Category: Decking Accessories

Weed Membrane: Advantages of Use

Weed control fabrics also known as sheets, covers or weed membrane are an excellent organic and environmentally-sound option for a variety of areas of your garden. It is a practical, easy and clean method weed control and can be very helpful in various situations and is an aid not a remedy. The reason behind it is that any kind of fabric or cover that suppresses weeds by covering them, also keeps fallen leaves and debris from being decomposed and added to the soil.

Weed control fabrics are one of the environmentally friendly alternatives to commercial herbicides. With weed control fabrics, the time limit is the beneficial point, with some fabrics known to last up to ten years. When using weed membrane, remember to remove it after a few years in order to ensure the soil keeps getting nutrition.

Weed membrane is one of the least harmful and most effective measures of protecting your area from weed growth. They can be used to control weeds in areas such as gravel driveways, vegetable gardens, allotments, decking and artificial grass.

Pegs

Here at eDecks, we sell regular Weed Membrane, with two further options of Heavy Duty and Super Heavy Duty depending on your needs and requirements. It is fairly cheap to buy and simple to lay, and you can also order Weed Membrane Pegs and Pins from us to ensure your weed membrane is securely fitted.

Pins

When laying Weed Membrane, it is important to prepare the surface because once it is laid down, you won’t be able to get to it. If you are laying the fabric under decking or a pathway, then it is a matter of removing all plant life from the area and making sure that it is completely flat. A systematic weed-killer will do the job of killing off any existing weeds before you start.

weed killer

If you are creating a planting area where you will be using weed membrane, then you will need to dig the area over well, ensuring you remove all weeds and dig in plenty of organic matter that will release nutrients into the soil. Again, you could use a weed killer rather than weeding by hand, as long as you leave plenty of time for it to take full effect. When digging the area over, remove and sticks and stones that could rip or tear the membrane, firm down the earth and then rake over the area to leave a smooth finish.

Weed membrane comes on a roll, so you will need to finalise the shape and size of the area it is covering before take a pair of sharp scissors to give a neat edging. Roll out the fabric and allow for an inch of overlap where two pieces of fabric will meet. With regards to the edges, cut the membrane to fit the area you are covering and then secure it in place using either landscape staples to pin it in place or decorative rocks and stones.

If you are applying the membrane around existing plants, cut a slit into the fabric from the closest edge and slide it into place around the stem of the plant. If you are adding plants after laying the fabric, set out the plants where you want them positioned, and then for each plant take a sharp knife and cut an X into the fabric, making it just large enough to fit the plant into. Tuck back the flaps and dig a hole using a hand trowel. Put your plant in as normal adding compost as and when required. With weed membrane, you will still need to weed occasionally, but you will be able to pull the weeds easily by hand as they won’t have a chance to get their roots in beyond the top layer.

Weed Membrane

eDecks offers some of the best deals on Weed Membrane around, including all of the installation supplies and tools you may need. Not only do we provide plenty of unbeatable deals but also:

Super-fast FREE delivery on orders over £100*

Handy FREE installation guides.

*Free delivery applies to most of the UK, but some areas may incur a charge. Please check the eDecks website for more details.

Decking Paint: The Benefits of Applying Them

Decking paint is a fairly new addition to traditional decking treatments such as decking oils and stains. Whereas decking oils and stains are about retaining the natural appearance of the wood grain, decking paints are designed to give a different kind of appearance. Decking paints are available in a wide range of colours and are ideal for older decking which has been neglected and makeover projects if a major decking restoration isn’t possible. They can also be used on new decking if you are wanting an alternative look to the standard decking finish. As well as decking, these kinds of paints can also be used on arbours, arches, pergolas, car ports and much, much more. So whether you are wanting a colourful garden, or something demurer, read on for our top tips on using decking paints.

ronseal rescue paint

Benefits of Using a Decking Paint

  • Resistant to foot traffic and weathering. Paint often fills gaps and cracks and gives a thicker finish, so it can often be useful for repairing wood that has already been damaged a little by the elements and bad weather. Some paints are made specifically for that purpose.
  • Available in a range of attractive colours. Painting allows you to use any colour you want and because paint is solid, you can completely cover an old colour which leaves your options wide open.
  • Quick and easy to apply as well as quick drying.
  • Gives long-lasting protection and colour. It can also often be easier to clean, especially if it is a good quality paint and is allowed to cure properly before put into use as it will then create a hard shell that dirt usually washes straight off.
  • Paint is more protective of wood and generally speaking, paint resists rot, mould, and sun damage better than other options.
  • A cheap way to resurrect old, worn decking.

ronseal garden paint elderflower

As with all DIY projects, preparation is the key to success. Simply follow these steps to add some colour to your decking project.

  • Before painting, decked areas should be clean, dry, and free from surface dirt, grit and other surface contaminates.
  • Remove all garden furniture and other items from the decking so that the surface is clear.
  • Remove any old areas of decking stain or paint which have started to crack, peel or flake with a jet washer or decking stripper.
  • Any areas that are affected by mould, algae or fungi should be cleaned with a scraper, stiff broom or brush to remove all surface matter. It is worth treating these areas with a mould and mildew cleaner which will kill off any remaining spores in the wood and helps to prevent re-growth.
  • If required, use a wood preservative but one that doesn’t contain wax, oil or silicone.
  • Paint the decking boards with the decking paint working the full length of 2 to 3 boards at a time.
  • Allow the first coat to dry as per the container instructions.
  • Apply a second coat as directed by the manufacturer.

paint brush

Please note that decking paint may not be suitable for decking which has been oiled or treated with a product that contains wax in the last 12 to 24 months.

eDecks offers some of the best deals on Decking Paint around, including all of the installation supplies and tools you may need. Not only do we provide plenty of unbeatable deals but also:

Delivery starts at just £7.19!

Decking Ideas That Will Make Your Neighbours Jealous

Decking is a great addition to any outdoor space; it adds a whole new area to your home that can be used to bring light into the house while also being a usable space where you can relax, unwind and even enjoy some dinner and drinks with your loved ones. But how can you ensure you get a deck that makes the neighbours jealous – and maybe even increase the value of your home? Here is a collection of our favourite decking ideas that will make your deck better than anyone else’s. Continue reading

Embracing Your Outdoor Space – Small Deck Ideas

Are you challenged by a lack of space in your back garden? Bigger isn’t always better – and we have a whole bunch of small deck ideas to prove it! Ready to take your cluttered backyard to cosy? Read on to find out more!

Create the Illusion of Space

Making the most of your small deck begins with applying the well-known rules of decoration! Like with small indoor rooms, use a lighter wood for the floors and walls. Painting your decking a brighter colour will help to reflect light, creating the illusion of a brighter and spacious area.

Alternatively, if you’re feeling crafty, paint each board of your decking a different colour in lines to create elongating stripes. Not sold on the idea on the idea of painting each board? Make your decking area instantly bigger by hanging a mirror.

Make a Statement

Draw eyes into your deck with a statement piece of furniture. From bright throws and pillows, through to statement rattan sets and Perspex tables, styling your small deck into a Pinterest-worthy space will help to take away from a claustrophobic feel. Think cosy, instead of cramped and create a haven of cushions, crochet and centrepiece candles.

Vertical Impact

Challenged for space horizontally? Think outside the box and use a fence lattice to grow plants and flowers upwards on your decking. Not confident your green thumb will stretch to those height? Make your very own garden using only plant pots – a collection of brightly coloured flowers and shrubs are ideal for sprucing up a dull deck.

Light Up

Much like painting decking a light colour, installing deck lights can help to create the illusion of space. String up some outdoor fairy lights, or dress your deck to impress by installing decking floor lights.

Small Deck Ideas – Building Your Dream Deck

Have our small deck ideas given you the appetite to get cracking on your next project? A great deck shouldn’t break the bank! Snap up a bargain at eDecks now!

5 Ways to Make the Most of Your Garden Deck This Summer

garden deck

With summer in full swing, it’s the perfect time to take advantage of your outdoor oasis. Step away from the TV box sets and embrace the surprisingly glorious British summertime. There’s nothing better in summer than enjoying some quality time on your garden deck. Read on to discover five tips for getting the most out of your garden deck over the next few months.

Host a Summer Drinks Party

Admittedly, there’s a lack of opportunity to socialise outside in the UK. So when opportunity does come knocking, you have to take full advantage. Invite your family and friends to admire your garden and soak up the sunshine whilst cracking open a bottle of wine. Decking lights are a great way to ensure you can party until dusk, whilst showcasing your garden in the best light!

Unleash Your Green Fingers

You may not be the next Alan Titchmarsh but gardening can be a great activity for all the family. Summer is a great time to dig out those gardening gloves and have a go. Why not plant some blooms on and around your deck to add a splash of colour? The Rosa Planter would add a lovely touch to your decking this summer.

Get the Family Together for a BBQ

Summer is the perfect excuse to get the family together for a good old fashioned BBQ. After all, nothing beats the taste of burgers and sausages cooked outside! Some garden furniture is a great investment for your decking, lasting for years of family fun! The Ledbury 9 Piece Rattan Cube set looks great on a garden deck and is perfect for all the family.

Catch Some Rays on Your Garden Deck

Your garden deck is the perfect place to relax and work on your summer tan. Grab your sunglasses, a good book and an ice cream and enjoy the tranquillity of your own back garden. If the heat gets too much a parasol is a great option for enjoying the fresh air whilst keeping cool. The Genoa Cantilever Parasol looks great and is produced using weather resistant materials so you can leave it out all year.

Some Evening Stargazing

We’ve all seen these romantic scenarios on TV where people spend the evening cuddling under the stars. Who’s to say you can’t do it too? Your decking makes the perfect setting for a spot of evening stargazing from the comfort of your own garden. Switch on the decking lights, bring out your favourite cosy blankets, light some candles and play your favourite tunes -the perfect evening spent with friends or that special someone!

Are you itching to get planning your summer of outdoor fun? Pop over to eDecks now for all your DIY essentials to take your garden deck to the next level.

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