How Much Does Hardwood Timber Decking Cost?

How Much Does Hardwood Timber Decking Cost in Australia?

There are few things more quintessentially Australian than the backyard deck. It is the stage for our summer BBQs, the foundation of our indoor-outdoor living culture, and a feature that adds significant value and aesthetic appeal to any property. While there are many materials available today—from treated pine to modern composites hardwood timber decking remains the gold standard for many homeowners. Its natural warmth, incredible durability, and premium finish are unmatched.

However, planning a deck build involves more than just picking a nice shade of timber. It requires a clear understanding of the costs involved, from the raw materials to the structural framing and labour.

If you are considering upgrading your outdoor space, you are likely asking: How much does hardwood timber decking cost?

In this guide, we break down the costs associated with building a hardwood deck in Australia. We will cover material prices per square metre, labour rates, the factors that influence the final quote, and the long-term maintenance costs you need to plan for.

Typical Hardwood Timber Decking Price Ranges

The cost of a deck can vary wildly depending on whether you are doing a DIY project or hiring a licensed carpenter. However, to give you a realistic baseline for budgeting, we have compiled typical price ranges for installed hardwood decks (materials plus labour) in the current Australian market.

Generally speaking, a professionally installed hardwood deck in Australia will cost between $300 and $550+ per square metre, depending on the complexity and timber species.

Estimated Costs by Deck Size

Note: The "Timber only" price refers strictly to the decking boards. When you factor in the subfloor (bearers, joists, stumps), concrete, screws, and oil, the material cost typically doubles. The "Installed" ranges above account for full professional construction.

What’s Included in Hardwood Decking Costs?

When you receive a quote from a deck builder or landscaper, it is vital to understand exactly what you are paying for. A "cheap" quote might leave out essential elements, while a higher quote might be a turnkey solution.

Standard Inclusions

A reputable deck construction quote usually includes:

• Decking Boards: The hardwood timber itself (e.g., Spotted Gum, Merbau, Blackbutt, Ironbark).


• Structural Framework: The "skeleton" of the deck, usually made from H3 or H4 treated pine (bearers and joists) and galvanised stirrups or concrete stumps.


• Fasteners: High-quality stainless steel decking screws or hidden fixing clips.


• Labour: The cost of the carpenter or landscaping team to set out, frame, and lay the deck.


• Finishing: Initial sanding and the first coat of high-quality decking oil.


• Site Clean-up: Removal of offcuts and sawdust.

Common Exclusions (Ask Your Tradie)

Unless specified, quotes often exclude:

• Demolition: Removing an old deck or concrete slab.


• Balustrades and Handrails: These are often priced per lineal metre separate from the deck floor.


• Stairs: Steps are labour-intensive and priced individually.


• Permits and Drafting: Council approval fees and architectural drawings.


• Excavation: If significant earthmoving is required to level the ground.


• Painting/Staining: Some builders leave the deck "raw" for you to oil yourself.

Key Cost Drivers for Hardwood Timber Decks

The hardwood timber decking cost Australia market is influenced by several specific variables.

1. Timber Species and Quality

In Australia, we categorize timber by durability classes (Class 1 being the most durable).

• Merbau: Generally the most affordable hardwood option; known for deep red colour but can "bleed" tannins.


• Spotted Gum: Australian native; incredibly dense, fire-resistant, and premium durability.


• Blackbutt: Premium native; blonde/honey colour, very fire-resistant.


• Jarrah/Ironbark: Premium, dense timbers that can be significantly more expensive due to scarcity.

2. Deck Size and Complexity

Simple rectangles are straightforward. However, designs including curves, multiple levels, picture-framing borders, or built-in planter boxes skyrocket labour time and result in more material waste.

3. Height Above Ground

• Ground-level decks: May require higher-rated timber (H4) for moisture protection and careful drainage.


• Elevated decks: Require engineered posts and bracing. Once over 1 metre high, balustrades become a legal requirement, adding significant cost.

4. Access and Site Conditions

Wide side gate access allows for fast work. Narrow, steep paths or rocky soil increase manual handling and excavation time.

5. Bushfire Attack Level (BAL) Ratings

In designated bushfire zones, Australian Standards may force the use of specific fire-resistant species like Spotted Gum or Ironbark, which are more expensive.

Cost Breakdown By Hardwood Deck Size

• Small Decks (~8–12 m²): Typical Range: $2,400 – $6,000. Higher cost per sqm due to minimum labour charges and setup.


• Medium Decks (~12–20 m²): Typical Range: $4,000 – $10,000. Standard suburban size; economies of scale begin to kick in.


• Large Decks (~20–30 m²): Typical Range: $8,000 – $16,000+. Transforms backyards into true outdoor rooms.


• Extra Large Decks (30 m²+): Typical Range: $12,000 – $20,000+. Significant structural framing required.

Hardwood Decking Materials Cost Only (Supplier Pricing)

Estimated costs for decking boards only (excluding subframe, screws, and concrete):

Pro Tip: Always order 10–15% extra timber to account for "waste" (offcuts) and defects.

Extras and Optional Costs That Add Up

When calculating your hardwood decking cost per m2, don't forget the finishing touches:

• Balustrades: Mandatory if over 1m high. Prices range from $150 (Timber) to $600+ (Glass) per metre.


• Stairs: Simple box steps (~$400) vs. long staircases with handrails ($1,500 – $3,000+).


• Deck Lighting: In-deck LED up-lights typically cost $150 – $200 per light installed.


• Skirting/Screening: Vertical/horizontal slats to hide the gap underneath ($100 – $200 per sqm).


• Roofing/Pergolas: Adds $3,000 – $10,000+ to the project.

Installation Labour: What You’re Paying For

Labour generally accounts for 50% to 60% of the total deck cost. Professional deck building is precision work, involving site set-out, digging footings, framing, pre-drilling, and laying boards.

Labour rates for licensed carpenters in Australia typically range from $70 to $120 per hour, or a fixed price for the project. Regional variance applies; metro areas like Sydney and Melbourne often command higher rates.

Hardwood Decking vs Other Decking Materials (Cost Comparison)

Maintenance Costs After Installation

Hardwood is a natural material that reacts to the Australian sun. To keep it from turning grey or cracking, it requires maintenance:

• Decking Oil: Re-apply every 6–12 months. A 10L tin costs $200 – $250.


• Deck Cleaner: ~$30 – $50 per year.


• Sanding: Every 3–5 years to strip back and refresh ($30 – $60 per m² if professional).

Plan for $200 – $400 per year in DIY materials for a medium-sized deck.

How to Get Accurate Hardwood Decking Quotes

• Provide a Plan: Even a rough sketch with dimensions helps.


• Choose Your Timber Early: Price differences between species are significant.


• Ask for Itemisation: Separate labour and materials.


• Check Inclusions: Ask about old paver removal or initial oiling.


• Verify Credentials: Ensure your carpenter is licensed and insured.


• Get Three Quotes: Compare to ensure fair market pricing.

Final Thoughts: Is Hardwood Decking Worth the Cost?

Building a hardwood deck is a significant investment, with most projects costing between $6,000 and $12,000. While more expensive than treated pine and requiring more maintenance than composite, the natural beauty and structural rigidity are unmatched. It creates an incredible outdoor living space and adds genuine value to your property.

For those looking for a feature that will stand the test of time, hardwood timber decking remains the premier choice.