Imagine having a deck in your backyard where you place lounging chairs, cushions and a BBQ stove in the middle. Now, imagine it is a weekend, and you have invited your friends over. You cook delicious BBQ on the stove and have a whale of a time.
A deck can add a great deal of value to not just your life, but also your property. If you are planning to construct a deck in your home, we have a complete pricing guide that will help you make the right decision.
Factors That Affect Decking Costs in Melbourne
If you are a resident of Essendon or any other area in Melbourne and planning to improve the curb appeal of your home, constructing a deck is one of the wisest investments you can make. The price of decking in Essedon is influenced by a number of factors:
- Material Type (timber, composite, PVC)
The first and most significant factor that influences the cost of decking is the material you choose. Among the most popular materials are timber, composite and PVC. Timber is a traditional option and adds warmth to the space. It is low-cost but requires a lot of maintenance. Composite, on the other hand, is more expensive. But the good news is that it is low-maintenance and more durable.
- Deck Size and Layout Complexity
The next factor that influences the price of deck construction is the size and complexity. A deck that is bigger in size will naturally cost more than a small deck. In addition, design plays a vital role. A simple rectangular deck will not cost much. However, if your deck has multiple levels, curves and intricate designs, it will definitely cost more.
- Labour and Installation Charges
Different professionals charge different prices for installation and labour, which adds to the overall cost of constructing a deck. Remember that it is best to choose someone who offers competitive construction pricing and is well-versed in different deck designs. This will ensure that you are not paying a lot, yet enjoying a beautifully constructed deck.
- Site Preparation and Accessibility
When determining the price of deck construction, you also need to consider the cost involved in preparing the site and how easy it is to access. If large trees need to be uprooted, uneven land needs to be levelled or the construction site is located in a remote area, the price will be higher.
- Council Permits and Approvals (If Required)
In certain locations, constructing a deck requires obtaining council permits and approval. This runs up to the total cost of the deck. So, it is important to enquire about any specific compliance requirements that you need to abide by.
- Custom Features (Stairs, Balustrades, Lighting, etc.)
Adding railings, balustrades, different lighting or built-in seats will cost more than constructing a simple deck. All these add-ons mean additional materials and labour, which affect the cost of deck construction.
Cost of Decking by Material Type
As mentioned earlier, different types of materials used in deck construction have different costs, which leads to a major difference in the total cost. Here are some of the most popular choices and their costs.
- Timber Decking Cost
Timber decking is one of the most popular choices for deck construction. On average, a 20-square-meter deck costs between $6400 and $10,000.
- Treated Pine
Treated pine is another great choice for the construction of your deck. It costs between $200 $350 per square meter.
- Merbau
Merbau, known for its durability and aesthetic appeal, is also a popular option. For deck construction using Merbau, you will need to pay between $350 and $550 per square meter.
- Spotted Gum
The cost of deck construction with spotted gum ranges between $500 and $700 per square meter. However, the price may vary depending on the different grades of spotted gum.
- Composite Decking Cost
Installing a composite deck will cost between $100 and $450+ per square meter. Basic composite decking costs between $250 and $450+ per square meter, and higher-end composite decking will cost between $200 and $350+ per square meter.
- PVC Decking Cost
The cost of PVC decking in Melbourne will range between $100 and $350+ per square meter, depending on the quality of the material and type.
Average Decking Installation Costs in Melbourne
- DIY vs Professional Installation
The first thing that you need to consider is whether you want to opt for a DIY route or hire a professional for the job. If you want to save money, you can weigh in on different aspects of a project and work on the easy ones yourself. For the rest, you can hire a team of certified professionals.
- Hourly Labour Rates
Do not settle for the first deck construction company. Gather quotes from different companies and choose the one that you think will be the most cost-effective.
- Estimated Total Cost for Small, Medium and Large Decks
The size of the deck is another factor that determines the cost of deck construction. The total cost for a small basic deck is $170 to $200 per square meter. Constructing a basic deck is an excellent choice if you have a simple design, with no frills or extravagance.
Next comes the medium-range decks. These decks are perfect if you want a balance between cost and quality. Such decks are made of hardwood and other composite materials. The total cost of constructing mid-range decks is somewhere between $200 and $350 per square meter.
High-end decks are the most expensive. They create a luxurious outdoor living space, but the cost of construction is also much higher. Usually, the price of a high-end deck starts from $350 and can go up to $800 per square meter, depending on how complicated the project is.
Hidden or Additional Costs to Consider
One thing you need to remember is that, other than the factors mentioned above, the total cost of constructing a deck is also influenced by the following aspects that mostly get overlooked:
- Waste Removal
Deck construction generates a lot of debris, wood scraps, and dirt. Disposing of this waste responsibly requires hiring a waste management service provider. This may cost some money, depending on the location and volume.
- Structural Supports or Framing Upgrades
A strong deck requires a strong foundation. For this, you will need footing, reinforced joists and the construction of concrete piers. This structural support leads to increased material and labour costs.
- Maintenance (for Timber)
It is not enough to construct a deck; you need to maintain it regularly as well. This is especially important if the deck is made of natural wood, such as timber. Wooden decks require staining and sealing from time to time to ensure their longevity. Even for composite materials, proper care and maintenance ensure that the quality remains intact for a longer duration of time.
- Waterproofing or Sealing
In a climate like Melbourne’s, it is important to waterproof and seal your deck to keep the water damage and the surface mould growth at bay. Waterproofing seals the surface and protects it against harsh weather.
- Permit Application Fees
You may need a different permit for the construction of the deck, especially if you plan to add unique structures. This may increase the overall cost of construction.
Tips to Save Money on Your Decking Project
There are ways you can save money on your deck construction project.
- Choosing Cost-Effective Materials
Choosing a cost-effective material reduces the overall cost of construction. Usually, composite materials are more expensive than natural wood. Hence, if you want to save money, you must opt for the latter.
- Off-Season Installation Discounts
If you construct the deck during the off-season, such as winters and monsoons, you may get a discount. So make sure to ask your contractors about this.
- Getting Multiple Quotes
Ask different service providers for quotations. Analyse the different prices and choose the one that strikes the perfect balance between quality and affordability.
- Opting for Simpler Designs
Simpler designs mean less cost. If you want to save money on construction, opt for a design with fewer intricate details.
How Froggys Can Help with Your Decking Project
Froggys is one of the most reliable contractors for deck construction in Melbourne. With years of experience and expertise in deck construction, we ensure that every project is completed to perfection. All you need to do is tell us about your vision and give us a budget, and we will take care of the rest!
We offer deck construction of different sizes and ensure that we never exceed the budget. Moreover, our team is always here to hear out your queries and find a solution to your problems. Connect with us today to learn more.
Final Thoughts: Choosing the Right Decking for Your Budget
Building a deck requires many considerations, one of which is choosing the right decking. The construction project should meet your budget, your needs, and your style. So, make sure you discuss it with our experts and turn your dream of owning a beautiful deck into a reality.
