Frequently Asked Questions
- Spotted gum
- Teak
- Blackbutt
- Grey Ironbark
- Merbau
These are the top hardwoods suited to the Australian weather.
Most standard decks are completed within one to three weeks. Larger or more complex projects — elevated decks, multi-level builds, or those requiring engineering approval — may take up to four weeks. We’ll give you a clear timeline before we start.
We always use screws. Unlike nails, screws grip the timber tightly, won’t work loose over time, and significantly reduce the risk of boards lifting or becoming a trip hazard. It’s a small detail that makes a real difference to long-term safety and appearance.
- Apply a brush-on wood preservative (copper naphthenate formulas available at home centers, lumber dealers, and hardware stores) to all field-cut ends of boards and drilled holes. Deck sealants and stains don’t offer enough defense.
- When installing, butt the boards firmly together because they will somewhat decrease in thickness and width as they dry out.
- To help avoid splitting, pre-drill holes at the ends of the boards.
- To enhance holding performance, use screws.
- Screw fasteners into the wood surface flush. Never overtighten the fastener.
- In ground contact applications, install the uncut end of the support posts.
To ensure a longer life span, naturally durable wood species should be utilized in the construction of the deck. Using cultivars that have been pre-treated is also permissible. Note: The only treated wood that should be utilized for structural supports is grade 4. A minimum of 15 years should be provided by decking.
When establishing a deck, one must take into consideration swelling or expansion during a condition change. As a result, boards should be spaced 6 to 8 mm apart from one another (depending on the moisture content at deck placement time). This keeps dirt from building up between the boards and permits water runoff. Because wider boards are more susceptible to weather changes than narrower boards, board size should also be considered.