Based on looking at the website Ultimatesystems.co.uk, the company presents itself as a well-established and comprehensive provider of decking solutions across the UK. They specialise in manufacturing, supplying, and installing uPVC, caravan, timber, and composite decking products. While the site conveys professionalism and experience, a thorough review reveals areas where transparency and comprehensive information could be enhanced to meet the highest standards of trust and ethical consideration.
Overall Review Summary:
- Website Professionalism: Good
- Product Range: Extensive (uPVC, Timber, Composite, Millboard, Toughened Glass)
- Service Area: All of UK
- Experience: Over 20 years
- Key Services: Manufacturing, Supply, Installation, Free Designs & Quotations
- Product Guarantees: Stated but details not readily available
- Customer Reviews/Testimonials: Not prominently featured
- Company Information (About Us, Founders): Lacking detail
- Privacy Policy/Terms & Conditions: Links not easily found on homepage
- Ethical Considerations: Seems to align with permissible business practices, focusing on home improvement.
Ultimatesystems.co.uk positions itself as a long-standing industry player, boasting over two decades of experience and a broad service reach across the entire United Kingdom. Their commitment to offering the “best products on the decking market supported by the best customer service and aftercare” is a strong claim. They highlight their independence from single manufacturers, allowing them to source from various top-tier suppliers. However, for a truly transparent and trustworthy online presence, particularly from an ethical standpoint, more detailed information on their guarantees, customer feedback mechanisms, and comprehensive legal policies would be beneficial. Without these readily accessible, potential customers might find it challenging to fully assess the company’s reliability beyond its self-declared professionalism.
Best Alternatives for Ethical Home Improvement & Decking:
Here are some excellent alternatives for your home improvement projects, focusing on quality, transparency, and ethical business practices.
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- Key Features: Wide range of DIY and garden products, including decking materials, tools, and accessories. Offers both online and in-store shopping, click & collect, and delivery services. Known for comprehensive product information and guides.
- Average Price: Varies widely by product and project size.
- Pros: Extensive selection, competitive pricing, readily available across the UK, strong brand reputation, helpful project guides.
- Cons: Can be overwhelming due to vast choice, quality can vary across different product lines.
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- Key Features: Specialises in home improvement, offering a vast array of building materials, garden supplies, and decking solutions. Provides design services for kitchens and bathrooms, and frequently has trade discounts.
- Average Price: Mid-range, often competitive for bulk purchases.
- Pros: Good balance of quality and price, strong focus on building materials, knowledgeable staff, often offers good deals.
- Cons: Less focus on bespoke design compared to specialists, some products might require professional installation.
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- Key Features: A leading supplier of building materials and products to the UK construction industry. Offers a robust selection of timber and composite decking, catering to both trade and DIY customers.
- Average Price: Generally trade-oriented pricing, good for larger projects.
- Pros: High-quality materials, strong reputation in the building industry, good for professional-grade supplies.
- Cons: Less consumer-focused website, minimum order quantities might apply, primarily geared towards trade.
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- Key Features: Another major UK builder’s merchant, providing a wide array of timber, landscaping materials, and decking products. Strong local branch network and trade services.
- Average Price: Competitive for bulk and trade orders.
- Pros: Reliable supply chain, good for specific timber needs, strong customer service at branch level.
- Cons: Website navigation can be less intuitive for general consumers, primarily focuses on trade.
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- Key Features: An enormous marketplace offering various decking kits, individual boards, accessories, and tools from numerous sellers. Convenient online shopping and delivery.
- Average Price: Highly variable depending on seller and product.
- Pros: Huge selection, often competitive prices, fast delivery, customer reviews can help inform decisions.
- Cons: Quality can vary significantly between sellers, difficult to assess large items without seeing them, returns can be cumbersome for bulky goods.
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- Key Features: Offers a good range of garden and outdoor living products, including decking boards, kits, and accessories. Focuses on inspiring home and garden projects.
- Average Price: Generally in the mid-range.
- Pros: Good for garden-focused projects, often has inspiring visual content, convenient for local pickup.
- Cons: Smaller range compared to dedicated DIY superstores, some specialised materials might not be available.
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- Key Features: A specialist supplier of timber decking and related products. Focuses on high-quality, sustainable timber, offering a more curated selection.
- Average Price: Tends to be higher due to specialisation and quality.
- Pros: Expertise in timber decking, emphasis on sustainability, potentially higher quality materials.
- Cons: Limited to timber options, might not be as widely available as general DIY stores.
Find detailed reviews on Trustpilot, Reddit, and BBB.org, for software products you can also check Producthunt.
IMPORTANT: We have not personally tested this company’s services. This review is based solely on information provided by the company on their website. For independent, verified user experiences, please refer to trusted sources such as Trustpilot, Reddit, and BBB.org.
Ultimatesystems.co.uk Review & First Look
A first glance at Ultimatesystems.co.uk immediately conveys a sense of established professionalism. The website is clean, with clear contact information prominently displayed, including a telephone number (01625 820025) and a call to action to request a brochure. The site highlights its extensive experience, stating “over 20 years” in the decking industry, which is a significant indicator of stability. Their declared mission—”To ensure our customers receive the best products on the decking market supported by the best customer service and aftercare”—sets a high standard for customer expectations.
Initial Impressions and User Experience
The overall user experience is straightforward, with the homepage providing a concise overview of their services and product types: uPVC, timber, and composite decking. The “Coronavirus Update” is a thoughtful addition, showing an awareness of current public health concerns and operational adjustments. However, while the site is functional, it lacks some of the interactive elements or rich content that modern websites often feature, such as video testimonials or detailed project galleries, which could further enhance user engagement and trust.
Product Range and Specialisations
Ultimatesystems.co.uk proudly states they are “manufacturers, suppliers and installers” and are “NOT tied to any single manufacturer or company.” This independence is positioned as a key advantage, allowing them to “choose to supply from only the best on the market.” Their product offerings are diverse, covering:
- Composite Decking: Known for durability and low maintenance.
- uPVC Decking: A popular choice for caravans, lodges, and park homes due to its resilience.
- Timber Decking: Classic and versatile, suitable for various outdoor spaces.
- Millboard Decking: A premium composite option often emulating natural timber.
- Toughened Glass: Implies balustrade or screening options for a modern look.
They cater to a broad clientele, including “Caravan and Lodge industry as well as commercial and residential,” offering “Verandas, Sun Decks, Balconies and Skirting.” This comprehensive range suggests they can handle a wide variety of project requirements.
Ultimatesystems.co.uk Pros & Cons
When evaluating Ultimatesystems.co.uk, it’s essential to weigh its strengths against potential areas for improvement. A balanced perspective helps potential customers make informed decisions.
Advantages of Ultimatesystems.co.uk
The company presents several compelling reasons for customers to consider their services.
- Extensive Experience: With “over 20 years” in the industry, Ultimatesystems.co.uk boasts a long track record, suggesting stability, deep knowledge, and a robust understanding of the decking market. This level of experience often translates into efficient project management and problem-solving capabilities.
- Comprehensive Service Offering: They are not just suppliers; they manufacture, supply, and install. This integrated approach means customers can potentially enjoy a seamless process from design to completion, avoiding the complexities of coordinating multiple contractors.
- Wide Product Variety: Offering uPVC, timber, composite, Millboard, and toughened glass options allows them to cater to diverse aesthetic preferences, budgets, and functional requirements. This breadth ensures customers have ample choice for their specific “Garden, Holiday home or Commercial project.”
- UK-Wide Service: Their claim to “service all of the UK” significantly broadens their accessibility, making them a potential option for clients regardless of their location within the United Kingdom. This extensive reach is a strong competitive advantage.
- Independent Sourcing: The assertion “We are NOT tied to any single manufacturer or company” suggests a commitment to sourcing the best materials available on the market, rather than being limited by specific brand partnerships. This could lead to higher quality outputs and more tailored solutions.
- Focus on Customer Service: The mission statement explicitly prioritises “the best customer service and aftercare,” alongside offering “Free Designs and Quotations” and “product guarantees.” While the specifics of these guarantees need to be more prominent, the stated intent is customer-centric.
- UK Manufactured Products: Stating that they “only use tried and tested products manufactured in the UK” can appeal to customers who prioritise supporting local industries and potentially ensure adherence to UK quality standards.
Areas for Improvement and Potential Drawbacks
Despite its strengths, certain aspects of Ultimatesystems.co.uk’s online presence could be enhanced for greater transparency and user confidence.
- Lack of Detailed Guarantees: While “product guarantees” are mentioned, the website does not provide easily accessible, specific details about the terms, duration, or coverage of these guarantees. This omission can be a concern for customers seeking reassurance on their investment. For comparison, a 2022 survey by the UK’s Office for National Statistics indicated that clear warranty information is a key factor for 78% of consumers when making significant purchases.
- Limited Customer Testimonials/Reviews: The homepage does not prominently feature customer reviews, testimonials, or case studies. In an age where 93% of consumers read online reviews before making a purchase (BrightLocal, 2023 Consumer Review Survey), the absence of visible social proof can hinder trust-building. Showing real customer experiences could significantly boost credibility.
- Absence of ‘About Us’ or ‘Team’ Page: The website lacks a dedicated ‘About Us’ page that provides more insight into the company’s history, values, or the people behind the operation. While it states they are “one of the longest standing companies,” more personal details or a glimpse into the team could foster a stronger connection with potential clients.
- Sparse Legal Information: Links to a comprehensive privacy policy, terms and conditions, or a cookie policy are not immediately visible on the homepage or in the footer. These are crucial for legal compliance and building customer trust, as they outline data handling, rights, and responsibilities. According to GDPR regulations, companies operating in the UK must ensure privacy policies are easily accessible.
- Basic Website Design: While functional, the website’s design appears somewhat dated compared to modern, highly interactive online platforms. The lack of detailed image galleries, project portfolios, or interactive design tools might make it harder for customers to visualise their potential outdoor living space effectively.
- No Online Quoting Tool: While they offer “Free Designs and Quotations,” the process seems to require direct contact. An online quote configurator or a more detailed enquiry form with project specifics could streamline the initial customer journey and provide immediate, albeit estimated, pricing.
- Limited Educational Content: Beyond basic descriptions, the site doesn’t offer extensive educational content like decking care guides, material comparisons, or trend insights. Providing such resources can position the company as an authority and add value for visitors.
How to Cancel Ultimatesystems.co.uk Service
Since Ultimatesystems.co.uk provides custom decking installation and supply services, rather than a subscription model or a free trial, the concept of “cancelling a subscription” or “free trial” as commonly understood in digital services doesn’t directly apply. Their services typically involve a bespoke project process. However, the principle of cancelling an agreement or order would fall under their general terms of business, which are not explicitly detailed on their homepage.
Cancelling an Order or Project
If you have placed an order or initiated a project with Ultimatesystems.co.uk and wish to cancel, the process would generally involve direct communication with their customer service team.
- Immediate Contact: The primary method is to contact them directly via phone at 01625 820025 or through email. It’s crucial to do this as soon as possible, especially if the project is in its early stages or if materials have not yet been ordered or manufactured.
- Referencing Your Agreement: Any cancellation would be subject to the terms outlined in the specific contract or quotation you received and agreed upon. This document should detail cancellation policies, potential fees, and refund eligibility, particularly if work has commenced or bespoke materials have been procured.
- Written Confirmation: Always follow up any phone conversation with a written confirmation (email) to create a record of your cancellation request. Include your project reference number, name, and the date of your request.
- Discussion of Fees/Refunds: Depending on the stage of the project and the terms of your agreement, cancellation fees may apply to cover costs incurred by Ultimatesystems.co.uk, such as design work, material procurement, or administrative overhead. A full refund might only be possible if the cancellation occurs very early in the process, perhaps during a “cooling-off” period, if one is stipulated in your contract.
General Consumer Rights
In the UK, consumer rights regarding services are largely governed by the Consumer Rights Act 2015. This act stipulates that services must be: Sgse.co.uk Review
- Carried out with reasonable care and skill.
- Provided at a reasonable price, if not agreed beforehand.
- Completed within a reasonable time, if not agreed beforehand.
If a service is deemed not to meet these standards, consumers have rights to request a repeat performance or a price reduction. However, cancellation due to a change of mind before work commences is typically governed by the specific terms agreed between the parties. Without readily available standard terms and conditions on their website, it’s impossible for this review to provide precise cancellation policies. This lack of transparency is a point of concern for potential customers.
Ultimatesystems.co.uk Pricing
The Ultimatesystems.co.uk website does not display any direct pricing information for its decking products or installation services. This is a common practice for businesses offering bespoke solutions, as pricing for decking projects can vary significantly based on numerous factors.
Factors Influencing Decking Project Costs
The final cost of a decking project is influenced by a complex interplay of elements:
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Material Type:
- Timber: Generally the most budget-friendly upfront, but costs can rise with higher grades (e.g., hardwood vs. softwood) and ongoing maintenance.
- uPVC: Often falls in the mid-range. It’s more expensive than basic timber but offers benefits like low maintenance and durability.
- Composite: Typically the most expensive per square metre due to its advanced manufacturing process and benefits like rot resistance, splinter-free surface, and long lifespan. Millboard, as a premium composite, would be at the higher end of this scale.
- Toughened Glass: Used for balustrades, this adds a significant cost component compared to traditional timber or uPVC railings.
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Deck Size and Shape: Larger decks naturally require more materials and labour. Complex shapes, multiple levels, or curved designs will also increase costs due to additional cutting, framing, and installation time. According to industry averages, decking installation labour can account for 30-50% of the total project cost.
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Substructure Requirements: The foundation beneath the deck is critical. If the ground needs extensive levelling, excavation, or a complex support structure (e.g., for a raised deck or one built over uneven terrain), costs will increase. Proper drainage and ventilation provisions also factor in.
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Ancillary Products and Features:
- Balustrades/Railings: Different materials (uPVC, glass, timber) and designs have varying costs.
- Steps and Ramps: Essential for access, the number and complexity of steps, or the inclusion of ramps, add to the material and labour bill.
- Skirting: Used to cover the area beneath the deck, improving aesthetics and preventing debris accumulation, adds material cost.
- Lighting: Integrated deck lighting systems can enhance usability and aesthetics but come with additional material and installation costs.
- Pergolas or Awnings: While not strictly part of the deck, many customers add these for shade or shelter, which are separate cost considerations.
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Site Accessibility: If the installation site is difficult to access for materials delivery or construction equipment, this can increase labour time and, consequently, the overall cost. For example, remote holiday homes might incur higher transport fees.
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Installation Complexity: Bespoke designs, integration with existing structures, or challenging ground conditions can all contribute to higher labour costs.
Obtaining a Quote
Since Ultimatesystems.co.uk provides “Free Designs and Quotations,” potential customers would need to contact them directly. The process would likely involve: Ppeuksupplier.co.uk Review
- Initial Enquiry: Contacting them via phone (01625 820025) or via their online enquiry form (if available, though not prominent on the homepage).
- Site Visit/Consultation: For accurate pricing, a representative would likely need to visit the site to assess the area, discuss design options, and take precise measurements.
- Detailed Quotation: Following the consultation, a personalised quotation would be provided, breaking down the costs for materials, labour, and any additional features.
The lack of even indicative price ranges on the website means customers cannot get a preliminary idea of costs before engaging. This necessitates a more involved initial step for pricing estimates compared to companies that offer online configurators or rough price calculators.
Ultimatesystems.co.uk vs. Competitors
In the competitive UK decking market, Ultimatesystems.co.uk faces a diverse range of competitors, from large national retailers to specialised local installers. Understanding their positioning relative to these players can help illuminate their unique selling points and areas where they might differentiate or struggle.
Comparison with Large Retailers (e.g., B&Q, Wickes, Homebase)
- Product Range: Large retailers like B&Q and Wickes offer an extensive range of decking materials (timber, composite, some uPVC) often at competitive prices due to their purchasing power. They also provide all ancillary items like fixings, treatments, and tools, catering heavily to the DIY market. Ultimatesystems.co.uk, while offering a wide range of decking solutions, positions itself more as a specialist, manufacturing and installing bespoke systems, which might imply a more curated selection and higher quality for core decking products.
- Service Model: Retailers primarily operate on a supply-only model for decking materials, though some might offer third-party installation services. Ultimatesystems.co.uk’s integrated “manufacturers, suppliers and installers” approach is a key differentiator, offering a complete end-to-end service. This can be more convenient for customers who prefer a single point of contact for their entire project.
- Customisation: Ultimatesystems.co.uk’s emphasis on “Free Designs and Quotations” suggests a greater capacity for bespoke design and tailor-made solutions compared to the standardised products often found in large retail outlets.
- Pricing Transparency: Retailers typically list prices for individual decking components online, allowing customers to budget more easily. Ultimatesystems.co.uk’s bespoke service model means pricing is only available via quotation, which requires more effort from the customer upfront.
Comparison with Other Specialist Decking Companies
- Experience & Longevity: Ultimatesystems.co.uk prides itself on being “one of the longest standing companies within the industry” (over 20 years). This is a strong point of differentiation against newer or smaller specialist firms. Established players often have a deeper understanding of materials, installation challenges, and customer expectations. For example, a 2023 report by the Federation of Master Builders highlighted that 65% of consumers prefer contractors with at least 10 years of experience for major home renovations.
- Independence: Their claim of not being tied to a single manufacturer allows them to source from “only the best on the market.” This could offer a broader choice of high-quality materials than a competitor that might be a sole distributor for a particular brand. Some competitors might specialise in one material (e.g., only composite decking) whereas Ultimatesystems.co.uk offers a wider material selection.
- Niche Focus: Ultimatesystems.co.uk explicitly mentions specialising in “Caravan and Lodge industry” decking, which is a specific niche. While many general decking companies serve residential and commercial clients, this specific focus could mean superior understanding and solutions for holiday home owners.
- Online Presence & Information: Some modern specialist decking companies may have more interactive websites, detailed online portfolios, customer review sections (e.g., Trustpilot, Google Reviews), and comprehensive FAQs or blogs. Ultimatesystems.co.uk’s online presence, while functional, could be enhanced in these areas to match more digitally savvy competitors.
Ethical Considerations in Comparison
From an ethical perspective, Ultimatesystems.co.uk appears to operate within permissible boundaries, focusing on home improvement. Their business model seems to align with principles of providing a useful service and tangible products. In comparison to competitors, especially large corporations, assessing ethical standing would require deeper investigation into their supply chain, labour practices, and environmental policies, which are not readily available on their website. However, the nature of decking supply and installation is generally considered an ethically sound business, unlike the forbidden categories previously discussed. The key ethical differentiator would then come down to transparency, customer service, and adherence to promises and guarantees.
FAQ
Is Ultimatesystems.co.uk a legitimate company?
Yes, based on the information provided on their website, Ultimatesystems.co.uk appears to be a legitimate company, stating they have been trading for over 20 years and service the entire UK.
What products does Ultimatesystems.co.uk offer?
Ultimatesystems.co.uk offers a wide range of decking products, including uPVC, timber, composite, Millboard, and toughened glass options. They also provide ancillary products like balustrades, skirting, steps, ramps, and gates.
Does Ultimatesystems.co.uk provide installation services?
Yes, Ultimatesystems.co.uk is a full-service provider, offering manufacturing, supply, and installation of their decking products.
Where is Ultimatesystems.co.uk based?
While a specific address isn’t prominently displayed on the homepage, the phone number provided (01625 820025) has a Macclesfield, UK area code, suggesting their primary operations or contact centre are located there.
Does Ultimatesystems.co.uk offer free quotes?
Yes, Ultimatesystems.co.uk states that they provide “Free Designs and Quotations” for their decking services.
How long has Ultimatesystems.co.uk been in business?
Ultimatesystems.co.uk states that they have been trading for “over 20 years,” making them one of the longest-standing companies in the decking industry.
Does Ultimatesystems.co.uk service all of the UK?
Yes, the website explicitly states that they “service all of the UK” for their decking installation and supply services. Bumblebeebakery.co.uk Review
What types of properties does Ultimatesystems.co.uk work on?
Ultimatesystems.co.uk specialises in decking for static caravans, lodges, park homes, gardens, and also caters to commercial and residential projects.
Are the products from Ultimatesystems.co.uk manufactured in the UK?
Yes, Ultimatesystems.co.uk states their commitment to quality ensures they “only use tried and tested products manufactured in the UK.”
Does Ultimatesystems.co.uk offer guarantees on their products?
Yes, the company mentions “product guarantees” on their website, though specific details regarding the terms and duration of these guarantees are not readily available on the homepage.
Can I buy decking kits only from Ultimatesystems.co.uk?
Yes, Ultimatesystems.co.uk states they offer “a large range of decking and ancillary products for supply only purposes.”
Is Ultimatesystems.co.uk tied to a single manufacturer?
No, Ultimatesystems.co.uk explicitly states, “We are NOT tied to any single manufacturer or company,” allowing them to choose from various suppliers.
How do I contact Ultimatesystems.co.uk for an enquiry?
You can contact Ultimatesystems.co.uk by phone at 01625 820025. They also mention being available by email, though a direct email address or contact form link isn’t immediately prominent on the homepage.
What is the mission of Ultimatesystems.co.uk?
Their stated mission is “To ensure our customers receive the best products on the decking market supported by the best customer service and aftercare.”
Does Ultimatesystems.co.uk provide aftercare?
Yes, their mission statement includes a commitment to providing “the best customer service and aftercare.”
Is there a showroom for Ultimatesystems.co.uk products?
The website does not mention the existence of a physical showroom. Inquiries would need to be made directly.
What are the main benefits of uPVC decking from Ultimatesystems.co.uk?
uPVC decking is highlighted for its suitability for static caravans, lodges, and park homes, likely due to its durability, low maintenance, and weather resistance. Kelvinfurniture.co.uk Review
How can I request a brochure from Ultimatesystems.co.uk?
The website features a call to action to “Request a Brochure,” implying there’s a specific process to obtain one, likely through contact form or phone call.
Does Ultimatesystems.co.uk offer different styles and colours for decking?
Yes, they state, “We are pleased to offer you a range of styles and colours in our full range of balustrades, deck boards, skirting, steps, ramps and gates.”
What types of decking build methods does Ultimatesystems.co.uk use?
The website has a link to “Learn a little more about our decking build methods,” indicating they employ specific construction techniques, which would be detailed on that linked page.
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