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Which Timber Is Best For Decking?

Several timber species are commonly used for decking, each with its advantages and considerations. Some of the popular options include:

• Merbau: Also known as Kwila, Merbau is a dense hardwood native to Southeast Asia. It's prized for its durability, resistance to decay, and natural oils that make it resistant to pests and rot. Merbau has a rich reddish-brown colour that darkens over time if left untreated. However, its popularity has raised concerns about sustainability and environmental impact.


• Spotted Gum: Indigenous to Australia, Spotted Gum is a hardwood species known for its strength, durability, and attractive grain patterns. It ranges in colour from pale to dark brown, often featuring characteristic dark flecks that give it its name. Spotted Gum is highly resistant to decay and termite attacks, making it suitable for outdoor applications like decking.


• Blackbutt: Another Australian native hardwood, Blackbutt is valued for its strength, durability, and fire resistance. It has a uniform pale brown to light yellowish-brown colour with a straight grain. Blackbutt is relatively easy to work with and maintains its appearance well over time, making it a popular choice for decking in Australia.


• Jarrah: Indigenous to Western Australia, Jarrah is a dense hardwood known for its rich red-brown colour and exceptional durability. It has a natural resistance to decay, rot, and termites, making it suitable for outdoor applications like decking. Jarrah's density can make it harder to work with, but it offers a beautiful finish and long-lasting performance.


• Ironbark: Ironbark encompasses several species of Eucalyptus trees native to Australia. It's renowned for its extreme hardness, durability, and resistance to decay, termites, and fire. Ironbark ranges in colour from pale brown to deep red, often with dark streaks. While its hardness can make it challenging to work with, Ironbark decking offers unmatched longevity and resilience.

When choosing the best timber for decking, consider factors such as durability, resistance to decay and pests, maintenance requirements, sustainability, and aesthetic preferences. Additionally, ensure that the timber you select complies with local regulations and sustainability standards to minimize environmental impact.

Why is Timber Decking A Good Option?

Timber decking offers a timeless, natural look that enhances the beauty of outdoor spaces. Here are a few reasons that make it a good choice for decking:

• It can be easily customized to fit various shapes, sizes, and design preferences.


• High-quality timber decking is resistant to wear, weather, and insect damage, ensuring long-term performance.


• Timber decking is an environmentally friendly material.


• Cleaning and sealing are usually all that's needed to keep timber decking looking great for years.


• Timber decking remains comfortable underfoot, even in hot weather, making it ideal for barefoot walking.


• It adds value to your property and can offer a high return on investment when properly installed and maintained.


• Timber decking can be easily combined with other materials like stone or metal for unique design elements.


• Timber decking can be refinished or repaired at lower costs if needed, extending its lifespan and reducing waste.


• Wood has natural insulating properties, helping to keep outdoor areas cooler in summer and warmer in winter.

How Much Does Timber Decking Cost

Timber decking prices vary according to the kind of wood, deck size, installation difficulty, and location. You should budget between $30 and $60 per square foot on average for materials and installation. Custom designs or higher-end choices can be outside of this range.

• Type of Wood: Different species of timber come at varying price points. For instance, exotic hardwoods like teak or ipe tend to be more expensive compared to domestic softwoods like pine or cedar.


• Quality and Grade: Within each type of wood, there are different grades available, ranging from premium to standard. Higher-grade timber typically comes with a higher price tag due to better aesthetics, fewer knots, and superior durability.


• Deck Configuration and Features: The complexity of the deck design, including factors like multiple levels, built-in seating, railings, stairs, and decorative features, will affect the overall cost.


• Site Preparation: Preparing the site for deck installation may involve clearing vegetation, levelling the ground, or even pouring concrete footings. The condition of the site and any necessary preparatory work can add to the total cost.

Considering these factors alongside your specific preferences and requirements will help you develop a more accurate estimate of timber decking costs for your project. It's advisable to consult with multiple contractors and suppliers to compare quotes and ensure you're getting the best value for your investment.

What To Consider While Installing Timber Decking

Wood decking can improve your outside area. You should consider the following while installing timber decking:

• Local council approval: You may need permission for the design & materials before building anything permanent in your garden, such as decking.


• Requirements of the coastal council: To maintain structural goodness, coastal locations may require cyclone-rated foundations; even in the absence of frequent storms.


• Safety requirements: The appropriate spacing between stumps or foundation supports is very important. If there are too few, the deck may become bouncy and be difficult to level.


• Expert consultation: Consult with decking specialists to go over your ideas. Experts or professionals know different kinds of decking. Because of knowledge and experience, they can advise you.