Decking Adelaide

Timber, composite, merbau, modwood. Low-level patios, elevated decks, pool surrounds, alfresco floors. The deck is often the most-used outdoor surface — pick the wrong material and you’ll regret it for 20 years.

What’s involved

Timber vs composite — the honest comparison

Timber (merbau, blackbutt, spotted gum) costs $200–$350 per square metre installed. Looks beautiful for two years, then needs annual oiling to stay that way. Composite (Trex, Modwood, Brio) costs $300–$500 installed. Looks the same in year ten as year one. The maintenance gap closes the price gap over a decade.

Subframe matters more than the boards

AS 1684 timber framing standard. Bearers, joists, and posts sized for the span and load. Stainless or hot-dipped galvanised fixings. A cheap subframe under good boards is a fail in five years.

Pool deck specifics

Saltwater + chlorine eat fixings. Stainless 316 minimum. Composite that’s slip-rated for wet zones. Drainage gaps spec’d to the standard (3-6mm).

Frequently asked

Composite or timber decking?

Composite if you don’t want annual maintenance and you’re staying long-term. Timber if you love the look and don’t mind oiling once a year. Merbau is the best-value timber for Adelaide conditions.

How much does decking cost in Adelaide?

Timber decking $200–$350 per square metre installed. Composite $300–$500. Pool decks at the upper end.

Do I need a permit for a deck?

Decks under 30cm high without a roof generally don’t need approval. Higher decks, attached decks, or decks with structures over them almost always do.

Get a free quote

Request a free decking quote and we’ll forward your brief to two or three Adelaide trades. Itemised quotes back within 24 business hours.