TRANSFORM YOUR OUTDOOR SPACE: THE COMPLETE GUIDE TO DECKING IN PERTH

Mounts Bay Constructions
6 days ago
6 min read

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Looking out at your backyard and seeing nothing but wasted potential? You're not alone. Many Perth homeowners have outdoor spaces that could be so much more. With our perfect climate for outdoor living, a well-designed deck can transform your yard into the heart of your home.

WHY DECKING IS PERFECT FOR PERTH HOMES

Perth's climate is made for outdoor living. With our warm, sunny days and mild evenings, a deck gives you the perfect spot to enjoy our beautiful weather year-round. Whether you're hosting a weekend BBQ, enjoying your morning coffee, or just relaxing with a book, a thoughtfully designed deck extends your living space beyond your four walls.

A deck provides a solid, structured base that instantly expands the usable space in your backyard. Whether you choose natural wood or durable composite materials, a deck can be tailored to any layout, giving you a versatile platform for all kinds of activities—lounging, dining, entertaining, and more.

CHOOSING THE RIGHT DECKING MATERIALS FOR PERTH WEATHER

When planning your deck, materials matter—especially in our unique Western Australian climate. Here's what works best in Perth:

Material Type	Best For Perth Climate	Maintenance Level	Lifespan	Cost Range
Jarrah	★★★★★	Medium	25+ years	$$
Spotted Gum	★★★★★	Medium	25+ years	$$
Blackbutt	★★★★☆	Medium	20+ years	$$
Merbau	★★★★☆	Medium-High	25+ years	$$
Composite	★★★★★	Very Low	25-30 years	$$
Treated Pine	★★★☆☆	High	10-15 years	$
Cedar	★★★☆☆	High	15-20 years	$$

Hardwood Timber Decking

Australian hardwoods like Jarrah, Spotted Gum, and Blackbutt are popular in Perth for good reason. These timbers:

Handle our hot summers and rainy winters
Naturally resist termites and decay
Develop a beautiful patina over time
Add value to your property

Composite Decking

If low maintenance is your priority, composite decking offers:

Exceptional durability in Perth's harsh sun
No need for staining, oiling or sealing
Resistance to warping, splitting and fading
Eco-friendly options made from recycled materials

For a warm, organic feel, natural wood is a popular choice. Cedar and redwood offer a classic look and natural resistance to rot, while pressure-treated pine provides durability on a budget. Keep in mind, wood decks may require periodic staining or sealing to maintain their look and longevity.

ALFRESCO DECKING: BRINGING INDOOR COMFORT OUTSIDE

The alfresco lifestyle is part of Perth's DNA. An alfresco deck creates a seamless transition between your indoor and outdoor spaces, perfect for our climate and lifestyle.

If you love dining outdoors, your new deck and pergola offer the perfect setup for an alfresco dining area. With the right furniture and layout, you can create a cozy, stylish space to enjoy meals with family and friends under the open sky.

A well-designed alfresco deck includes:

A covered area for year-round use
Weather-resistant flooring that connects to indoor spaces
Outdoor kitchen or BBQ zone
Comfortable, durable furniture
Proper lighting for evening entertaining

PLANNING YOUR DECK: SIZE, LOCATION AND DESIGN

Before calling deck contractors near you, consider these key planning factors:

Size and Scale

The size of your deck should match how you'll use it. For family dining and entertaining, allow at least 4m x 4m. If you're planning multiple zones (dining, lounging, BBQ area), you'll need more space.

Deck Usage	Recommended Size	Ideal For
Intimate Dining	3m x 3m	Couples, small spaces
Family Dining	4m x 4m	Family of 4-6
Entertainment Area	5m x 5m+	Social gatherings
Multi-zone Living	6m x 6m+	Dining + lounging + BBQ

Location and Orientation

In Perth, think about:

Morning vs. afternoon sun exposure
Prevailing winds from the ocean
Views you want to highlight
Privacy from neighbors
Connection to indoor living areas

Design Elements

Your deck should reflect your home's style. Consider:

Integrated bench seating
Built-in planters
Multi-level designs
Railing options
Lighting for evening enjoyment

Take a moment to think about how you'd like to use this new space. Are you picturing cozy family dinners, lively social gatherings, a relaxing reading nook, or perhaps all of the above? Clarifying the purpose of your outdoor area will help guide the design process and ensure every element contributes to the experience you desire.

ADDING A PERGOLA: THE PERFECT COMPLEMENT TO YOUR DECK

A pergola takes your deck to the next level, adding architectural interest and practical benefits:

A pergola is the perfect addition to frame your deck, adding both shade and visual appeal. Unlike a solid roof, a pergola provides partial cover while still letting sunlight through, creating a dappled effect that feels both airy and intimate. Adding a pergola over your deck can also help define the space, making it feel like a distinct outdoor "room" for relaxation and gatherings.

Pergola Type	Sun Protection	Rain Protection	Style	Maintenance	Cost
Traditional Timber	★★☆☆☆	★☆☆☆☆	Classic, warm	High	$-$$
Louvered Roof	★★★★★	★★★★★	Modern	Low	$$
Steel Frame	★★☆☆☆	★☆☆☆☆	Contemporary	Low	$-$$
Sail Shade	★★★★☆	★★☆☆☆	Casual, beachy	Medium	$
Glass Roof	★★☆☆☆	★★★★★	Modern, sleek	Medium	$$

Consider these pergola options:

Timber pergolas for a classic look
Steel frames for modern designs
Adjustable louvered roofs for maximum flexibility
Retractable shade cloths for sun protection
Clear roofing sections for light with rain protection

WHY PROFESSIONAL DECK CONTRACTORS MAKE THE DIFFERENCE

While DIY decking might seem tempting, professional deck contractors bring value that saves time, money and stress in the long run.

Professional contractors are held to industry standards, and their work is often backed by warranties and insurance. Quality is at the heart of everything we do. We carefully vet our trades, double-check finishes, and ensure your home looks stunning up close and over time.

Experienced deck contractors near you will:

Navigate council approval processes
Ensure structural integrity and safety
Properly prepare groundwork and foundations
Install decking materials correctly for maximum lifespan
Complete the project efficiently and to a high standard

TRANSFORMING YOUR HOME THROUGH THOUGHTFUL RENOVATION

A deck isn't just an addition to your home—it's a transformation of how you live. As part of a broader home renovation, decking creates valuable outdoor living areas perfect for Perth's lifestyle.

Renovating your home sounds exciting, right? It's like turning a blank canvas into a masterpiece. You get to transform that old, tired space into something fresh, modern, and uniquely you. Whether it's updating your kitchen, adding a new room, or redoing the whole house, the possibilities are endless! The thought of making your space more functional and stylish can be a thrilling adventure.

When working with a home renovation contractor near you, consider:

How your deck connects to your interior spaces
Opportunities to improve flow between rooms
Window and door placements for indoor-outdoor living
Lighting design for both practical and aesthetic purposes
Complementary landscaping around your new deck

THE DECKING PROCESS: WHAT TO EXPECT

Understanding the process helps you plan for your deck renovation:

Consultation and design: Working with your contractor to create the perfect deck for your space and needs
Council approvals: Getting necessary permits and meeting building regulations
Site preparation: Clearing the area and preparing the ground
Structural work: Building the frame and supports
Decking installation: Laying the decking boards
Finishing touches: Adding railings, stairs, and other features
Final inspection: Ensuring everything meets standards and specifications

MAINTAINING YOUR DECK IN PERTH's CLIMATE

To keep your deck looking great for years to come:

Clean regularly to remove dirt, leaves and debris
Inspect for loose boards or protruding nails
Re-oil timber decking annually (or as recommended)
Check and clear drainage channels
Trim plants away from the deck surface
Apply timber treatments to prevent insect damage

COST GUIDE: BUDGETING FOR YOUR DECK PROJECT

Understanding the potential costs helps you plan your decking project more effectively. Here's a general guide to decking costs in Perth:

Project Type	Approximate Cost Range	What's Included	Factors Affecting Cost
Basic Timber Deck	$200-$300 per m²	Simple design, standard timber, ground level	Size, timber type, site access
Premium Timber Deck	$350-$500+ per m²	High-end timber, complex design	Timber choice, design complexity
Composite Deck	$350-$600+ per m²	Composite boards, substructure	Brand, color, warranty length
Elevated Deck	Add 20-40%	Additional structural requirements	Height, soil type, engineering
Deck with Pergola	Add $5,000-$15,000	Combined structure	Materials, design, size
Custom Features	Varies	Railings, stairs, built-ins	Materials, complexity

*Note: These figures are estimates only (as of 2025) and may vary based on your specific project requirements, site conditions, and material availability.

COST-SAVING TIPS WITHOUT COMPROMISING QUALITY

Plan thoroughly before starting to avoid costly changes
Consider a phased approach - build the deck now, add the pergola later
Compare material options - sometimes spending more initially saves money long-term
Choose a simple design with clean lines rather than complex shapes
Work with experienced contractors who can suggest efficient solutions

FINDING THE BEST DECK CONTRACTORS NEAR ME IN PERTH

When searching for deck builders in Perth, look for contractors who:

Specialize in outdoor living spaces
Have extensive experience with Perth's climate conditions
Offer comprehensive design and build services
Provide clear quotes and timelines
Have strong testimonials from previous clients
Are properly licensed and insured

READY TO TRANSFORM YOUR OUTDOOR SPACE?

Don't let your backyard remain underused. With the right decking solution, you can create an outdoor oasis that adds value to your home and enhances your lifestyle.

Whether you're dreaming of a simple timber deck for weekend BBQs or an extensive alfresco entertainment area, we're here to help bring your vision to life. Our team of experienced deck specialists understands Perth's unique climate and lifestyle needs.

Contact us today for a no-obligation consultation and take the first step toward creating the outdoor space you've always wanted. Let's turn that unused backyard into your family's favorite place to gather!