Hardwood Decking
Hardwood Decking in Hobart
Spotted gum and merbau — the deck most people picture when they picture a deck. Needs a bit of yearly care in return.
The classic choice
Real timber, real character, real upkeep
There’s a reason hardwood is still the default a lot of people picture: the grain, the colour, the way it ages. Spotted gum and merbau are the two Ryan works with most, both dense, durable timbers suited to outdoor use.
The trade-off is maintenance. Left unoiled, hardwood greys off within a year or two — that’s not damage, just UV exposure, but it means committing to at least an occasional oil if you want to keep the colour. If low maintenance matters more than the timber look, composite decking is worth comparing.
Not sure how often that oiling actually needs to happen? See how often a Hobart deck needs oiling for a straight answer.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Which hardwood is best for a Hobart deck?
- Spotted gum and merbau are the two most commonly used hardwoods for decking in Tasmania, both chosen for their durability and resistance to the weather Hobart gets through winter. Ryan will talk through which suits your budget and the look you’re after.
- How much maintenance does hardwood decking need?
- Hardwood generally needs oiling roughly once a year to keep its colour and protect it from the weather — skip it for a few years and it will grey and can start to check (surface cracking), though it stays structurally sound.
- Is hardwood decking more expensive than composite?
- It depends on the species and grade. Some hardwood options land below composite, others above — but hardwood carries an ongoing maintenance cost composite doesn’t, which is worth factoring into the real long-term price.
Want the timber look done properly?
Get a quote for a hardwood deck built to last, with honest advice on the upkeep involved.
Get a Free Quote