintain the appropriate expansion gaps,
• ensure proper drainage and ventilation,
• use corrosion-resistant components.

This will help ensure that your terrace remains durable and safe for many years.