8 Best Timbers for Timber Decking in Melbourne

Decks are common features in Melbourne properties. They provide occupants with an outdoor entertainment area which can be used for family gatherings, catching up with friends or hosting a party to celebrate a special occasion. A decking can be installed to accompany both traditional and modern homes and offers a space outside the home that is open to the environment.

Decks can be designed to suit any style. You can design decks to be raised or blend in with the surrounding landscaping. Decks can be built around garden features and helps create a space between the grassed areas and the home. Since nothing beats the look of natural timber that is treated and painted or stained for the best look and finish, it is important to choose the right timber for your deck.

Here are the 8 best timbers for timber decking in Melbourne.

1. Treated pine

Treated pine is a common decking timber. It looks great and suits both modern and period homes. Given it is comparatively cheaper compared to other timbers, it is favoured by those on a strict budget. Treated pine can be used in both indoor and outdoor decking applications. It likes to be stained or painted so that its natural features can be preserved. Depending on the H-rating, it can withstand harsh conditions and be used in environments where it is wet and humid.

2. Spotted gum

Another popular decking timber is spotted gum. It is commonly used in bushfire prone areas for its heat resistant properties. The timber has a great colour ranging from a pale brown to a chocolate brown with a hint of red. When oiled, the timber offers a beautiful colour that complements the environment. Spotted gum does not bleed like other timbers and shrinks less during the cooler months. As a hardwood, it offers a solid base for a new deck.

3. Jarrah

Jarrah is a hardwood that offers an amazing spectrum of colours, ranging from light to dark brown. Comparatively more expensive than its counterparts, a jarrah deck shows a touch of class. Like spotted gum, jarrah is a hardwood that is durable and reliable under all weather conditions (provided it is sealed and maintained over time). Jarrah is also fire-resistant making it a suitable candidate in bushfire prone areas.

4. Blackbutt

An Australian native timber, blackbutt is a fire-resistant timber. To ensure that the timber does not check over time, it is recommended to seal the timber following installation. Offering a pale brown colour that is fairly consistent across the species, blackbutt is a very durable hardwood timber that offers extraordinary structural integrity.

5. Merbau

Once a common timber installed in many Australian properties, Merbau still retains its popularity today. This timber is loved by Australians because it has a high durability rating, resists rot and withstands insects (including termites). Merbau is a common building material and it is known for its inherent quality and reliability. Its durability makes it ideal for installations where there are harsh temperatures, salt waters and extreme conditions.

6. Ironbark

Ironbark is a high density and heavy timber that will last a lifetime. With its clear interlocking grain, there is often very little natural features. Ranging from deep brown to deep red, ironbark is a common addition to properties in areas where there are strong environmental fluctuations. It is also installed around pool areas where there is a high moisture rating. In addition to its durability, ironbark is highly rot, termite and fire resistant.

7. Stringybark

This type of timber is ideal for indoor decks. With a comparatively lower durability rating, it will not be suitable for outdoor areas with variable environmental patterns. With its natural features including wormholes and gum veins, this timber will be susceptible to the elements. Colours range between a white, yellow and red offering a variety of choice to suit the property’s character.

8. Cypress pine

A versatile and hardy timber, cypress pine is distinguishable for its yellow and dark brown or black colour with various knots. Cypress pine is usually installed where termites are present because it resists their destruction. With a very high durability rating, the timber will withstand high traffic and wear. Provided the timber is oiled and sealed over time, it will not check or experience any damage.

At Australian Treated Pine, we sell quality timbers for decking Melbourne. We are a decking supplier Melbourne that sell decking products including sustainable decking timber. Buy decking online today, call us on (03) 9305 2000 or visit us in-store.

Timber Decking FAQs

What lengths does decking timber come in?

Decking timbers are available in a range of lengths. Depending on the supplier, you might be able to acquire timbers ranging between 0.8 and 6.6 meters a piece. Different lengths of timber help to tailor the construction of your deck to suit your requirements.

Is it hard to build a deck yourself?

It is not hard to build a deck. With the right tools, motivation and effort you can create your own deck without engaging a professional. Remember to read up on building a deck and consulting with family, friends and colleagues.

How many footings do I need for a deck?

The number of footings for a deck depends on the size of the deck. It is common to place footings 1.2 metres apart for a rigid frame which will create a sturdy deck.

What size wood should I use for decking frame?

The size of the wood for the decking’s frame should be approximately 140 x 45 mm using treated pine. This will provide a solid frame that will not buckle or deform under stress or due to the weather. Make sure you select the appropriate H-rating for treated pine.