Decking FAQ

Ultimately, your decision hinges on aesthetics. Once factors like local weather patterns and location of the deck are considered, your final choice will depend on the style a certain timber provides. You might prefer the look of a deep red merbau deck, or perhaps you prefer the lighter tones of pine decking. 

We recommend only using treated timber for your deck frame; joists, posts and bearers. The decking boards can be left untreated if they are cleaned and oiled regularly. However, using treated boards will dramatically lengthen their lifespan.  

Composite decks are always a great decision if you prefer to steer away from natural wood. Composite decking also boasts the quality of lower maintenance requirements due to no need for oiling, washing or sanding.  

Hardwood decking with a Durability Class rating of 1 is the best choice for spaces that receive abundant sunlight or minimal shade. Discover more about timber durability ratings.  

The most common size for decking boards in Australia is 86x19. This size provides a uniform and cohesive look to your timber deck. 

Decking can be bought either in set lengths or random lengths. However random lengths are the most common due to timber being a natural product. When buying decking boards in lineal meter (LM) increments you will receive decking lengths that vary so we recommend you factor a wastage allowance when buying boards in case you need to cut some to your desired length. Our decking calculator can help calculate this for you. You can also find decking boards in set lengths ranging from 1800 to 5400 (mm). 

We recommend a 3mm (about 0.12 in) or larger gap between your decking boards to allow for the natural expansion and contraction of timber. Though experienced carpenters will often use a nail as spacer, best practice is to use deck spacers to provide a uniform gap throughout. You can find deck spacers in 4mm, 6mm and 10mm sizes to suit your needs. 

With a traditional deck frame the Australian standard says the joists should be spaced between 450mm and 600mm apart, and the larger the spacing, the wider the deck boards need to be. 

For decks in exposed environments a 4:1 ratio is needed for the size of the decking boards. Sizes such as 140x35 and 90x19 fit this requirement. These sizes provide the right thickness to withstand cupping and warping due to moisture. Other decking sizes such as 135x19 that have a 7:1 ratio are only suitable for enclosed environments, as the board is not thick enough to withstand moisture. Discover more about building a ground deck in exposed environments.

We recommend regularly sweeping debris from your deck and washing it once every six months. You should also apply a protective sealant annually to prevent weathering and ensure long-term durability. 

The lifespan of a timber deck depends on factors such as wood species, climate, and maintenance. In general, a hardwood deck that is well-maintained with reduced exposure to the harsh elements will last 20 years or more – however this is only a guideline as factors like species, substrate and regional climate all influence the lifetime. Neglect and harsh weather conditions can shorten the deck's longevity. 

Exposure to extreme weather, such as heavy rain, intense sunlight, or freezing temperatures, can lead to expansion, contraction, warping, and decay of the timber. Choosing the right timber species and adequate maintenance help to mitigate these effects. 

Decking problems like warping and cracking stem from inadequate maintenance or unfavorable conditions like moisture and mould. Regularly check under the deck after wet weather to prevent water pooling and moisture buildup. Additionally, ensure proper installation of decking screws to avoid undue pressure and stress cracks on the boards. 

Whether to install timber decking yourself or hire a professional carpenter depends on your DIY skills and the complexity of the project.

If you have experience, tools, and confidence, DIY can be cost-effective. However, for intricate designs or if you don’t have any carpentry experience, hiring a professional not only ensures a well-executed, durable installation but also provides a safer and secure deck. 

The ripple is designed to be the underside of the decking board. It allows air to flow freely beneath the boards which helps to mitigate damage caused due to moisture buildup. Therefore, always place the ripple on your decking boards facing down. 

We suggest pre-oiling the decking before installation, making sure to cover all faces, edges and ends to minimize moisture penetration. For the first treatment, applying three coats of a high-quality decking oil is recommended to ensure long-lasting protection. 

To get a quote, simply add your timber decking and decking hardware to your cart. Once in your cart, select ‘Get Quote’, input your details and we will send you an instant quote for your materials right through to your email. Our Customer Care Team are always happy to provide a quote over the phone, by email, or in person at Narangba Timbers. 

We stock every item required for building a deck and can deliver it right to your driveway. When it comes to working out what's needed for your deck, that will need to be left to the professional carpenter or designer managing the project. Once you know what you need, we're your one-stop-shop. 

While we stock timber for flooring, decking, fencing, structural, landscaping and cladding, we also stock the hardware and building supplies needed to complete your timber deck, like cement, screws and decking oil. 

Absolutely you can! Our Decking Showroom is built with display walls full of all the different types of timber decking we stock. You can look, feel and envisage your timber deck right from our Narangba, Brisbane location.