building a deck

ljd · Oct 19, 2006 7:13 pm

hi everyone,
i'm building a deck for the first time and I'm really not sure what to expect price wise. It will end up about 3X4 mtrs, and will be about 1.5 mtrs above ground, in line with my existing back balcony.
I'm getting a quote for a cheapish hardwood.
Can anyone tell me what their deck cost to build, in both the hardwoods and in treated pine? How long would treated pine last before it starts to look shabby and bow?
Thanks in advance!!!
LJD

Dukekamaya · Oct 19, 2006 9:35 pm

Hi, I can give you an exact quote for the materials - I do it at work!
Is the 3 or 4 mt. span across the back of the house?? Are you putting a roof over it?
Are you going to use brick piers or timber posts.
I generally recommend to use treted pine below the deck and hardwood above if its hardwood look your after. Screwing or nailing decking into hardwood joists is not fun.
The cheapest hardwood decking generally is a 66x19 mixed aussie hardwood decking.
You can PM me all the details if you like.

ausdesign · Oct 19, 2006 10:36 pm

Make sure you check it out thoroughly before starting ljd. There are several items that you need to consider.
The bearers & joists have to be H3 treated pine, or durability class 1 or 2 timber (or steel)
You aren't allowed to overlook your neighbours ' private open space' or 'habitable room' windows (within 9 meters of your deck)
And as you'll know from your existing balcony you'll need a rail at 1 met. high & intermediate rails or balusters with a gap of no more than 125mm
That's the main ones.

Good building