One of the first questions we hear from homeowners is how much their deck will cost. The honest answer is that it depends on a lot of factors, but we can walk you through the main ones so you have a realistic picture before you start getting quotes. This guide is based on current Melbourne market pricing and our own experience building decks across the western suburbs, Bayside, and the Mornington Peninsula.
What the materials actually cost
Timber decking materials in Melbourne typically range from around $200 per square metre for treated pine through to $400 or more per square metre for premium hardwoods like spotted gum or ironbark. Merbau sits somewhere in between and remains one of the most popular choices for Melbourne homeowners because of its natural oils, rich colour, and durability in our climate.
Composite decking materials generally start from around $350 per square metre and can go higher depending on the brand and profile. The upfront cost is more than most timbers, but the trade-off is virtually zero ongoing maintenance over a 25-year lifespan.
Labour and installation
Labour costs for deck installation in Melbourne generally range from $50 to $120 per square metre depending on the complexity of the build. A straightforward ground-level deck on a flat block will sit at the lower end. A raised deck with multiple levels, stairs, built-in seating, or lighting will sit higher.
Subfloor construction is often where costs surprise people. The framework underneath your deck is just as important as the boards on top. Posts, bearers, joists, and all the associated hardware need to be specified correctly for your site conditions, and that labour adds up. We never cut corners on subfloor work because it determines how long your deck actually lasts.
What drives the price up or down
Several factors influence the final cost beyond just materials and labour. Sloping blocks require more subfloor work and sometimes retaining walls. Access to the site matters too. If materials need to be carried through a house or down a steep embankment, that adds time and labour.
The shape of the deck plays a role as well. Straight rectangular decks are the most efficient to build. Curved edges, angled cuts, and complex shapes generate more waste and take longer to install. Balustrades, if required by regulation or by choice, add both material and labour costs.
Demolition and removal of an old deck is another cost that people sometimes overlook. If there is an existing structure that needs to come out first, that work needs to be quoted separately.
Want a realistic quote for your deck? We visit your site, measure up, and put together a detailed breakdown with no obligation.
Get a Free QuoteGetting the best value from your deck build
The best way to get value from a deck build is to be clear about what you want before the quoting process starts. Know your preferred material, have a rough idea of the size you are after, and think about what extras matter to you, whether that is lighting, steps, or built-in planters.
We quote every project individually based on a site visit. We measure up, discuss your vision, and put together a detailed quote that breaks everything down. There are no hidden costs and no surprises. That is how we have always worked and it is why our clients come back.