All hands on deck

Here’s a look at some of the common decking materials to suit your style and budget.

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Hardwood

Hardwoods are a durable option that adds a contemporary look to a deck. A common choice is Spotted Gum, which features a beautiful grain. When it comes to finishing the deck, you can use a natural oil to highlight the grain or go for a tinted stain to deepen the colour of the timber.

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Treated pine

Treated pine is the most affordable of decking materials, so it’s a great option for larger areas if you’re on a tight budget. While treated pine doesn’t have the visual appeal of hardwood, you can easily change the colour using a decking stain to achieve the look you desire.

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Composite decking

Composite decking is a manufactured material made of wood fibres and recycled plastic, so it’s a great environmentally-friendly alternative to timber. The best part about composite decking is that it’s virtually maintenance free. It won’t rot or warp and all it takes to keep it looking good is the occasional wash down. While it’s more expensive than timber options, you’ll save time and money on maintenance.

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Modular decking

For a complete decking system that’s perfect for the DIYer, check out a modular deck. The frame comes in a kit, so all you have to do is assemble it and place it in position. It is supported on adjustable feet that sit directly on the ground so there’s no digging of holes or mixing of concrete.

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