Top Decks

Decks are now being designed as an extension of living areas. It’s where the indoors meet the outdoors and is an essential part of the Australian lifestyle.
Of course, as an extension of a home’s living area, a deck should reflect its owners’ personalities. On top of that, it needs to suit the activities it will be used for. Design the deck to work with you.
If summer is a time when doors are thrown open and the family lives outside as much as they live in, consider bi-fold doors to extend the entertainment area seamlessly. If night-time parties are popular, incorporate outdoor lighting into the design. In-built seating and tables, extra storage and even barbecues can be planned and built into the design.

Drawing up Plans

Positioning deck facing north is in the best position for sunshine all year round. But we aren’t all lucky enough to have a north-facing yard. If that’s the case, think about heating around the deck area. If the deck is in full sun, a shaded area could offer some protection from summer heat. Consider neighbours as well. If the deck will be overlooked by prying eyes, lattice screens or some clever planting of trees and shrubs can provide privacy.

Railings are a safety feature of any deck, but that doesn’t mean they have to detract from the overall look. Style them to suit. And if small children will be out on the deck, consider planning an enclosed area for them, or incorporate childproof gates at the top of stairs.

Types of Timber

Timber used for decks must be treated for weatherproofing.

Softwood such as pine, has low durability unless it’s weatherproofed. But buy it chemically treated to use for decking and pergolas. In fact, treated softwood, usually pine, is the most cost-effective, popular timber. Bear in mind that timber used for ground posts should be stronger and more resilient than timber used for the floor.

Hardwood is generally more expensive than softwood but is the strongest choice for decking timber. Naturally resilient to insect damage and usually possessing a richer hue than softwood, it can be difficult to treat although the natural durability means it will stand the test of time. It’s best if hardwood is pre-seasoned (usually kiln-dried). Varieties to use include Bartu and Jarrah. As with softwood, protect hardwood by staining regularly with decking oil or timber stain.

Synthetics can be used for decking instead of natural timber. Compressed sheeting is a synthetic option that is durable, cost-effective and waterproof, and it can be covered with any finishing material.

Structure of decking also requires planning. Supporting bearers and joists need ventilation provided by minimum ground clearance. If the walls below the deck are enclosed, sub-floor ventilators are needed. Ground clearance must be increased where the deck is to be constructed in a termite-prone area. These requirements are regulated in the Building Code of Australia. View it at selected libraries nationwide.

Water Weight If any kind of water feature is planned as part of the design, the structure of the deck must be reinforced to support the extra weight. If this is done, a spa could be incorporated into the deck. It may also be worth considering setting the spa on a concrete slab and building the deck around it to save the hassle and cost of reinforcing the structure. This method can also be used for building a deck around a tree – just make sure there is enough space left for it to grow.