Timber decking can create an attractive extension to the home and makes a beautiful transition from inside to outside. When well executed, timber decking looks excellent and really does add value to a property.

When you investigate where timber decking is used, the answers are as varied as people, properties and landscape. It is used around above-ground pools, spas, under pergolas, around ponds and water features, alfresco dining areas and of course upper storey decks (to name just a few).

Is It Really Timber?

Timber decking may not necessarily made from timber these days, in fact more and more frequently they are made from a mixture of materials including:

• PVC decking: This is a wonderful material that prevents splitting, rotting, white-ant attack, and splinters. They require no painting, varnishing or coatings of any sort and they are UV resistant. They come in a range of traditional and unusual colours and are manufactured with textured or natural wood grain finish.
• Composite decking: This material is made of recycled plastics and various other recycled materials before being formed into decking, with a variety of wood-grain finishes or slip-resistant surface patterns.
• Aluminium decking: A durable metal that is mostly used in fire-prone areas as it will not burn, and also by the sea where traditional decking is at risk from salt spray.

Timber Decking Cautions

Timber decking can be obtained from any hardware store or floor supplier, but before you take on this challenge for yourself, unless you are experienced, there are some traps that the average DIY-er can so easily fall into when installing timber decking.

Installing Timber Decking

Installing timber decking is a specialised task best left to professionals. There are also regulations governing decking, including:

• Did you know that you need to get local council approval before erecting any permanent structure in your garden? The design needs to be approved and so do all the materials.
• Are you aware that many coastal councils are now demanding that foundations be cyclone rated – even in areas that are not routinely get cyclones?
• Do you know what the optimum distance between stumps or foundation supports? Too few and you will find that your new decking will be “bouncy” to walk on – not an easily rectified situation.

Talk to a decking professional about your plans and get some considered beforehand.