Decking, is it still terrible?

[AhBiscuits]

We've recently had a small extension so the patio was ripped up and the garden is now a disaster. We're considering whether decking would be a better option than a new patio. I know it's known for being slippery, rotting and rats nesting underneath. Is it still like that or is it better these days?

Yes decking still rots, is slippery and rats like living underneath. New patio is the best option.

Following as similar situation!

It’s still shit.

Apparently these days fashion conscious rats prefer bushes, but there are still a few types that are willing to use decking as a place to live.

We've composite decking, which shouldn't rot and we expect it to outlast us. The old wooden decking did rot after about 15 years, so we replaced it with composite.

Our deck is level with the ground and sealed on all sides, so rats can't get access underneath - at least I hope not! I've never seen any.

But yes, if there's been a frost it can be a bit slippery.

We recently pulled up our crappy wooden decking (slippery and warps in the heat) and a massive rat ran out which caused my big burly builder to run out of the garden screaming (frankly hilarious)

We’ve replaced it with natural stone instead which looks much better and isn’t bothered by sun or rain. The rats have relocated to the plot of land next door so my cats can still chase them.

I'd put down a new patio rather than decking. Far more practical. Anything that leaves a gap underneath is going to attract rodents