Decking Removal Skip Guide: Boards, Joists and Fixings Made Easy

Timber boards, joists, support posts, and hundreds of nails and screws can fill a skip faster than expected during decking removal. The article guides on disposing of decking waste in the UK, estimating its volume, and choosing the most suitable skip size. 

What Waste Does Decking Removal Create? 

A decking removal endeavor can result in the following types of materials; 

• Deck boards 
• Timber joists 
• Support posts
• Handrails and balusters 
• Nails
• Screws and brackets
• Weed membrane
• Footings (concrete)
• Plastic or composite decking boards 

If the decking has been built over several years, you may also uncover soil, rubble, and general garden waste. 

Can Decking Go in a Skip? 

Yes; most skip hire companies accept timber decking as part of a mixed builders’ waste load. Composite decking that includes wood, fiber and plastic is also accepted by most of the skip providers in London including ProSkip, but it’s always a good idea to clearly mention the type of waste at the time of hiring to avoid extra fees and rejected collections. 

Estimating How Much Waste You Will Have 

Decking materials, even if seemingly light, are quite bulky. 

For a rough guide, a 4 yard skip would be enough for a small deck (10 to 15 m²). A medium-sized deck (15 to 30 m²) requires a 6-yard skip. Large commercial decks may require an 8-yard skip with several collections. Removing the joists and support structure usually results in twice as much waste compared to what is visible on the deck boards alone, so keep that in mind while hiring a skip.

For larger projects, especially for commercial premises, staggered skip exchanges can keep things moving along smoothly – skip is collected and replaced with another when full. 

Wood-Only vs Mixed Waste Loads

It’s much easier and cheaper to dispose of wood-only waste as compared to mixed loads composed of soil, concrete, plastics, metal fixtures and miscellaneous rubbish. Therefore, it’s always a good idea to keep wood separate from other heavier materials. 

Nails, Screws and Safety Tips 

Old decking has exposed fixings, often numbering in the hundreds. To remove them safely; 

• Use heavy-duty gloves. 
• Wear safety goggles. 
• Inspect boards for nails sticking out. 
• Stack the timber properly. 
• Screw loose screws and brackets. 

This makes it much easier to load the skip and also eliminates the possibility of injuries. 

What About Concrete Footings? 

The deck posts are usually placed in concrete. Small amounts of concrete usually can be put in the same skip but adds a lot of weight to the waste. If your project involves getting rid of a lot of footings, tell your skip provider beforehand. 

Grab Hire vs Skip Hire 

Grab hire may be better if: 

• The decking is on a large concrete base. 
• The quantity of waste is several tons. 
• Skip placement is challenging due to limited site access. 

For most domestic decking projects, however, the easiest solution is to use a builders’ skip. 

What Happens to Old Decking? 

After collection, decking wastes are transferred to a licensed transfer facility. 

Commonly, materials are processed as follows; 

• Timber is re-cycled into biomass fuel or wood products. 
• Metal fixings are separated for recycling. 
• Concrete is crushed into aggregate.
• Metal fixings are separated for disposal.

This helps reduce landfill waste and support recycling across the UK.

Final Thoughts 

Decking removal produces more waste than many expect: joists, posts and concrete footings are factored in. Therefore, planning beforehand can help you greatly reduce costs and keep the process smooth. 

FAQs

Can nails and screws stay in the wood?

Yes. Metal fixings are usually separated during processing.

What skip size is best for decking removal?

A 6-yard builders’ skip is suitable for most domestic projects.

Can composite decking go in a skip?

Usually yes, although it is best to confirm with your skip provider.

Do concrete footings need separate disposal?

Small amounts can usually go in the same skip, but larger quantities may require special arrangements.