Decking Sydney
We connect you with qualified decking builders across Sydney. Compare free quotes for timber and composite decking — from backyard entertaining areas to multi-level platforms.
Decking for Sydney’s Outdoor Lifestyle
Sydney’s climate is made for outdoor living, and a well-built deck is the foundation of any great entertaining area. Whether you want a simple ground-level platform off the back door, an elevated deck overlooking harbour views, or a wraparound pool deck, the right material and builder make all the difference.
The choice between timber and composite decking depends on your budget, maintenance preferences, and aesthetic goals. Both perform well in Sydney’s conditions when properly installed.
Timber Decking Options
Merbau (Kwila)
$450 - $650/m2The most popular hardwood decking in Sydney. Rich reddish-brown colour, naturally oily for weather resistance, excellent stability. Imported from Southeast Asia.
Spotted Gum
$550 - $800/m2Australian native hardwood with exceptional hardness (Janka 11.0). Distinctive wavy grain pattern, durability class 1. Sustainably sourced from Australian forests.
Blackbutt
$500 - $750/m2Lighter in colour with a pale honey tone. Excellent fire resistance rating (BAL-29 compliant), making it ideal for bushfire-prone Sydney fringe areas.
Treated Pine
$300 - $450/m2The budget option. H3-treated for above-ground use. Requires regular staining and maintenance. Best suited to ground-level decks and low-visibility areas.
Composite Decking
Composite decking has surged in popularity across Sydney, driven by its zero-maintenance appeal. Made from recycled wood fibres and plastic polymers, composite boards will not splinter, warp, rot, or require oiling. They maintain their colour for decades with nothing more than occasional hosing.
Leading brands available in Sydney include Trex (USA), ModWood (Australian-made), NewTechWood, Ekodeck, and CleverDeck. Prices range from $500 to $1,100 per square metre installed, with the variation reflecting board thickness, capping technology, and warranty length (typically 25 years).
Council Approval for Decking
In NSW, decks over 600mm above the existing ground level typically require either a Complying Development Certificate (CDC) or a Development Application (DA). Ground-level decks under 600mm are generally exempt development but must still comply with setback rules, site coverage limits, and bushfire requirements where applicable.
The decking builders in our network are familiar with Sydney council requirements and can advise on what approvals your project needs before work begins.
Decking Cost Summary
| Material | Cost/m2 Installed | Maintenance |
|---|---|---|
| Treated Pine | $300 - $450 | Annual staining |
| Merbau | $450 - $650 | Annual oiling |
| Spotted Gum | $550 - $800 | Annual oiling |
| Blackbutt | $500 - $750 | Annual oiling |
| Composite (standard) | $500 - $750 | None (hose wash) |
| Composite (premium) | $750 - $1,100 | None (hose wash) |
* All costs are indicative only. Actual costs depend on deck size, height, subframe complexity, site access, and material selection.
Frequently Asked Questions
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