Timber deck
A deck quote is the frame, the footings, the boards, the fixings and any balustrade. The decking calculator counts boards across a width. It does not size the joists or price the builder.
Height above ground changes footings, rails and whether a building consent or approval is required. Ask that question before you compare totals.
This guide does not publish a dollar figure. We only print a price when a government agency, industry body or manufacturer has published a rate we can link to. Use the factors and the questions when you compare quotes.
What changes the price
- Height and footings. A deck on the ground and a deck off an upper door are different structures.
- Board species and gaps. Hardwood, treated pine and composite boards do not cost the same and do not span the same. Gaps are part of the layout.
- Balustrade and stairs. These are often a large share of the job once the deck is off the ground. Say if you need them.
- Fixings and finish. Hidden fixings, oil and paint should be named. A bare deck and a finished deck are different.
- Attachments to the house. A ledger fixed to the house has to be flashed so water does not get into the wall.
Questions to ask
- What is the finished height, and are footings included?
- Which board, what gap, and what fixing?
- Are stairs and a balustrade included?
- Is a consent or approval required, and who lodges it?
- Is oil or paint included?
- How is the junction with the house flashed?
Common questions
Does the board count include the frame?
No. It is the number of decking boards across the width you enter, plus the linear metres of those boards. Joists, bearers and posts are the builder's design.
Why no timber price?
Retail timber prices move and do not include footings or labour. We do not have a citable installed rate.