Q. What type of timbers do you use?
Only Australian Hardwood - Spotted gum and Iron bark.

Q. Why do you use these timbers?
Durability and strength, but most of all the appearance.

Q. Tell me about colour consistency
A. Timber is a natural product. As such its colour will vary depending on the species, the size of the tree, the location in which it grew, soils, climate, whether it's from a coastal or inland location and a host of other factors. Generally speaking, plantation and coastal timbers are more consistent in colour than old growth and inland timbers. Old growth timbers and timbers from larger trees are darker than new timbers.

Q. Are old timbers more stable?
A. Yes and no. Timbers cup and bend for 2 main reasons. (a) because of different moisture levels on either side of a board; and (b) when a timber section is cut close to the heart or core. Old timbers tend to be taken from very large trees, the grain pressures have stabilised and they have had a lifetime to try and bend. Problems can however occur, even with the stable old timbers, if they are re-sawn across the heartwood.

Q. Where does the timber come from?
A. The Australian timber industry is now highly regulated. Most new NSW timbers are sourced from eucalypt plantations. Qld still mills some old growth timbers. It is however very limited and restricted by the issue of Qld government leases. In Victoria the story is much the same as Qld, though the volume of plantation timber is quite substantial. The volume of available Australian hardwood timbers has decreased very substantially in the last 10 years and is very closely monitored in accordance with state forestry practices.

Q: Where can I site my deck?
A:Timber decks are marvellously flexible structures that can be located to suit you, your family and the property you live in. Whether you want to enjoy your deck in a sunny open site, have it as a garden island a combined balcony and veranda, or in an intimate, shady spot - it's up to you.
However, in order to get the most benefit from your deck you should some thought to where you locate it. Things to consider include:
* Will the deck get the sun at the time of day when I want to be using it?
* Do I want to be shaded from the sun in high summer?
* Will adjacent trees or buildings block the sun from my deck?
* Will I be protected from prevailing winds?
* Can I see and hear my children playing on the deck?
Whether used for relaxing, entertaining, dining or as a play space for children decks are superbly versatile and aesthetic extensions to the home.

Q: How long will my timber deck last?
A: Timber decks are highly durable. That's because naturally durable timber species or pressure-treated softwoods are used in their construction. Modern preservative treatments mean that the timber, if maintained, should be structurally sound for around 25 years. However, to keep it looking good over such a time, it will need periodic cleaning and any finishes will need occasional refreshing.

Q: What sort of maintenance will my timber deck need?
A:A simple programme of routine care and maintenance will really enhance the long-term appearance and durability of your deck. All decks will benefit from regular brushing with a good stiff broom and around twice a year it would be a good idea to wash your deck down with a pressure spray. The aim of these exercises is to remove dirt, dead leaves and any slight surface growths. Doing this will also help to reduce slipperiness.
Unless they are stained, all timber decks will gradually fade to a pleasant grey colour and you may be surprised to hear that the preservative used to pressure pre-treat deck timbers and protect them actually slows this process down!

You may find it helpful to add a small amount of detergent to the water you use to clean your deck or use one of the specialist timber decking cleaners available.

As your deck timbers weather, small splits are likely to appear on the surface of the boards. These are a response to intermittent wetting and drying of the timber and will have no structural effect whatsoever. Regular application of surface coating and specialist deck finishes will reduce the uptake of moisture and consequent swelling and shrinkage. Any product should be used strictly in accordance with the manufacturers instructions. Clear water repellent coatings will need to be reapplied annually but stains should only need to attended to every few years.

Q: Can I personalise my timber deck?
A: Yes - timber decks can be customised to your own decorative or stylistic tastes. Stain your deck to practically any colour you like, whether one of a huge range of natural wood colours - or in a bright fashion shade. Similarly, the choice of additional design features - balustrades, pergolas, trellises, steps and so on - is almost infinite. The nice thing about timber decking is that it can be extended, or another level or feature added in the future to enhance your enjoyment.

Q. I have an idea for a design. How much will it cost?
A:Please call Grant on 0400 099 051 to arrange appointment and we will give a quote.
You can also email us.

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