Creating a Low-Maintenance Outdoor Space with Fencing and Decking

Designing an outdoor space that is both beautiful and low maintenance can significantly enhance your enjoyment and relaxation.   Here we’ll guide you through the process of creating a low-maintenance outdoor space with fencing and decking, providing tips on material selection, cleaning, and maintenance, as well as design ideas to inspire you.

Selecting the Right Materials

Choosing low-maintenance materials for your outdoor space is crucial in minimising upkeep and maximising your leisure time. Consider the following options:

• Composite Decking: Composite decking is an excellent choice for a low-maintenance outdoor space. Made from a blend of recycled wood fibres and plastic, composite decking offers durability, resistance to rot, fading, and staining. It requires no staining or sealing and only occasional cleaning with soap and water.
• PVC Fencing: PVC fencing is a popular choice for its durability and low maintenance. It resists rot, fading, and cracking, and doesn’t require painting or staining. A simple rinse with a garden hose is usually sufficient to keep it clean.

Tips for Cleaning and Maintenance

Although low-maintenance materials require less attention, regular cleaning and maintenance are still necessary to ensure their longevity and aesthetic appeal. Follow these tips:

• Composite Decking: Sweep away debris regularly to prevent scratches and stains. Clean with a mild soap and water solution using a soft brush or sponge. Avoid using abrasive cleaners or pressure washers, as they can damage the surface. Periodically inspect for any loose boards or screws and repair as needed.
• PVC Fencing: Rinse the fence with a garden hose to remove dirt and grime. For stubborn stains, use a mixture of mild soap and water. Avoid using abrasive cleaners or brushes that may scratch the surface. Check for any loose or damaged sections and repair promptly.

Design Ideas for Low-Maintenance Outdoor Spaces

Incorporate these design ideas to create an outdoor space that is not only easy to maintain but also visually appealing:

• Minimalist Landscaping: opt for low-maintenance landscaping options such as native plants, succulents, or drought-tolerant species that require less water and upkeep. Install a weed barrier to prevent weed growth and use mulch or gravel for low-maintenance ground cover.
• Integrated Planters: Incorporate built-in planters into your decking or fencing design. These planters can be made from the same low-maintenance materials and can house low-maintenance plants or flowers, adding beauty without the need for excessive care.
• Privacy Screens: Use fencing to create privacy screens in your outdoor space. Composite or vinyl fencing panels can be arranged creatively to provide privacy while also acting as a design element. This eliminates the need for additional maintenance associated with plants or other privacy solutions.
• Multi-Level Decking: Consider multi-level decking to add dimension and interest to your outdoor space. Composite decking is ideal for multi-level designs as it requires minimal maintenance and is highly durable. Incorporate built-in seating or storage options to maximise functionality and minimise clutter.
• Lighting: Install low-maintenance lighting fixtures such as solar-powered or LED lights. These options require little maintenance and energy consumption, providing both ambiance and practicality to your outdoor space.

Creating a low-maintenance outdoor space with fencing and decking is not only achievable but also rewarding. By selecting the right materials, implementing regular cleaning and maintenance practices, and incorporating thoughtful design ideas, you can enjoy a beautiful and hassle-free outdoor oasis. Whether you choose composite decking or PVC fencing, or both – remember that proper care and periodic inspections will help ensure their longevity and preserve their aesthetic appeal. With these tips and ideas, you can create an outdoor space that requires minimal upkeep, allowing you to relax and enjoy your surroundings to the fullest.

At Edge, you can find all the components you need for a great outdoor space that is pleasing to the eye, whilst requiring minimal upkeep and maintenance. Check out our Triton Decking range, and our Liniar Fencing!

If you’d like to have a chat about your garden requirements, we’d love to help out! You can also visit our Chichester Branch to view samples.

Give us a call on 03450213333 or pop an email to [email protected]

13th July 2023