Decking Cost Brisbane

Timber and composite decking is one of the best investments Brisbane homeowners make for outdoor living. Expect to pay $250 to $600 per square metre installed, depending on your material choice, deck height, and design complexity.

Decking Costs by Material

MaterialCost/m²
Treated pine$250 – $380/m²
Merbau (hardwood)$320 – $500/m²
Spotted Gum$350 – $550/m²
Blackbutt$340 – $520/m²
Composite (standard)$350 – $500/m²
Composite (premium)$450 – $600/m²
Modwood / recycled$380 – $520/m²

Prices are indicative only and based on Brisbane metro market rates as of 2025. Actual costs vary depending on deck height, site access, design complexity, and railing requirements. Always obtain written quotes.

Brisbane-Specific Considerations

Brisbane's subtropical climate is both a blessing and a challenge for decking. The warm weather means you can enjoy your deck year-round, but the combination of high UV exposure, humidity, and heavy summer rain takes a toll on untreated timber. Hardwood species with high natural oil content like Merbau and Spotted Gum handle these conditions far better than softer timbers.

Deck height is a major cost driver in Brisbane. Many properties on hills require elevated decks to create flat outdoor living space, which means more subframe steel or timber and potentially engineering certification. Ground-level decks on flat blocks are significantly cheaper per square metre.

Termite protection is essential for any timber deck in Brisbane. Hardwood species are naturally more resistant, but all subframe timber should be treated or termite-resistant. Composite decking eliminates the termite risk entirely, which is one reason it is gaining popularity in South East Queensland.

Frequently Asked Questions

A 20m² deck in Brisbane typically costs $5,000 to $12,000 installed, depending on the timber or composite material chosen, deck height, and site access. Ground-level decks on flat blocks sit at the lower end, while elevated decks requiring extensive subframe construction cost more.
Timber decking (especially treated pine or Merbau) generally has a lower upfront cost than composite. However, composite decking requires virtually no ongoing maintenance — no oiling, staining, or sanding — which can make it cheaper over its 25+ year lifespan when maintenance costs are factored in.
Decks over 1 metre above natural ground level typically require building approval from Brisbane City Council. Decks close to property boundaries may also need approval. Ground-level decks under 1 metre generally do not need a permit, but always check with your local council before starting work.
Quality hardwood decking (Merbau, Spotted Gum, Blackbutt) lasts 20 to 30 years in Brisbane when properly maintained with annual oiling. Treated pine lasts 10 to 15 years. Composite decking lasts 25 to 30 years with minimal maintenance. Brisbane’s humidity and UV exposure are the main factors affecting deck longevity.
Merbau remains the most popular decking timber in Brisbane due to its durability, natural oil content, and attractive appearance. Spotted Gum is the premium choice for Australian hardwood. For low-maintenance options, composite decking handles Brisbane’s humidity and UV without the need for annual oiling.

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