Deck clamps are great at holding, straightening, and aligning your decking materials together to your selected gap setting.

It also costs less than what helpers charge for half a day’s work.

DIY workers and homeowners hoping to build a deck on their own would benefit from owning several deck clamps. This material can be used in dozens of ways that save time and energy. It also allows homeowners to ensure that their projects look cleaner and more accurate.

Where can you use deck clamps?

Deck clamps are often used to secure two decking boards together. This is especially helpful if you’re trying to build a post, a beam, or vertical rises—such as stairs or seats.

Clamps make it easier for contractors and homeowners to align decking materials, newel posts, or pieces of the built-up beam. It can also users ensure than the joints between two pieces won’t open up while driving a fastener.

Do you have a helper with you? With deck clamps, you can free up your helper from holding things for you. This means he or she would have more time to focus on other tasks.

A word of caution about deck clamps: They should never serve as a substitute for structural connections. If you’re using a clamp to hold a support post to a beam, fasten the assembly before attempting to stand on it.

Where can I get a deck clamp?

Here at Deck-Max, we offer 450mm decking clamps that serve as the primary tool used to hold the board down to the joist.

The 450mm deck clamp has a reach that suits decks with a joist height of 400mm. It’s also a great all-rounder clamp that has multiple uses.

How do you use Deck-Max’s deck clamp?

Decking clamps allow contractors to quickly install decking materials without having to worry too much about their alignment. When building decks, carpenters typically grab a chisel to lever the board back. This method might crack or damage the edge of the board. Standing on the material or putting your foot on, it would also do the same.

With our deck clamps, you can hold the board into position without potentially damaging it. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to use our deck clamps.

1. Bring the next boarding material and tap it lightly into position.
2. Use the clamp to reach back and capture the board.
3. Apply pressure on the board using the deck clamps
4. Bring a short clamp and attach it under the board. This prevents the board from rising.
5. Finish the boarding.
6. Fasten Deck-Max’s hidden deck fasteners.
7. Repeat the process until the deck is complete.

Do you want to watch the entire process of building your deck using our deck clamps? Click here to view the video.

Each state in Australia has its own decking license regulations and standards that homeowners and commercial property owners should follow when building a deck.

These rules are meant to ensure that you won’t end up with a collapsed balcony or deck.

In this article, we covered everything you need to know about building standards across the different states in the nation. This guide will help ensure that you meet the standards set by your local council and avoid possible litigation.

What type of license is required of a deck builder?

Each state has its own decking license regulations for deck builders. The answer depends on several factors, including:

• The size of the proposed deck
• The height of the deck
• Local council regulations
• State licensing authorities

Some states allow builders to construct a deck if they hold a restricted building license. In others, only fully licensed builders can build decks. In this article, we covered everything you need to know about decking builders’ across various states in Australia.

NOTE: These rules do vary from time to time and we have done our best to provide up to date information. Always double check your local government for confirmation.

New South Wales

NSW has some of the strictest builder’s license regulations across the nation. Builders can only get their licenses from the New South Wales Department of Fair Trading.

Any residential building project exceeding $1,000 in value, including labour and materials, can only be carried out by licensed builders. This is typically the case with timber or composite decking projects. When hiring a licensed builder in NSW, look for a person who has more than one type of license.

• The person responsible for overseeing the decking project should have a Qualified Building Supervisor license.
• The company you employ to complete the decking project would need a Contractor’s License.
• New South Wales requires building partnership or companies to appoint Nominated Supervisors to carry out building work.

Victoria
In Victoria, any project on a residential building exceeding $5,000—inclusive of labour and material—should be overseen and carried out by a registered Building Practitioner. There are three types of builders licenses in the state:

• Domestic Builder – Unlimited (DB-U) can carry out all domestic building projects.
• Domestic Builder – Limited (DB-L) can carry out a limited scope of building projects. Typically, a person with a DB-L license can build a deck, as long as the project does not require the skills of a DB-U.
• Domestic Builder – Manager (DB-M) oversees building projects. However, he cannot do decking or building work.

In Victoria, contracts are legally binding to the contractor and the homeowner. To avoid potential litigation, ensure that your contract for the decking project is complete. Make sure the project also comes with a warranty for the materials and workmanship.

Note: For some projects, they do not require a registered Builder Practitioner. This includes non-structural building projects, such as the installations of windows.

Queensland

Homeowners in Queensland would need to get a building permit before carrying out projects above $3,300, labour and materials included. These projects include decking and other minor renovations.

Queensland would not issue a building permit to homeowners that do not hire a licensed builder or carry an owner-builder permit. Builders hoping to get their license must go to the Queensland Building Services Authority (BSA). Should anything go wrong, the BSA will hold the builder accountable.

Builders in Queensland may carry a restricted or unrestricted builder’s license. As long as their license allows them to build decks, you can hire them for your project.

Note: It is possible to hire an unlicensed builder in Queensland for smaller deck projects. However, homeowners would need to bring their case to the courts should anything go wrong.

South Australia

In South Australia, a “deck” means any horizontal platform that is free standing or attached to a building. In this state, decking projects can only be carried out by or under the supervision of licensed builders.

• Building Supervisors are allowed to supervise the work of others.
• Building Contractors may sign building contracts, carry out the work, and supervise others’.

Builders in South Australia can get their licenses from the Consumer and Building Services (CBS) sector of the South Australian Attorney General’s Department.

A Building Contractor who is not registered as a Building Supervisor must nominate a registered supervisor to oversee the project.

Note: When hiring a builder, make sure the contractor holds a contractor’s and a supervisor’s license for decking work.

Western Australia

Unlike other states, homeowners in Western Australia are not required to hire a licensed builder to build a deck. However, they must get a building permit and sub-contract a registered Building Contractor to oversee their work.

One exception to this law is if the total cost of the project exceeds $20,000. These types of projects must be carried out by a registered Building Practitioner.

If you are an owner-builder, you can carry out your decking project without supervision, but only after you’ve submitted a detailed plan to your local council. The council will then grant you Planning Approval and a Building Permit.

Your decking plans must meet Building Code Australia (BCA) standards. After completion, your decking would be inspected to ensure you have met the criteria.

Note: Owner-builders would be responsible for the project, including its planning and six years after its completion. Owner-builders may also face legal issues if the decking does not meet local council regulations.

Tasmania

Tasmania’s Department of Justice oversees all building work made in the state. The agency is also responsible for issuing accreditation to builders. Deck builders would need Builder and Construction Manager accreditation to carry out decking projects.

Besides these accreditations, the builders are required to prove they can supervise and carry out building work. They would also have current Public Liability Insurance and Professional Indemnity Insurance.

Tasmania requires its Building Practitioners to renew their licenses annually. Before their accreditations are renewed, they will go through the Ongoing Professional Development (OPD) Training. This program ensures Building Practitioners are updated with current building practices.

Australian Capital Territory

In the Australian Capital Territory, decking is part of the building trade. There are four different classifications of licensed builders in this state:

• Class A Builders (unlimited) can carry out all types of building projects.
• Class B Builder (medium-rise) can only work on building three storeys or lower.
• Class C Builders (low-rise) can only perform building work on establishments two storeys or lower.
• Class D Builders can only carry out non-structural projects.

If you’re looking for a licensed builder in ACT, you will see their licensing information on their Construction Occupation License issued by the ACT Planning and Land Authority (ACTPLA).

Typically, decking builders would hold Class A, B, or C license. Some may be restricted to decking projects and other specific building works.

Northern Territory

In the Northern Territory, homeowners are required to get a building permit before they can build a deck. Building permits are granted after homeowners submit a detailed plan of their decking project. The proposal should be accompanied by proof that your decking meets BCA standards and local regulations.

The Building Practitioners Board registers builders. If you plan to hire a licensed builder for the decking project, look for a person holding a Building Contractor (registered) license or a Building Contractor (unregistered) license.

Note: Height off ground by each local code will enforce the installation of LEGAL balustrading that is required for all decks:

• Over a certain height off ground
• Next to a pool

**These points do change so use this as a guide only and always refer to your local authority.

Are you looking to transform an unused space in your home into a living area?

Merbau timber is a versatile decking material used to turn an empty room into a beautiful space.

Sometimes referred to as Kwilla, Merbau timber is naturally resistant to termites, weathering, and bushfires Bal 29. This makes it perfect for homes located in fire-prone areas. In this article, we covered the factors you need to know if you’re considering a Merbau decking.

What Are The Pros And Cons Of Merbau Decking?

Decking has become a popular task among house owners in recent years. Decking can quickly turn an unused space in a home into an expansive area where people can relax over a cup of coffee, a BBQ, or most likely a few beers and a Chardy….

In Australia, homeowners looking to undertake the task of building a deck often turn to Merbau hardwood. Merbau timber comes in all colours, shapes, and sizes, allowing homeowners to choose what best reflects their personality and style.

The reason for variation in colour is the drying process. The Merbau can be deep red, this is caused by cheap drying (too short a time). This results in a cheap sell price. However, this creates a big problem. As it dries and shrinks it causes movement and twisting. The deep red colour is the Tannis / moisture in the boards. Which causes the deep blood red / brown colour over time.

Deck-Max cut and straighten the boards and hold in the kiln for enough time to ensure the correct moisture content to the core (middle of the board which takes so much longer to dry).

This does increase the manufacturing cost and sell price but the material will be much lighter in colour and the moisture content as the ambient Australian standard is 15 to 16%.

This board will be extremely stable with minimal movement and a colour that is so beautiful rather than the deep red unstable variant that most timber companies will sell you.

Tannins from Merbau is an issue especially on decks butting into swimming pools or anywhere near stone or porous tile. This cheap merbau with high tannins content will bleed tannins colour and stain all surfaces near it. This includes elevated decks that cause the tannins to run down the walls and create very hard to remove stains.

Merbau, sometimes referred to as Kwilla, is grown locally in the northern part of Australia, but it can also be seen in New Guinea and Indonesia. This hardwood is known for being one of the most versatile and durable decking options, making it perfect for outdoor areas in countries with harsh weather changes.

What are the advantages of Merbau decking?

It is incredibly durable and workable.

Merbau timber is a very solid material that has a natural ability to resist decays caused by termites and weathering. It’s also a versatile material that can be used for a range of projects, including outdoor decking, flooring, and furniture.

The Merbau timber has a Class 1 rating for open-air use. This means the material is very stable and has a low shrinkage and expansion rate, which is rarely found in other timber species.

It’s naturally resistant to bushfires.

Merbau is one of the seven timbers deemed suitable for use in areas prone to bushfires across Australia. This hardwood material won’t catch fire easily, which makes it ideal for decking in fire-prone locales. It meets the Bal 29 standards in Australia.

It’s a very beautiful timber.

The Merbau hardwood can retain colour naturally for a longer time than other hardwood species. The timber is naturally reddish-brown with golden spots, but the coating influences the final colour.

Many homeowners opt for a natural oil to emphasise the wood’s natural beauty and interlocking grain design, which some believe improves over time. We also offer oils that range from dark red-brown to light yellow-brown to add to the timber’s complex appearance.

What are the disadvantages of Merbau decking?

It is an oily species of timber.

Merbau generally grows in the rainforest and has a high tannin content. When the timber gets wet, it can make the timber’s colours bleed. The tannin can easily hold fast to the soles of your shoes and even stain your walls or concrete. You can prevent your Merbau timber from bleeding by buying well-seasoned materials. Deck-Max are the only company in Australia that take from log to finished decking to deliver high quality, pre grooved ready for the hidden fasteners and low tannin minimising the leaching of the colours.

There are specific care instructions.

Moisture can cause severe damage to hardwood, even to Merbau timber. Decking specialists recommend stacking and covering Merbau timber until it’s ready for laying. Some also suggest cleaning all marks after laying before coating the hardwood with penetrating oil

Deck-Max offer a 3 x step process on their Merbau Decking:

1. Lay the boards and then apply a deep clean with a specific solution (Power Prep) that brings up the tannins from the surface.
2. Then clean with a reviver that removes the dark tannins off the surface ready to apply the finish oil.
3. Apply 2 to 3 coats of recommended oil.

Merbau decking material is expensive.

Merbau timber is becoming harder to discover. While most stocks found in Australia are imported, many homeowners find the deck project is a costly option. With other decking materials available like composite it fits very well into the affordable sector of the market.

Like all quality timbers, Merbau decking costs a lot of money. You need to pay for the upfront materials cost, the installation, and ongoing maintenance. Merbau decks would require staining on a six-month to 12-month basis.

While the initial cost may seem like a lot, paying for a top-grade hardwood decking will pay off in the long run. Especially when you come to refurbish in a few years.

If you did not use the Deck-Max hidden fasteners in the Merbau you will not be able to sand. You cannot sand a deck that has nails or screws BUT you can with the Deck-max decking and hidden fasteners.

Deck-Max’s Merbau timber are pre-grooved and comes with the Deck-Max Pro Clip to make installation an easy process. Find out more about Merbau decking by clicking here. You can also contact our decking specialists to get a quote today!

A termite infestation can cause devastating damage to a house’s foundation.

Decks, which are often exposed to harsh weather elements, are prone to moisture and rot. This makes it more susceptible to termites.

If you’re looking for a floor option that wouldn’t cost you thousands of dollars in repair, Merbau timber may be the best choice. This beautiful wood is known for being resistant to several factors, including bush fire and termites.

Can Termites Damage Merbau Timber Decking?

Termites are known for causing devastating and costly damage to homes and furniture. Understanding what attracts termites to your home is very important in avoiding an infestation that would be difficult to stop.

If you have hardwood decking or floors, you may be concerned about the possibility of having major termite issues. However, not all hardwood materials are susceptible to termite infestation. Merbau timber, for example, is resistant to these pests.

It is always recommended to consider all preventive measures available prior to the building of the deck. This includes spoil spraying before deck construction begins. Experts also suggest checking and following local building codes for termite inspection point.

What is Merbau timber?

Merbau timber is a beautiful hardwood species that comes from the Kwila tree. The species is found in a few locations across the globe—mostly in places with tropical climates—including Australia, Indonesia, Papua New Guinea, Tanzania, and Madagascar.

Merbau timber is known for its unparalleled beauty, functionality, and resilience. It’s famous for its orange golden-brown colour, which depends on the manufacturer’s chosen drying process. The coating influences the final colour.

Merbau wood is mainly used for flooring and decking. The material is also used to make musical instruments and outdoor furniture. However, it’s been called a controversial choice as a building material.

Experts warn that Merbau timber may become extinct within the next 35 years, mostly because it is not sustainable. The tree takes around 40 to 80 years to be ready for harvest. Individual Merbau trees are sparse, even in Merbau-rich areas.

This makes Deck-Max the only company in Australia that buys legal logs and creates certified legal wood for the end product.

What is Merbau timber resistant to?

Merbau is a timber often found in mangrove forests. The material is naturally oily and has a high tannin content, making it resistant to weathering and termites. These pests eat the cellulose from the wood cells, but they are less attracted to trees with harder cells.

Like the Bojonegro Teak and Iron Wood, Merbau timber has a core so dense that termites have difficulties eating it. However, termites would still attack the outer rings or the sapwood as they are softer than the core.

People living in fire-prone areas also choose Merbau decking as it’s resistant to bushfire, which means the flames won’t catch easily. The Merbau hardwood is rated BAL 29.

What are the signs of termites?

The signs of termite damage are not always obvious. Termites are commonly referred to as the silent destroyer. They feed on dead wood from the inside out, weakening the material's inner structure and causing it to exhibit abnormal sounds.

The signs of damage largely vary according to the type of termites. Subterranean termites, which dwell in damp soil, cause damage that resembles water damage. Dry wood termites establish colonies and cause cracks in the material.

The different signs you should look out for include:

• Softwood that causes a hollow sound when tapped
• Mud tubes outside the home
• Blistering wood structures
• Cracked paint
• Damage to other structures around the home, including the fence or patio
• Discarded wings near doors or windowsills

Experts recommend reducing moisture in and around your home by diverting water away from your property. You can also reduce humidity inside the home by installing ventilation in crawl spaces and avoid planting dense foliage close to the house’s foundation.

Deck-Max has a team of experts who can give quality advise that would help you create your dream project that you can enjoy for a long time.

If you are looking to build a Merbau deck, contact Deck-Max today to get a quote. You can also call our decking specialists to help you get the best decking solution fit for your needs.

In recent years, more people have made the switch from traditional wooden decking products to composite boards.

These products are made from a combination of recycled natural and synthetic ingredients that makes it durable, eco-friendly, and highly sustainable.

If you’re looking for an option that doesn’t require a lot of maintenance and can easily offset the cost in a few years, composite decking may just be the perfect choice for you.

In this article, we cover everything you need to know about composite decking and why it’s the top option on the market.

Everything You Need To Know About Composite Decking

Over the last ten years, more people have begun veering away from wood decking and started choosing composite decking as the perfect material for their backyard living space. While each material has its own share of pros and cons, composite decking continues to be a popular choice over traditional wood materials.

In this article, we will define composite decking and explore everything you need to consider before finalising your overall deck design.

What is Composite Decking?

Composite decking is a man-made product made from a combination of natural and synthetic materials. Typically, manufacturers produce composite boards by mixing wood fibre, plastic, and bonding agents.

There are two types of composite decking: uncapped wood composite and capped wood composite. Some uncapped wood composite are more susceptible to mould and mildew largely due to its exposed wood ingredients. In comparison, capped wood composite boards are sealed in a plastic shell, which increases its life span and protection.

How is Composite Decking Made?

All composite decking is made of a mixture of wood by-products— such as sawdust and wood chips—and recycled or virgin plastics. Most composite boards are made from recycled ingredients, which makes it an eco-friendly choice.

Composite boards are made using a process where its raw materials are combined and then melted to form a lumber shape in an extrusion process like making spaghetti. Some manufacturers also coat three sides of the board with a hard polypropylene or HDPE (High Density Polyethylene) shell to help protect the decking from fading over time.

Polypropylene is an ingredient commonly used in food packaging. It is known to provide great resistance to chemicals and fatigue.

Some new styles are a refined old version that does not have the capped cover and is deemed to be a harder surface. If the capped decking were to get damaged, you cannot repair it but with the uncapped you can sand and clean to repair it – be sure to ask Deck-Max about their version so you can better understand the difference.

How Much Does Composite Decking Cost

One primary drawback when choosing composite decking is its higher price tag. Composite decking costs between $80 to $250 + while natural wood costs $90 to $150 per square metre depending on the width and thickness of the boards.

However, the initial cost of composite decking can be offset over time. Natural wood decking tends to cost approx. $10 per square metre per year in maintenance, while composite decking only costs virtually $0 annually except the time to still wash down with soapy water subject to any physical damage.

Most wood decks require retreatment every two to five years. The process includes sanding, cleaning, staining, and sealing, which would quickly rack up costs. If left untreated, wooden decks will be more susceptible to fade and rot. This is what makes Deck-Max decking with hidden fixings such a great investment as the cost for retreatment is low.

On average, well-cared for wooden decks will last up to 20 years. However, it can splinter or warp due to elements or use. If choosing poor quality timber and nails or screws.

How Do You Maintain Composite Decks?

Composite decking is advertised as a maintenance-free choice. Unlike the traditional wooden decking, composite decks rarely require sanding, sealing, staining, or painting. But like wooden decking, composite boards need to be cleaned semi-annually.

It’s recommended to do this using a soapy water mixture and a low power washer or soft-bristled brush. Composite boards are made of durable materials that can last an average of 10 to 30 years depending on the brand you buy. Additionally, composite decks are resistant to insects, rot, scratch, splintering, stain, and UV light. However, it is not bullet proof and you need to take due care.

Why Should I Choose Composite Decking?

Composite deck products offer longevity and durability that most traditional wooden boards don’t. It can withstand severe weather conditions for decades without the need of any treatment or protection.

Creating multi-coloured outdoor spaces is also possible with composite deck products. Manufacturers often produce a wide variety of colours and textures that are perfect for creating dramatic looks.

When choosing composite be sure to understand the differences in the product you are looking at as you can buy cheap/ For example, Hollow core decking is simply cheaper because this Composite material is actually sold by the kilogram so by inserting hollows in the decking it makes it cheaper but with cheaper comes less quality and structural integrity – best advice is to buy solid boards.

Are you interested in composite decking? Click here or give us a call or send us an email today to get a quote!

In recent years, hidden deck fasteners have seen a rise in popularity.

This no nail deck fastening system gives homeowners a smooth and blemish-free deck while removing the risk of boards or nails popping due to weather changes.

Like all decking materials, hidden clips have limitations. In this article, we covered the five most important things you need to know when considering taking this option.

5 Important Things You Need To Know About Hidden Deck Clips

Hidden deck clips are great at solving issues associated with traditional methods of fastening boards to joists. Deck fasteners give deck surfaces a smooth and blemish-free look.

However, deck clips are not meant to be used on all types of deckings. An example is Pine decking.

Like all decking materials, hidden deck fasteners have some limitations. While deck clips may hold some materials down, certain projects require the stronger fastening capability of nails and screws. For example, Boardwalks and wharfs. But perfect for hardwoods, composite and bamboo.

In this article, we’ll explore the five things you need to know before you choose to use hidden fasteners for your next deck project.

1. Hidden deck clips will not give you gashes.

No nail deck fasteners are typically placed under or into the side of the decking boards by using pre-grooved, high-quality hardwoods like what Deck-Max sell. This reduces the time needed to pre-drill boards and having to align each material over a joist.

Fastening your decking using nails or screws can cause several issues, including popping nail heads that could become a tripping hazard or cause deep gashes on people walking barefoot over the deck.

With hidden deck fasteners, the risk of having boards or nails popping is greatly reduced. It also lessens the risk of splitting boards, which is very common when using screws and nails.

2. Hidden deck fasteners work best with narrower or thicker boards.

Temperature changes during winter or summer can cause the boards to expand or contract. This is where hidden deck fasteners come into their own as the clips from Deck-max allow the boards to move sideways and lengthways but retain the board flat to the surface.

Narrower deck boards are less likely to expand and contract less simply due to the lesser moisture percentage and simply less surface volume verses a wider board very important with Aussie Hardwoods.

We recommend only 90mm wide boards for Aussie hardwoods. This means the change in the gap between deck boards would be less noticeable. Additionally, narrower decking materials gain more fastening power per square meter.

Meanwhile, Deck-Max boards are more stable all round especially on the wider 135mm Merbau and Bamboo wide boards due to the extreme care and moisture control they apply to the process of manufacturing their hardwoods and bamboo decking.

3. Low clearance decks/decks closer to the ground

These decks require particularly important considerations for moisture control from rising moisture and air flow under these boards. This is where companies like Deck-max will do a discovery process with you to evaluate and determine the best design and protective measure for the longevity of the deck,

Decks close to ground will benefit from secret deck fixings as the board can expand and contract without cracking and splitting from nails or screws in the surface of the boards.

Be sure to speak to one of the experts at Deck-Max for full understanding of the location and best practice before you start building the deck – they also have Technical Data Sheets well respected as experts available for you to review in your research before making your final decision.

4. No Nail Decking Clips allow movement

Decking boards placed in the exterior area of a home are often exposed to severe weather changes, including heat, rain, and cold. These elements cause wood decking, composite decking and less so bamboo, to expand and contract, depending on the moisture content and ventilation under the deck.

Nails and screws are the last option you would select for this application as noted in other articles and above. The best way to understand why screws would be your last choice and deck clips your first is; decking boards will move by expansion and contraction, decking clips allow them to do this without damage to the boards themselves.

But, if you have nails and screws in the surface there is only one outcome. The boards MUST crack and split as they expand and contract, this also pushes the screws upwards causing a hazard.

Hidden fasteners by Deck-Max will not cause cracking and splitting as the clip in the groove simply moves with the board. This is because it is not screwed through the board but into the joist and the wing of the clip slides with the movement.

5. Hidden deck fasteners are not universal.

Some deck clip systems work better than others on specific decking materials. For example, hardwood decking products typically work best with hidden fasteners if they are pre-grooved. Softwood decking like pine decking, on the other hand, can either be screwed down.

Some systems also rely on extremely specific sizing of the board (90mm to be exact). This causes issues with fitting and retaining. As a result of this it is always best to have a consultation with experts on the topic.

Deck-Max have never had a single clip fail when installed correctly in the last 18 years of their history.

This is because we offer the highest quality pre-grooved decking with a one stop shop of clips, screws and other accessories, teamed with expertise and experience in hidden fasteners, resulting in the best outcome for all.

If you want more information about hidden decking fasteners click here. You can also call our offices 1300 306 660 to connect with a decking specialist to assist you with any enquiry.

Over the years, the idea of being eco-friendly and sustainable has grown in popularity. More and more people are considering making the switch from hardwood, plastic, or vinyl decking to more sustainable and low-fuss options like bamboo decking.

Bamboo is an all-natural and regenerative material that grows faster than most tree species (5 to 7 years growth cycle). The material’s fast growth rate makes it cheaper than other materials even though it’s more durable and tensile.

In this article, we covered all the reasons why bamboo decking is the best option for indoor and outdoor decks.

More and more people are switching to more eco-friendly, sustainable and green options in recent years, including food, clothes, and composite decks.

In more traditional times, most people would consider plastic, vinyl, and aluminium materials when building their decks. Over time, decks made of these materials see wear and tear that cannot be refurbished, leading many to turn to an often-overlooked alternative: bamboo.

Bamboo is an all-natural and incredibly regenerative material that grows three times faster than most tree species. While bamboo shares many attributes with hardwood, it is a more conventional material that is durable enough to last for a considerable amount of time.

Why should you pick bamboo decking?

It’s eco-friendly and more sustainable than hardwood.
Bamboo decking is processed from what is considered the world’s tallest grass, bamboo. This natural resource only takes four to six years to mature, making it highly renewable. In contrast, hardwood woodland regrowth takes anywhere between 30 to 50 years.

It’s fuss-free.
Bamboo decking is extremely easy to maintain. You can let it go natural as a low maintenance option OR Importantly you can refurbish this material.

Bamboo decking is also highly resistant to moisture, stains, and water damage. Therefore, you can clean your deck using a damp mop without any worries.

You can easily let your bamboo decking grey off. But, if you wish to refurbish, Deck-Max secret fixings make it super simple to re-oil and restore to brand new at any time!

It’s incredibly durable.
Researchers in Costa Rica have conducted several seismic tests on bamboo. The team of researchers found that among 30 houses, not one suffered structural damages even when located in the epicentre of a 7.6 magnitude earthquake. That means bamboo is more resistant to earthquakes than concrete and steel.

Bamboo has great tensile strength and is far more robust than the Sal Tree (Shorea Robusta) and the Teak (Tectona grandis). Bamboo is actually TWICE as hard as Merbau on the Janka Ratings. So, if you live in an area prone to earthquakes or any kind of extreme weather, bamboo would be the best choice.

It does not require pesticides.
Harvesters of bamboo require NO fertiliser or pesticide in the cycle of bamboo growth when farming this resource. This is because bamboos grow naturally and the leaf fall down creates its own mulch as a natural fertiliser and retains moisture therefore does not need irrigation to accelerate their growth. The removal of pesticides and other accelerants ensures that bamboos do not cause harm to nature and the human body. As if that wasn’t enough of a reason to choose bamboo, it is white ant resistant, which is perfect for the Australian environment.

It’s a competitively priced alternative.
Products used for bamboo decking are some of the most affordable materials on the market. Bamboo is comparable price wise to the popular hardwood choice. But it can be argued that bamboo offers a wider range of benefits for Deck lovers, particularly in Australia. As well as competitive pricing this decking is readily available from specialists such as Deck-Max, who provide secret fixings and screws to suit your frame of Steel or Timber.

Bamboo decking products are exceptionally durable. This means it’s far less prone to cracking or splintering than other wood alternatives. With proper care and maintenance, bamboo decking can easily last up to 30 years.

What are the different types of bamboo decking products?

There are three types of bamboo decking products you need to consider when buying materials, including:

Solid bamboo
Solid bamboo is the most preferred material for outdoor decks. These boards are made from solid lengths of bamboo that are heat treated, glued and laminated together under high pressure. This material is more stable and less likely to break apart. This product is warranted against this structural failure for 25 years.

This new technology in processing Bamboo (Mosso – Giant Bamboo) has now delivered the most amazing durable product to withstand the rigors of outdoors and around pools.

Especially important is that there are no tannins that can leach out of this decking that will stains walls and floors and especially pool deck copping, unlike hardwoods.

Strand woven
Strand woven bamboos are commonly seen in the indoor flooring market. The material is made of smaller chips of bamboo. This material is not recommended for a deck application as it is not designed to withstand extreme cold, heat, or moisture.

Composite bamboo
Bamboo and Composite decking – Often referred to as Bamboo Composite.

The use of bamboo powder is used extensively as a filler and a part of the materials with a plastic and minerals that then are sold as a Wood Plastic Decking – in this case the wood part is bamboo and sometimes rice husk.

If you are interested in learning more about bamboo decking, contact us today and get a quick quote to get you started.

Who doesn’t want more space in their home? Having extra space easily adds value to your property. Have you ever thought of an outside decking area? Maybe you need more room for your family to hang out, entertaining guests, a peaceful escape at the end of the day, or a dining area, extra living area, and general chill space.

Having a deck can give you all of these things, without the time and expense that comes with adding an extra room or extending into loft space! It doesn’t take much to turn a neglected garden space into an integral part of your home. And, a decking area doesn’t just have to be limited to a space between your pool and your door. With some planning and imagination, your deck could be so much more.

Deck-Max can help you turn your unloved garden space into a decking awesome place to hang out! Here are some simple ideas to get you dreaming about the deck you could have.

Flow

The key to making your deck the perfect nap zone, hang out and entertaining space is keeping in connection with your house. You want the inside space to flow nicely through to the outside space. A brilliant way to do this is with doors. Using glass double doors, or even bifold doors will give that flow to your home. Bifold doors create the perfect illusion. You could expand your kitchen to the outside and have an outside dining area, perfect for family dinners and entertaining guests! Or keep it casual with a BBQ and some beers. Change it up and deck it out for a more formal dinner party. You can easily change it up from an everyday use space to a special occasion venue!

Insect Proofing

One of the issues with outside space – insects! It's enough to put off anyone from hanging outside. But, it doesn’t have to be. You can easily kit out your outside space with retractable blinds, screens and drapes to keep the pesky little bugs at bay.

Rainfall

It even rains in Oz. But that doesn’t mean your deck has to be out of action in the wetter months. Your deck can be used all year round, not just for your Christmas cook up! A retractable roof or canopy can easily be added to ensure your outside space stays dry, allowing your outside space to be used all year round!  

Power

To truly turn out an outdoor space into an indoor-outdoor space, it's useful to add lighting and electrical ports. This may cost a little more but will be a good investment. You can use your deck all night long, play music, charge your phones and other devices, plus so much more. Your outside space will merge nicely into your inside space, meaning that there will be no need to venture inside, as everything you need will be right there on your deck.

Read more: Deck Design – Furniture, lighting and screening

We hope this helps you spark some ideas for your deck design.

For years, Deck-Max has been at the forefront of innovation within the timber decking industry. In the past, most of our products have revolved around hardwood timber decking. However, Deck-Max is not purely a timber decking company. We are a decking materials company. For those already in the industry, it comes as no surprise that there are more options out there for decking materials than traditional hardwoods. Other decking materials include the exciting, new composite timber decking, beautiful bamboo, and even steel. Here, we will go over these different timber decking and other decking materials in a review type style.

Treated Pine for Timber Decking

Treated pine has long been the standard for timber decking projects in Australia and other parts of the world. It has always been a stable, relatively low-cost decking material. It is estimated that some 80% or so of decking is, in fact, treated pine. Pine is not a hardwood like other timber decking materials. Instead, it is a dense softwood with chemical preservatives forced into its fibres. The chemical treatment varies based on the particular brand of treated pine you are purchasing, and the specifications do vary between the many different kinds. The chemical treatment to the pine allow it to be suitable for use both in and out of the ground. As it is the most common construction material for decking, it is available in several different sizes to meet all standards and requirements.

Some important things that you should keep in mind for safety when working with treated pine include:

• Wear gloves, long pants, and a long-sleeved shirt
• Wear safety glasses
• Wear a mask to cover your mouth and nose
• Do not burn scraps
• Do not allow children or pets to play with scraps
• Follow local regulations in regards to disposing of toxic materials

Hardwood Timber Decking

 

Where treated pine is relatively inexpensive and readily available, hardwoods for timber decking can be quite the opposite. Hardwoods are not as plentiful and are harder to cut and manufacture. As a result, the various hardwoods available for decking materials are more costly and can be limited in supply. If you are considering using hardwood, be sure that it is within your budget and that your supplier can deliver all the necessary quantities. In fact, it is recommended that you have all of your timber delivered before starting on your timber decking project. Failing to do so could have you starting on your construction only to find out partway through that the order you made will not be filled for quite some time. No one wants to have a deck half-finished while waiting for the timber to show up or trying to find a replacement.

The other issue is, if you get your timber in multiple shipments, it is more likely that the pieces are from different batches. This could make a difference in density, composition, strength, or colouration. Worse, if the supply completely dries up, you may end up having to go in a completely different direction, choosing a different style timber for the job. In this case, hopefully, you haven’t already started laying the timber decking, so you don’t have any to rip up so that the whole deck will match. So, take it from us, get your timber delivered ahead of time.

Deck-Max carries a variety of hardwoods for our discerning clients. The reason for this is because, while more costly than treated pine, the material is of better quality. In terms of being of better quality, we look at it from a few different angles. First, from the overall appearance. Hardwoods simply look better than the inexpensive, mass-produced treated pine. Second, the hardwoods are stronger. They will support more weight and last longer than treated pine when properly maintained.

Aside from the associated monetary cost with purchasing hardwood timber decking, there is an increased cost in labour. The denser material makes it harder to work with the hardwoods, which typically drives the time of construction upwards. However, we fully believe that the end cost is worth it when you want a beautiful deck you can be proud of and that will last through the years.

Deck-Max currently offers Merbau, Spotted Gum, Black Butt, Iron Bark, and Blue Gum end-match timber decking.

Steel Decking Materials

Steel decking materials are sometimes used for the support structure of a given deck. This is especially true for commercial projects, coastal areas, and inclement weather (high wind) areas. Some structures will actually be required by local regulation to have the support made from steel. The process has come a long way of the years. The steel components are typically manufactured to have joining brackets and be exact measurements. The pieces will need to be ordered and delivered ready to use, as it is not really prudent to try and cut steel on-premises. With these jobs, using the brackets and appropriate bolting and fastening methods, very little or no welding is required.

Composite Timber Decking

 

A relatively new addition to the decking materials family, composite decking offers advantages that others cannot. Composite timber decking is—as its name would imply—comprised of several materials to make a single board. Composite timber decking is only engineered with the intention of serving as decking boards and trim pieces. It has not been engineered to be strong enough to serve as support structure components for the deck.

Composite decking is made from a mixture of waste wood and recycled plastic with a variety of chemical binders. These boards are light and easy to work with. They come in a variety of gorgeous colours. They require no staining. Most also come with a warranty against fading and staining, if properly maintained. Composite timber decking is cut, drilled, and installed just like other forms of timber decking. You also need not worry about harmful chemicals as what is used with the treat pine decking.

The one major downside to the composite timber decking is the cost. This does tend to be an expensive alternative to other timber decking solutions. The reason is multifold but mainly has to do with the manufacturing cost. One thing to keep in mind, however, is the ease of working with and maintaining the composite decking. You will not be spending the money on finishes over the years, because it is pre-coated. You also have a warranty that is unsurpassed by other timber decking materials. You can look forward to a Deck-Max composite timber decking offering in the very near future.

Bamboo Decking Materials

While bamboo is a type of wood, it is rarely considered timber. Bamboo offers a number of advantages. It is relatively inexpensive. Its natural colour and sheen are coveted for a variety of indoor and outdoor projects. It is also a low maintenance product.

For those who have taken the time to consider the environmental effects of deforestation, bamboo decking presents an excellent solution. Where other timber decking comes from trees that must grow for several decades before being cut down, with millions of acres being lost every day, bamboo comes from trees that are usually harvested between 5 and 8 years. It grows swiftly, produces more oxygen than other types of trees. Overall, it is a more environmentally friendly decking material.

The major problem with bamboo decking is that it has shown repeated issues in the harsh Australian climates. It simply does not last as long as other forms of timber decking. It is pre-disposed to wear and rot. On the other hand, it has a high tensile strength and shows the flexibility that is coveted in outdoor project timbers.

However, Deck-Max bamboo decking does not suffer from the same failures as traditional bamboo decking. It comes pre-finished, too. That is saved time and money right there, but wait until we can tell you more about this fantastic new product. It is an expertly engineered product sure to take the decking industry by storm.

Deck-Max Timber Decking Innovations

 

Once again, Deck-Max innovation leads to solving a problem tradesmen have been facing for years. The Deck-Max bamboo decking materials are sure to please. Just like our Original and Pro Deck-Max decking biscuits, we are hard at work finding new and better ways to build that deck. Saving you time and money is our business.

If you have not yet discovered the Deck-Max difference and you are serious about building your own timber decking or you are in the trades, you owe it to yourself to check out the advancements we have brought to the industry. Our “no nails” solution for timber decking is revolutionary. Plus, we only keep coming out with more, too.

In an effort to continue our education in regards to timber decking, we have written this article as a reference for timber deck fixings. This should help you understand what goes into building their own timber decking as we explain the different components of a timber deck. At the same time, we touch on the reasoning behind some of the things you must keep in mind when building a timber deck. As always, we open ourselves to you for your questions or comments. Read on below for more information and do not forget to drop us a line with your thoughts and questions.

Timber Deck Fixings

 

Most timber decks are going to be outdoor structures. As such, it is imperative that you choose the appropriate type of timber for your decking projects. They need to be able to withstand the harsh rigours of the elements over time. This goes for the timber decking as well as the supporting timber. Timbers that will be in the ground or have contact with the ground should have a natural durability rating of one or two in-ground contact. They might also have a preservative treatment rated at H4. For timber decking that will be above ground, it is strongly recommended to have an outside above ground natural durability of 1 or 2. Similarly, these above ground timber decking materials may have a preservative treating of H3. Suitable hardwoods for outdoor timber decking in Australia include Blackbutt, Blue gum, Ironbark, Merbau, River red gum, Spotted gum, Tallowwood, Turpentine, Treated pine and Cypress.

Timber Posts

Rather than placing timber posts directly within the foundation, it is recommended to use support post stirrups. These galvanized accessories will keep the posts off the ground, which serves a few purposes. First, it limits the time the posts spend sitting in water. Concrete is designed to retain some moisture. For a support post within that concrete, it means faster rot. At the same time, by keeping the timber decking support posts off the ground, it is limiting the chance of termite infestation. This also helps to protect the rest of your home by not serving as a bridge for the termites to get into your house. This is a concern even with treated timber. In any event, a termite barrier should be used around the posts for your timber decking.

Timber Decking Profiles

Another consideration you will need to make when building your timber deck is the timber decking profile. There are three options. The first is the plain profile. This is a squared surface on all edges, with right angles at each corner. The next option is the pencil round profile. This is similar to the plain timber decking profile, except each of the corners has been slightly rounded. Alternatively, a reeded profile for your timber decking has one flat, wide side with rounded edges like the pencil round profile. The other wide side of the reeded profile is ridged. There are several rumours regarding whether it matters which side of the reeded profile timber decking is facing up or down, but these are just rumours. It does not matter whether the ridged side is up or down when it comes to the structural stability or longevity of your timber decking. Instead, as with the other forms of timber decking profiles, it makes only a cosmetic difference.

Timber Decking Spacing

 

When laying your timber decking, it is also important to space out each of the boards from one another. Throughout the seasons, timber decking boards will soak up and expel moisture. This is true whether the timber is treated or not. Even when sealed or coated, the spacing between timber decking must be sufficient enough to allow for the expansion that the boards will undergo repetitively through the seasons.

The exact spacing needed for timber decking boards depends on the specific timber you will be using. Your timber decking supplier should provide you with the manufacturer’s specifications regarding board spacing based on the type of timber used for your deck. Otherwise, the spacing needed is based on the type of timber, the size of the timber, and whether it is treated or untreated.

For timber decking boards less than 100 millimetres in width, the following provides a brief summary of recommended spacing:

• Softwood & Seasoned should have 4 to 5mm.
• Softwood & Unseasoned should have 3 to 4mm.
• Hardwood & Seasoned should have 3 to 4mm.
• Hardwood & Unseasoned should have 3 to 4mm.

Timber Decking & Joists Fixings

For an outdoor timber deck, it is common practice to use hot-dipped, galvanized nails, screws, and bolts. You may also opt for stainless steel or a similar variety. Two nails in a decking board to fasten to a joist should be staggered, not creating a single line. This will reduce the chance of a single line of nails creating the chance for split timber decking over time. The nails or screws should also not be driven straight down into the joist. Instead, they should be driven at opposite angles, toward one another, so as to increase the holding capacity of the nails, screws, or other fasteners.

There are nails and screws that have been designed in such a way so as to have their heads stick out above the top of the decking board. This is the design, and they are made to enhance the attractiveness of the timber decking. Others are designed so as to be driven down below the surface of the timber decking. If you use a nail or screw that is driven down below the surface of the board, this will create a void. That void should be filled with the appropriate filler. This will limit the moisture that collects in that area as well as the subsequent staining of the boards over time.

Be sure not to place the nails too close to the end of the board. By keeping the nails away from the edge, you will limit the chance of the boards splitting during construction and over time. It is also recommended to pre-drill the holes for the nails when attaching the end of the timber decking board to the joist. Depending on your deck design, you may have butt joists. If you do, be sure to avoid placing these butt joists next to one another under adjacent timber decking boards. Placement of the butt joists should be more random to prevent from weakening the structure of the deck.

You essentially have the choice to help protect the top of your timber decking joists. The first is to lay on a liquid coating to help seal and protect the joists—a lot like a pre-stain. The other option is to affix a protective strip to the top edge of the decking joists, which will help protect. These are specially designed, and you most likely would need to ask your local supplier for them rather than pick them up off the shelf. In any event, you will apply the protective method you have selected before you place and fasten the timber decking boards to the joists.

The AS 1684 Residential Timber Frame Construction Standard provides the minimum requirements for the spacing, size and grade of bearers and joists and the minimum requirements for the thickness, span, grade and fastenings for decking boards.

Attaching Timber Decking Boards to Steel Joists

Many will try to attach their timber decking board to steel joists. This method is seldom successful. The problem is, the screws have not been designed to last in fastening timber to steel. During periods of high humidity, the timber decking boards will expand. When the boards expand, the design of the screws does not allow them to compress. Instead, the screws will sheer and fail. Instead, if you need to use steel joists on a timber deck, you will want to affix a timber batten just above or beside the steel joist. You can then fasten the timber decking boards to the batten.

Finishing the Timber Decking

It is standard practice to apply at least a single coating of sealant to all sides of the timber decking board, especially any freshly cut edge. This is most often done before placing the decking boards on the joists and fastening them in place. The protective coating you apply should pierce the surface of the timber as well as leave a film on the outside of the timber. This protective coating will help to protect any timber from weathering. This goes for both treated and untreated timbers. This coating will limit the amount of moisture absorbed and expelled by the timber decking. Additionally, this coating should also contain a fungicide to prevent mould from growing on any of the sugars or starches used in the composition of the coating.

Timber Decking Tannin Bleed

Most timber decking will contain a water-soluble extract that helps to colour the timber. The extractive also helps to prevent the timber decking from decaying. When moisture exits the timber decking, there is a chance for this compound to be drawn to the surface and out of the timber, which will cause discolouration. As the compound is water-soluble, it can run off onto other surfaces. This is known as tannin bleed and can be quite difficult to remove from brick and concrete. The chances of this happening can be lessened by applying a quality protective coating to all timber decking surfaces.

Timber Decking Resin Bleed

Some softwood species of timber—particularly some forms of pine—may be prone to resin bleed. If you can detect this before building your timber decking, avoid using those boards as part of your deck. If you must use those boards as part of the timber deck, put them in an area where the resin bleed will not be so much of an issue. It is possible that the resin bleed issue with a board will go undetected until the timber deck is fully built. If that is the case, the resin can be cleaned up easily enough or the board can be replaced. If it was not detected at first, the resin bleed will generally appear after the timber decking has been exposed to hot weather.

Bushfire Resistant Timber Decking

AS 3959 – 1999 Construction in Bushfire Prone Areas, permits fire-retardant-treated-timber to be used in certain bushfire prone areas where the use of timber externally is otherwise not permitted. Included in the definition of fire-retardant-treated-timber are timber species which meet specified parameters without having to be subjected to a fire-retardant treatment. A number of species have been tested.

Seven Hardwood species have been shown to meet the parameters. They are: Blackbutt, Spotted gum, Red ironbark, Turpentine, River red gum, Silvertop ash and Merbau

 

One of the most important things to think about when starting to build your own timber deck—actually, before beginning the construction—is to make sure you have the proper tools. As the old saying goes: “The right tool for the right job.” Many DIYers already know the importance of having the right tools on hand for any job they are about to undertake. Others believe they have the right tools, yet find themselves making unexpected trips to the hardware store. Some believe that the tools they have will work, even if they aren't designed for the exact task they have in mind. While it might work, they often do not realise what the end cost will be.

If you are looking to construct your own timber deck, you may want to have a look over this list. These are some of the most common tools you will find in any timber decking construction project. There are some other, more unique tools for specific jobs, but this list covers just about everything from start to finish.

Tools for your timber decking project might be considered materials, but the big difference is that tools are supposed to last. They should last through the entire job. There are some that will wear away and break such as saw blades and drill bits—but, when used properly—the drill and saw should make through this job and many more.

1. Measuring Device

One of the first things you will find yourself in need of is a measuring device. A standard 25-metre measuring tape is going to be your best friend. This will be used to make most of your measurements. For ease of use, you may also consider a smaller, 8-metre tape measure. This will take care of the smaller tasks. For larger measures, you may want to consider surveyor’s tape. This is the flexible plastic kind that winds up. We'd recommend buying a nice quality tape measure. You do not want the bargain brand that is likely to break on you sometime during the timber deck construction. Higher quality brands will bring a bit of peace of mind, as you can be more sure that they were made with stricter standards, and thus will provide you with more accurate measurements.

2. Line Marker and Line Level

When measuring, you will also find it necessary to have a line marker and line level. You should buy a good quality line marker and level—the kind that uses the refillable chalk dye. This way you can use it over and over again, and it will be good for more than just this job. There are some quality line marker and level sets, where the level is part of the entire device. This is a good investment. This way you will not end up displacing one of the two—they will always be together. If you have not used one of these before, be sure to ask your supplier for some instruction. It can be easy to misuse such a tool. The importance of the line marker and level is for making sure items from one side of the deck to the other are level with one another. This is highly important and it is easy to make a mistake if you have not done it before. Be sure to familiarise yourself with the workings of the line marker and level before commencing with the construction of your timber decking.

3. Shovel

When building a timber deck, you are going to have a need for some shovels. There are two kinds of shovels you will want. The first is a flat-headed, square, or pan head shovel. The flat design and broad mouth of this type of shovel is ideal for clearing out the area for the base of your timber decking. This can also help in trying to shape holes for posts and for mixing and transporting wet concrete. You will also want a rounded or spade style shovel that is made for piercing the earth. This is going to help you get started with the perimeter for your timber deck as well as assist with digging holes for posts and mixing and transporting concrete.

4. Post hole digger

A post hole digger will be of great advantage to you when digging the holes for your timber decking posts. This works well with sandy, loamy, and clay-filled areas. There may be times when a post hole digger is less than ideal based on the type of soil you are working with, and you may have to fall back to using a shovel. If possible, however, use the post hole digger as it will save you a lot of time. In fact, when digging for your posts and piers, you may find it useful to mark the post hole digger with some colourful tape, so you know when your hole has reached the right depth.

5. Sawhorse

If you do not have a sawhorse yet, go get one. In fact, get two. These are great inventions, which are going to help you a lot. Get an adjustable set, and make sure they are made of sturdy aluminium or steel. Of course, the steel ones are a bit more expensive. A sawhorse is going to come in handy when cutting wood for your timber decking, making measurements, and they often help support joining pieces when putting together framework. For framing, some will use as many as three or four sawhorses at a time.

6. Extension Cord

Here is one we often overlook until the last minute—an extension cord. Do not try using one of the cheap, indoor extension cords either. Instead, invest in a good 16 gauge or better extension cord designed for outdoor use. They have thicker shielding and carry the current better. Some even have built-in surge protectors. That is a nice little investment when you are working with expensive tools like saws and drills. Also, make sure the extension cords you use are long enough for your timber decking project. It is worth the investment to have one long extension cord rather than two that are daisy-chained together. It is safer and better with only one cord between the power supply and tool.

7. Saw

Saws. It is going to be impossible to build a timber deck without a saw. You may have more than one saw. Some will use a table saw if they have one. Meanwhile, a decent circular saw is invaluable when you are working on a timber decking project. A standard 185-millimetre circular saw should handle most jobs you run into while dealing with your timber decking. This can be used to cut railings, planks, joists, and more. You are almost assuredly going to go through at least a few blades, so be sure to stock up on extras.

8. Square or T-square

A square or T-square will be essential in your timber decking adventures. This is what you are going to use to verify that the frame and any steps you build for your deck are, in fact, square. It is also a good idea to use a flashlight in conjunction with a square to help verify your findings. In fact, many hardware shops sell coloured lenses for small flashlights that are used for just this sort of purpose.

9. Hammer

There are a few types of hammers you will need when working on your timber decking. In building your own deck, you will want a framing hammer, a finishing hammer, and a rubberwood mallet. The framing hammer will most likely see the most use. You will want a heavier style, so nails can be driven in deep and fast to fasten frames, joists and similar, hidden bits of the construction. The framing hammer is the one with a textured head, which is designed that way to grip the nail heads better. The finishing hammer has a smooth face, so it does not mar the surface of the wood when driving in nails in the proper fashion. The finishing hammer is what you will want to use whenever needing to nail something in place on a side of the timber decking that will be visible. The rubberwood mallet will be used to help align joists, planks, and more. You will also use this when you are working with any sort of wooden plug to hide the appearance of screws in a visible surface.

10. Level

Also, be sure to use a level when working on your deck. You can use a traditional, liquid-filled level, or you can use a digital version. Nowadays, you can even choose one that uses a laser to level things further apart, but those are pretty costly. Stick with a traditional bubble or newer digital level to help make sure everything on your timber decking is perfectly level. Remember, you are going to measure the levelness from side to side, front to back, and diagonally (both ways).

11. Utility Knife

A utility knife will come in handy when building a timber deck. You will need to open a variety of packages, cut strings, mark wood, and more. A knife will come in more handy than you might expect when first going over the plans. Be sure to pick up one that will last.

12. Tin Snips

If you are going to use aluminium flashing for your ledger boards—most do—you are going to need some tin snips. This is definitely one of those things you want to be sure you have the right tool for. Using the wrong tool here is going to ruin that tool, take too long, and could even lead to injury. Trust us on the tin snips.

13. Pry Bar

A flat pry bar is also going to be useful to you. When you are building your own timber deck, a pry bar can be used to help align the decking. You may also make a mistake here and there, and a pry bar is going to help you unmake those mistakes quickly.

14. Ratchet Spanner

A ratchet spanner or spanning ratchet is going to help out with a few things on your timber deck. This tool will work for fastening bolts and nuts. You may want two—one for each side, but that is a personal choice. Typically, you will use this for attaching ledger boards, railing, and sometimes even posts.

15. Caulking Gun

One thing we often see people forget until they get very near the end of building their own timber deck is a caulking gun. You will definitely want to be sure you have one or two of these on hand. A caulking gun will be useful when trying to apply glue or silicone in various situations during the construction process.

16. Drill

Of course, you will also need a drill. We recommend using a corded power drill for most everything, especially the heavier jobs. On light, quick drilling needs during timber deck construction, a good battery-powered drill will also work. The drills should use the same head. Also, whenever using a battery drill, we always recommend having two batteries—one in the drill and one charging. This way, you will not get in the middle of something and then need to wait for a charge. You are going to burn out a few drill bits most likely, so be sure to have some spares of those as well.

17. Clamp

Another awesome and helpful tool in the timber decking building process is a clamp. Get the right size, quick release clamps and you will find framing and even laying timber decking planks to be so much easier. One man can do the work of two or three with these clamps.

18. Paintbrushes

You will also end up needing some paintbrushes when it comes time to finish your timber decking. You will need some buckets to go along with that to put the brushes in. Again, have some spares.

19. Wheelbarrow

Another thing you may find helpful in building a timber deck is a wheelbarrow. This will come in handy for hauling things around the yard and is often the method of choice for mixing concrete if you do not invest in a concrete mixer. If nothing else, some heavy-duty utility buckets should do the trick.

20. Portable work table

In almost all cases, a portable work table is a great investment. You can put your plans and tools here while not in use, but soon to be used. This can also keep other things you may want to keep off the ground such as a drink or phone.

As always, be sure you have the right tools for the right job. If you want to see a great way on how to have the best looking deck around and save time and money in doing so, be sure to check out the No Nail timber decking solution by Deck-Max.

Are you in the process of adding a deck to your home? Here are 8 reasons to use Deck-Max when building your deck.

We provide more than just Decking: We provide solutions

We are known as the world’s leading company for Decking. Here at Deck-Max, we aim to provide the best personal and economical solutions to suit your needs. We are continually developing new ideas, products and services that shape, supplement and extend the services that we provide.

We provide you with competent advice

The Deck-Max Advisers are experts in every aspect of decking, from composite and hardwood decking to secret fixing and correct installation. Our advisers are here to help you from the initial quote to the end delivery, including helping you choose materials and design. Deck-Max provides competent and individual advice to help you make the right decking solution.

We provide you with individual services

No matter whether you are a Builder, Project Planner, Architect, Handyman or are planning to DIY, Deck-Max is ready to support you with an individual service to suit your needs. From the first contact, Deck-Max is with you every step of the way.

We will provide you with the best range available

Our range consists of more than 70 items, that can all be found on our website alongside a range of educational videos. As manufacturers, we believe it important to have strong relationships with our suppliers, ensuring that our product range is continuously updated. We listen to the market in order to create solutions that allow us to set trends as market leaders.

We offer you fair prices

At Deck-Max, we ask the best of our suppliers, allowing them to deliver to us the best product for the best price. Guaranteed.

We promptly deal with your orders with care

Our sales team always endeavour to accept your orders, process them immediately and have the products delivered punctually from our main dispatch and warehouse, meaning that your delivery is packed well, quick and reliable.

We help you to save time and money

With Deck-Max you benefit from the best advice, simple ordering, unique products and a wide range of products. Combined, this helps you save time, labour and best of all, leaves more money in your pocket.

We are your guarantee of more profitability

Using Deck-Max gives you the confidence of having the best products, advice, services, prices, delivery and processing. Quality assurance is a matter of course at Deck-Max and we are continuously improving.

Contact Deck-Max Today