Decks & outdoors

Decking, patios, pergolas, pools, outdoor kitchens, paving, drainage, and weather-smart maintenance.

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Learn it properly

Decks & outdoors guides

1 published

How to choose the right decking material

Compare climate exposure, maintenance, slip resistance, substructure, lifespan, and whole-of-life cost—not colour alone.

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A sound starting point

What to check first

Outdoor work must manage sun, rain, drainage, wind, soil and maintenance together. The most attractive material is a poor choice if its substructure or exposure is ignored.

Design drainage

Keep falls, gaps, outlets and ground clearance working so water cannot sit against timber, paving or the house.

Match the exposure

Consider UV, salt, bushfire or wildfire risk, frost, heat and shade when choosing materials and finishes.

Inspect the structure

Check posts, ledgers, fixings, handrails and connections before treating only the visible surface.

South Africa · Australia · New Zealand

Regional context

Outdoor systems must cope with local UV, rainfall, heat, frost, salt, soil and fire exposure. Australia and parts of South Africa and New Zealand also have specific bushfire or wildfire considerations. Pool barriers, deck heights, boundaries and structural work can trigger approvals that differ by council and state or province.

Plan the work

A better project brief

Start below the finish

Resolve soil, footings, drainage, ventilation, structure, ledger attachment and corrosion-resistant connectors before selecting visible boards or paving.

Model water and shade

Observe runoff, irrigation, roof discharge and winter shade. Keep water away from the house and avoid details that trap damp debris.

Budget recurring care

Include cleaning, coatings, joint sand, sealants, board replacement, corrosion checks and safe access in the material comparison.

Check people and boundaries

Coordinate stairs, handrails, barriers, pool access, lighting, privacy, neighbours and property lines. A safe outdoor room must work at night, when wet and when children or visitors use it.

Common questions

Decks & outdoors quick answers

Is composite decking maintenance free?+

No. It reduces some coating work but still needs cleaning, ventilation, correct support spacing and care around heat and staining.

Why is water pooling on a patio?+

Insufficient fall, settlement, blocked drainage or a badly positioned outlet may be responsible. The water path must be corrected.

Does a low deck still need approval?+

Possibly. Height is only one factor; attachment, structure, barriers, boundaries, fire, pools and local planning rules also matter. Check before building.

How often should deck structure be inspected?+

Inspect visually at least annually and after severe weather, paying particular attention to movement, soft timber, corrosion, barriers and the connection to the building.

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