Five things to consider before building a deck

1. Assess bush fire prone areas

Living in a bush fire-prone region requires careful consideration of building materials and may limit the type of decking products you can use.  Australian Standard 3959 classifies bushfire prone areas into different Bushfire Attack Levels known as BAL and dictate the types of materials that can be used in each area. It’s imperative to know your local BAL when selecting your decking materials to ensure compliance with the National Construction Code.

2. Explore your decking options

While traditional timber decks exude charm, they often demand substantial maintenance like staining or painting and are susceptible to rot, warping and termites. Alternatively, composite timber or aluminium decking systems provide the allure of wood finishes with minimal upkeep. DecoDeck® stands out as a durable, low-maintenance choice, offering the aesthetic appeal of timber with the resilience of aluminium.

3. Calculate material requirements

Avoid the frustration of running short on materials mid-project by accurately estimating your needs. Double-check measurements – and then check again! Remember to include some additional material as a buffer. If you are using wood, 25% extra is recommended for wastage and off cuts. Unlike timber, aluminium DecoDeck® eliminates concerns about grain faults or warping, allowing for more precise material planning and reduced waste.

4. Assess ground beneath your deck

Before breaking ground, inspect your property plans for buried utilities or piping that could intersect with your the construction of your deck. Accidentally damaging water pipes during installation or future maintenance can be costly and disruptive. Additionally, verify with local authorities for necessary permits or approvals, ensuring compliance with building regulations.

5. Consider safety measures

Ensure compliance with safety standards by assessing whether your deck requires handrails, particularly if it exceeds one metre in height. Even decks below this threshold might benefit from additional safety features like railings and screens for privacy or aesthetic enhancement. Incorporate handrail calculations into your material order to ensure a seamless integration with your deck design.

Introducing DecoDeck®

DecoDeck® presents an ideal decking solution, combining the timeless appeal of timber with the durability and low maintenance of aluminium. Available pre-finished in a range of Super Durable™ DecoWood® woodgrain finishes that are UV-resistant and marine grade,  making it suitable for coastal applications.  DecoDeck® also meets stringent safety standards, including Flame Zone (FZ) certification for bushfire-prone areas. Enhance your deck’s aesthetics and functionality with complementary products like DecoBatten® and DecoSlat®, offering versatile handrail options compatible with the DecoDeck® system.

Choose DecoDeck® for your decking project and enjoy the perfect blend of style, durability, and effortless maintenance. Visit www.deco.net.au for more details.

Photos by DecoDeck®