There are two kinds of decking project in Dendermonde: the upgrade (the existing deck needs replacing, the foundation stays) and the start from scratch (new garden, nothing there yet). Each calls for a different approach and a different timber. Here is how we handle both.
When is an upgrade better than a rebuild?
Your existing deck is a candidate for an upgrade (replacing the boards only) if:
- The foundation and joists underneath are still sound (no rot)
- Drainage still works (no puddles after rain)
- The height still matches your door or threshold
Replacing the boards alone saves roughly 40-50% on material costs compared with starting over completely.
When is a full rebuild necessary?
- Visible rot in the substructure
- Puddles around the deck (subsidence or a drainage problem)
- You want to enlarge it or change its shape
- More than 15 years old (the foundation is nearing the end of its life)
Which timber for your Dendermonde garden?
| Timber | Service life (indicative) | Maintenance | Price range |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bangkirai | 20-25 years | Oil annually | €€ |
| Ipé | 30-40 years | Minimal | €€€ |
| Thermo-treated maple | 15-20 years | 2× per year | €€ |
| Larch | 10-15 years | Annually | € |
For Dendermonde (9200 + the districts of Grembergen, Oudegem, Appels, Sint-Gillis-bij-Dendermonde, Baasrode, Schoonaarde, Mespelare) bangkirai is often the chosen middle road.
Do you need a permit for your deck?
Decks under 80 m² and less than 1.5 m above ground level are usually exempt. Larger or raised decks follow the Flemish rules — a notification is normally enough. Always check via omgevingsloket.be.
What does the material for a 25 m² deck cost?
Indicative material prices (boards + substructure + fixings), excluding delivery:
- Bangkirai, complete: from an indicative €1,950
- Ipé, complete: from an indicative €2,950
- Larch, complete: from an indicative €950
You will see the exact price and delivery cost (per address) at checkout.
Common mistakes with timber decking in Dendermonde
A well-laid deck lasts 15-30 years; a badly laid one needs work after 5. Four common mistakes:
- No drainage, or poor drainage. Puddles after rain are a sign the water cannot escape. Set a drainage direction (1-2% fall) and make sure the ground underneath is permeable.
- Board gaps too tight. Decking boards swell and shrink with the seasons. Leave 4-6 mm between boards — otherwise the deck opens up during damp weeks or binds once it expands.
- The wrong screws. Ordinary steel rusts on an outdoor deck within a single season. Always use stainless screws (A2 as standard, A4 in damp or salty locations).
- Not pre-drilling hardwood. Bangkirai, ipé and padauk are hard. Driving screws without pre-drilling splits the timber. Pre-drill with a bit slightly smaller than the screw to prevent it.
Frequently asked questions — timber decking in Dendermonde
What is the cheapest timber for a deck? Douglas fir (treated) or larch are the entry-level options, from around €38-€42/m² for board material. With those species, do allow for annual maintenance (oil or saturator) to hold the colour. Bangkirai and ipé cost more but need far less upkeep.
How long does a timber deck last? Indicatively: larch 10-15 years, Douglas fir 8-12 years untreated (15+ treated), bangkirai 20-25 years, ipé 30-40 years. Maintenance extends the life — neglect shortens it.
How long does delivery take? Normally 2-3 weeks after a confirmed quotation. Delivery cost is calculated at checkout on postcode and volume.
What does a typical 25 m² deck cost? Indicative material packages (boards + substructure + fixings, excluding delivery): larch from around €950, bangkirai from around €1,950, ipé from around €2,950. The exact price is in the quotation.
Can I collect it myself? Yes. Collection is possible at one of our locations in Flanders. Which location applies to your order we arrange — it depends on timber type and volume.
Does the Lowest Price Guarantee apply? Yes, for any identical offer (same timber, specification, volume, Belgian supplier). Send us the comparison quotation and we will match it.
Send a photo of your current deck plus the dimensions. You will have a quotation within one working day.
