Everything You Need to Know Raised Decking

If you’re looking to enhance your outdoor living space with a stunning timber deck, you’ve come to the right place. This article will cover everything you need about timber decks, decking boards, deck construction, and more.

A timber deck provides an excellent opportunity to create your own oasis in your backyard. Whether envisioning a relaxing area for outdoor gatherings or a picturesque platform to enjoy the surrounding views, a well-designed and properly constructed deck can transform your outdoor space.

In this guide, we’ll discuss the benefits of raised decking and its versatility in various settings, including pool surrounds and elevated landscapes. We’ll also delve into the planning and design considerations, ensuring that your deck meets your functional and aesthetic requirements. We’ll also provide insights into selecting the right materials, including timber decking and composite decking, to suit your needs.

So, let’s dive into the world of raised decking and discover how you can create the perfect timber deck that enhances your outdoor living experience. By the end of this article, you’ll be equipped with the knowledge and insights to embark on your deck construction project confidently.

Benefits of Raised Decking: Why Choose a Raised Deck?

A well-designed raised deck offers a multitude of benefits, transforming your outdoor living space into a stunning retreat. Whether planning a simple deck or embarking on an elaborate decking project, understanding the advantages of raised decking is essential. Let’s explore why choosing a raised deck is a fantastic option for enhancing your outdoor space.

1. Expanding Your Living Space

A raised deck extends your indoor living space, allowing you to enjoy the outdoors while maintaining the comforts of your home. It offers a dedicated area for relaxation, entertaining guests, or simply unwinding after a long day.

2. Versatile Deck Design

You can create a customised deck design that suits your style and requirements with a raised deck. Whether you envision a spacious deck with multiple levels or a compact deck for a cosy setting, the possibilities are endless.

3. Utilising Challenging Terrain

A raised deck becomes a practical solution if you have uneven or sloped ground. It allows you to maximise the use of your outdoor space, turning an otherwise difficult or unusable area into a functional and visually appealing deck.

4. Better Views and Vantage Points

By elevating your deck, you gain an advantage in capturing scenic views. Whether you have a beautiful garden, lush landscape, or captivating skyline, a raised deck provides an elevated vantage point to appreciate the surroundings fully.

4. Enhanced Privacy

A raised deck offers an elevated level of privacy, especially compared to ground-level or low-level decks. Enjoy a secluded, intimate atmosphere shielded from prying eyes or distracting elements.

5. Improved Ventilation and Drainage

Elevating your deck allows for improved airflow and ventilation, reducing the chances of moisture build-up and rot. Additionally, a raised deck with proper drainage ensures water doesn’t pool, minimising potential damage and extending the lifespan of your deck.

6. Structural Stability

Constructing a raised deck involves careful consideration of joist size, correct sizing of bearers and joists, and using a string line for precision. This attention to detail ensures a structurally stable and durable deck that can withstand the test of time.

Building Permits And Regulations: Understanding the Legal Requirements

When undertaking a raised decking project, it is crucial to have a solid understanding of the building permits and regulations that apply to your specific site and location. Adhering to the legal requirements ensures the safety and compliance of your deck. Here are some key considerations to keep in mind:

Look At Your Local Building Codes

Firstly, familiarise yourself with the local regulations and building codes that govern deck construction. These regulations vary depending on the area and may include guidelines on deck height, setback requirements, railing specifications, and load-bearing capacities. It’s essential to consult the relevant authorities or visit their websites to access the official documentation and stay updated with any changes or amendments.

Remember, obtaining the proper permits and complying with the building regulations is not only a legal obligation but also a way to ensure the safety and longevity of your deck. Failing to meet these requirements may result in penalties, delays, or even needing to remove and rebuild the deck.

So, it’s essential to thoroughly understand and adhere to the building permits and regulations applicable to your raised decking project.

Structure And Foundation Of Your Deck

You must consider the structural requirements for your deck. The connection of the deck to your house is a critical aspect to address. The deck must securely attach to the existing structure, typically using proper hangers, bolts, or brackets. It’s essential to follow the recommended span tables for the joists and ensure they are the correct size and spacing to support the deck’s load.

Footings play a vital role in the stability and longevity of your deck. They provide the necessary support for the deck’s weight and ensure it remains level and secure. The type and size of footings required will depend on factors such as soil conditions, deck height, and size. For example, larger decks or decks with heavier materials may require larger footings to distribute the weight evenly.

The Materials You Will Use

Consider the materials used for your deck boards as well. If you opt for wood, such as pine, it’s crucial to select quality materials that are suitable for outdoor use. Ensure the wood is properly treated and resistant to decay, rot, and insect infestation.

Additionally, follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for installation, including the appropriate spacing between boards to allow for expansion and drainage.

Planning and Design: Considerations for a Successful Project

Careful planning and design are key to achieving a successful outcome when embarking on a raised decking project. By considering the following factors, you can ensure that your deck is visually appealing, structurally sound, and compliant with Australian standards.

1. Decking Material Selection

Choose the right decking material for your project. Timber is a popular choice due to its natural beauty and versatility. Consider hardwood options that offer durability and resistance to decay. Alternatively, explore composite decking for a low-maintenance and long-lasting solution.

2. Understanding Australian Standards

Familiarise yourself with the relevant Australian standards for decking construction. These standards outline important guidelines regarding bearer size, joist spacing, and other structural considerations. Adhering to these standards ensures a safe and compliant deck.

3. Assessing The Ground

Before starting construction, assess the ground condition where your deck will be built. Ensure it is stable, level, and adequately prepared. If the ground is uneven or prone to moisture, additional measures such as installing a concrete slab or using adjustable deck supports may be necessary.

4. Consideration For Pool Surrounds

If your raised deck will be near a pool, take into account the specific requirements for pool surrounds. Check local regulations and safety guidelines to ensure your deck meets the necessary criteria for pool proximity.

5. Structural Integrity

Pay close attention to the structural integrity of your deck. Ensure the bearers and joists are correctly sized and spaced to support the weight of the deck and any anticipated loads.

Consulting with a professional or requesting a free quote from reputable deck builders can provide valuable insights into the appropriate structural design for your raised deck.

6. Integration with the House

Consider how your raised deck will integrate with your house’s existing structure. Ensure proper alignment, connection, and sealing to maintain the integrity of both the deck and the house. This integration will create a seamless transition between indoor and outdoor spaces.

7. Optimising Space

Maximise the functionality of your deck by carefully planning its layout and features. Determine how you will utilise the deck space for dining, lounging, or entertainment purposes. Incorporate elements such as seating areas, built-in storage, or planters to enhance the deck’s aesthetics and functionality.

Selecting The Right Materials: Wood Decking Board, Composite, Or Other Options

When considering materials for your new deck, particularly for a raised decking project near a swimming pool, it’s important to explore various options that will impact your deck’s aesthetics, durability, and maintenance requirements. Let’s delve into the available choices, incorporating the keywords you mentioned.

Timber Decking

Decking boards made of wood are popular due to their natural beauty and versatility. Pine is commonly used for decking among the different wood options due to its affordability and ease of installation.

Pine decking boards are easily accessible and can be laid in different styles to achieve your desired look. However, it’s essential to note that wood decking, including decking boards, requires regular maintenance, such as staining or sealing. This maintenance helps protect the wood from the elements and ensures its longevity around a swimming pool.

Composite Decking

Another option to consider is composite decking, which has been gaining popularity as an alternative to wood. Composite decking is made from a combination of wood fibres and recycled plastic, resulting in a durable and low-maintenance material.

These decking boards come in various styles and colours, providing greater flexibility in design. Moreover, they are resistant to rot, decay, and insect damage, making them an attractive choice for a new deck around a swimming pool.

The durability and hassle-free nature of composite decking make it an excellent option for those seeking a long-lasting solution.

Other materials are worth exploring for your raised deck near the swimming pool besides wood and composite. For a more luxurious and durable finish, you can consider hardwood decking. Hardwood decks are renowned for their natural beauty and ability to withstand harsh weather conditions, making them an ideal choice for an area near a swimming pool.

Additionally, alternative materials like PVC or aluminium decking offer unique advantages such as extreme durability and moisture resistance, ensuring the longevity of your deck in such a setting.

How To Choose The Right Decking Materials

When selecting materials for your deck, it’s crucial to consider specific site requirements and the envisioned style of your deck. Factors such as the deck’s connection to the house, the span of the deck, and the necessary footings should be taken into account. It is advisable to consult the manufacturer’s recommendations and guidelines to ensure proper installation and optimal performance of the chosen materials.

To better understand the available options, you can visit suppliers’ websites and view examples of decks constructed using different materials. This will provide you with visual representations of how each material can fulfil your specific needs and preferences. Ultimately, by carefully selecting the right materials for your new deck near the swimming pool, you can create a beautiful and functional outdoor space that will bring years of enjoyment.

Raise Your Decking Today With Final Touch Carpentry And Construction

When it comes to undertaking a raised decking project, you have the option of taking a do-it-yourself (DIY) approach or hiring professional contractors. Both options have their advantages and considerations, and weighing them carefully is essential.

If you have the necessary skills, experience, and time, opting for a DIY deck construction can be a fulfilling and cost-effective choice. On the other hand, hiring professional contractors brings several advantages. Contractors have the expertise and experience to design and construct a deck that meets Australian standards and regulations. They are familiar with the permit application process and can handle the necessary paperwork on your behalf. Professional contractors can also access specialised tools and equipment, ensuring efficient and precise installation.

Hiring professionals, such as Final Touch Carpentry and Construction, can save you time and provide peace of mind. They will handle all aspects of the project, from acquiring the permits to executing the construction process. This allows you to focus on other priorities while having the assurance that skilled individuals are carrying out the project.

Ultimately, the decision between DIY and hiring contractors depends on your level of expertise, available time, budget, and project complexity.

See you in the next guide!