Decking Cost Melbourne 2025
$300 – $800 per square metre installed. Compare timber vs composite decking costs with our detailed Melbourne pricing guide.
Decking Cost by Material
| Material | Cost/m² | Maintenance | Lifespan |
|---|---|---|---|
| Treated Pine | $300 – $400 | Oil/stain every 1-2 years | 10–15 years |
| Merbau Hardwood | $400 – $550 | Oil annually | 25–40 years |
| Spotted Gum | $500 – $600 | Oil annually | 30–50 years |
| Composite (mid-range) | $400 – $600 | Wash occasionally | 25–30 years |
| Composite (premium) | $600 – $800 | Wash occasionally | 25–30 years |
Additional Costs
| Item | Cost |
|---|---|
| Balustrades (glass) | $300 – $600/m |
| Balustrades (wire/timber) | $150 – $300/m |
| Stairs (per step) | $200 – $500 |
| Built-in seating | $500 – $2,000 |
| Pergola over deck | $5,000 – $15,000 |
| Building permit | $300 – $1,000 |
Factors Affecting Decking Costs in Melbourne
Deck height and elevation — Ground-level decks are the cheapest to build. Elevated decks require more subframe material, engineering, and often balustrades, adding $100–$200/m² to the base cost.
Shape and complexity — Rectangular decks are the most cost-effective. Curved edges, multi-level designs, and integrated planter boxes add labour and material waste, increasing costs by 15–25%.
Site access — Rear-access Melbourne properties allow direct material delivery. If all materials must be hand-carried through the house or a narrow side gate, expect an additional $500–$1,500 in labour.
Melbourne weather considerations — Melbourne's UV intensity and temperature swings demand quality finishes. Composite decking handles Melbourne's climate better than softwoods, making it increasingly popular despite the higher upfront cost.
How to Save Money
- Keep it simple — a rectangular, ground-level deck is 20–30% cheaper than elevated or complex shapes.
- Consider treated pine — it's half the cost of hardwood, though it requires more maintenance.
- Wire balustrades over glass — wire costs $150–$300/m vs $300–$600/m for glass.
- Build in autumn/winter — some builders offer 5–10% discounts during quieter months.
- Get multiple quotes — decking prices vary widely between Melbourne builders.
Disclaimer: All costs are estimates based on Melbourne market rates as of 2025. Actual costs vary depending on your specific requirements, site conditions, and chosen contractor. Always obtain detailed written quotes.
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