Brisbane Decks and Renovations

The price per square metre for basic timber decking in Australia ranges from $100 to $350, depending on materials. Hardwoods like Merbau or Spotted Gum cost $250 to $350 per sqm. Treated pine is cheaper at $100 to $200 per sqm. Composite decking starts at $150 per sqm.

The total cost depends on the deck size. A 20 sqm Merbau deck could cost $5,000 to $7,000. A 15 sqm treated pine deck might be $1,500 to $3,000. Labour averages $50 to $100 per sqm. Other factors like site conditions, access, demolitions and council approvals can also impact the overall price. Extras like stairs, balustrades and lighting add more. With the right design and quote comparison, DeckStar can install an affordable, durable timber deck to suit your budget and lifestyle.

Under the Queensland Development Code (1975), approval is needed if the deck exceeds certain dimensions. This includes an overall height over 2.4m, a floor height over 1m above ground level, any side longer than 5m, or a mean height over 2.1m. Mean height is the deck’s total elevation area divided by its horizontal length. Ground level refers to the finished surface when the lot was created. Approval is also required if the deck attaches to another structure, rather than being freestanding. Exempt decks under 2.4m high don’t need approval if they meet requirements for location, materials and loading. Regardless of approval, all decks must comply with relevant standards. Checking your council’s specific policy is advised. With the right design, Queenslanders can often build a legal deck to enhance their lifestyle without approval delays.

Most patio additions require council approval before building. The main exception is for small, low-roofed structures under 2.4m high (2.1m mean height), 10 sqm in area, less than 5m long and not within setback zones. These exempt patios avoid the approval process. Larger patios, higher roofs, patios attached to other buildings or exceeding setbacks typically need full council approval. This involves submitting detailed plans, gaining approvals and scheduling inspections. Using qualified contractors familiar with regulations is advisable. While approval takes time, it ensures patio additions meet building codes and zoning requirements.

For beauty and durability, hardwoods like Ironbark, Spotted Gum, or Kwila are top choices. These resist splitting, warping and decay. Treated pine is budget-friendly but requires regular sealing and stain refreshers. Cypress pine offers a compromise with some hardness and affordability. Composite decking is splinter-free and needs less maintenance but costs more upfront. Optimal decking depends on priorities and maintenance expectations. Those wanting easy-care composite or pine can upgrade with hardwood accents. DeckStar can help you navigate the choices and comply with building code requirements.

When it comes to Australian hardwood flooring, some of the most popular species include Blackbutt, Spotted Gum, Sydney Blue Gum, Ironbark and Tallowwood. These hardwoods are prized for their rich colours, distinctive grain patterns and longevity. Blackbutt features a pale brown tone with occasional dark mineral streaks. Spotted Gum lives up to its name with a pale base punctuated by chocolate flecks. Sydney Blue Gum shows attractive contrast between reddish heartwood and pale sapwood. Tallowwood and Ironbark are darker browns revered for hardness.

When building a pool deck in Queensland, the decking material requires durability, slip resistance and water resilience. Hardwoods, like Spotted Gum or Ironbark, provide strength while handling humidity. Their natural oils offer some water resistance too. Thermally modified woods add stability. However, bare hardwood can be slippery when wet. Refreshed coatings help improve traction. Composites like plastic-wood blends don’t warp and resist moisture well. Ipe (Brazilian walnut), is a premium tropical hardwood gaining popularity for pool decks. It boasts exceptional density, hardness, and natural slip resistance. This makes it very durable and stable in wet pool environments. Other oily tropical woods like Massaranduba, Tigerwood, and Cumaru offer similar benefits. Their high oil content provides some innate water resistance as well. Tropical hardwoods are also less prone to splintering than traditional deck woods. Their natural traction helps prevent slips on wet decking. Proper sealing and ventilation is still required for optimal performance.

Installing deck stairs and balustrades in Queensland requires meeting specific building standards. Balustrades must be at least 1 metre tall on any deck exceeding 1 metre in height. Decks over 4 metres high need unclimbable balustrade infill with gaps less than 125mm. Stair flights can have a maximum of 18 risers before requiring a landing, barrier or 90-degree change in direction. Landings or directional changes are also needed every 36 stairs. Stair treads must run the full width of the stairs and have slip-resistant, visually contrasting nosings.