1. What are the regulations for fixed screens and overlooking in Victoria?
In Victoria, building regulations require that fixed screens used for overlooking must have at least 75% block-out, meaning no more than 25% of the screen can be open. This is important when planning decking projects in Melbourne homes that may overlook neighbours.
For full details, see the Building Regulations 2006 – Regulation 419.
2. What do standard timber abbreviations mean?
When buying decking timber in Melbourne, you may come across the following terms:
- L.O.S.P – Light Organic Solvent Preservative
- K.D – Kiln Dried (lower moisture, more stable timber)
- F.O.H.C – Free of Heart Centre
- F-rating – Structural strength rating (F5, F7, F17, F27)
- C.C.A – Chromate Copper Arsenate treatment
- D.A.R – Dressed All Round
- F.J – Finger Jointed
- Lam – Laminated timber sections
- Supadeck – Timber thicker than 20mm or wider than 90mm
- R.S – Rough Sawn
- MGP – Machine Graded Pine
- TanE – Tannin Extract Treatment
3. What is a Janka rating in decking timber?
The Janka rating measures how hard a timber is, showing its resistance to wear, dents, and pressure. This helps customers choose the best timber for decking in Melbourne, depending on durability needs.
4. What are timber durability classes?
Timber is grouped into classes from 1 (most durable) to higher numbers (less durable). For outdoor decking in Melbourne, Class 1 and Class 2 hardwoods such as Merbau, Spotted Gum, and Ironbark are excellent options.
5. Do you offer decking timber delivery in Melbourne and Australia?
Yes. We deliver decking timber and supplies across Melbourne Monday to Friday.
We can also ship screens and lighter items Australia-wide. For interstate orders or large commercial projects, please contact us for a delivery quote.
6. What’s the difference between G.R.C. and solid cast products?
G.R.C. (Glass Fibre Reinforced Cement) is a lightweight, strong, and non-corrosive material, making it ideal for decorative outdoor panels.
Solid Cast is heavier, made from cement, stone aggregate, and additives for durable outdoor structures.
7. What is the best decking material in Melbourne?
The best decking material depends on your budget, style preference, and durability needs. Popular options include:
- Merbau decking – Affordable, strong, and attractive hardwood
- Spotted Gum decking – Australian native hardwood with natural resistance
- Ironbark decking – Extremely durable Class 1 timber
- Blackbutt decking – Stylish, light-coloured hardwood
- Composite decking – Low-maintenance alternative, perfect for modern homes
If you’re looking for long-lasting outdoor timber decking in Melbourne, Merbau remains one of the most popular choices.
8. What are the best options for sub-floor stumps in decking?
The most commonly used materials for sub-floor stumps are:
- H4 Treated Pine – Affordable and durable
- Cypress Pine – Naturally termite resistant
- Concrete stumps – Strong and long-lasting for large decks
9. How should I clean and seal my deck?
Proper maintenance is key to extending the life of your timber decking in Melbourne’s weather conditions.
- Allow new timber to acclimatise outdoors for a few months
- Clean with a quality decking cleaner and a stiff brush
- Seal with oils or acrylic finishes for UV and water resistance
Recommended products include Nature’s Timber Oil and Cutek Extreme CD50, both designed for Australian hardwood decking.
10. How do I fix decking boards?
For a long-lasting deck:
- Avoid using nail guns
- Pre-drill and fix boards with galvanised, chemshield, or stainless steel screws
- For hardwood decking over 35mm thick, use 12G × 65mm screws
This ensures a secure, durable finish for both Merbau decking and other hardwoods.
11. Where can I find more information on decking care?
We provide a Decking Fact Sheet with detailed advice on durability, care, and maintenance for Merbau decking and Australian hardwoods. Contact our team for expert guidance on choosing and maintaining your decking timber.