Decks and outdoor
Deck builder in Christchurch
Decks, steps and pergolas for Christchurch, Selwyn and Waimakariri homes. Framing treated to H3.2, piles treated to H5, and fixings matched to how close you are to the sea.
What's included
Outdoor work we build
Timber decks
Pine, hardwood such as kwila or garapa, or composite boards, laid with drainage gaps and a picture-frame edge if you want one.
Steps and levels
Wide steps that double as seating, multi-level decks and landings that join the house to the lawn.
Pergolas and shade
Pergolas and covered areas over the deck, braced and tied down to handle the nor'wester.
Balustrades
Timber or glass balustrades and handrails where the Building Code calls for a barrier.
Process and timeline
How a deck job runs
Typical timeline
Most decks take one to three weeks on site, depending on size, levels, any pergola and the weather.
- 01
Measure and plan
We measure the site, check levels, access and drainage, and talk through boards and layout.
- 02
Quote and consent check
A written quote, plus a check on whether the deck needs building consent. Many low decks don't; higher ones usually do.
- 03
Piles and framing
Piles set in concrete, then bearers and joists, checked for level before a board goes down.
- 04
Boards and finish
Boards fixed, then steps, edging and any balustrade. Hardwood is oiled once it has weathered for a few weeks.
Local knowledge
Building decks in Canterbury
Treated timber
Joists and bearers are H3.2 treated pine, the grade for timber outside and off the ground. Piles in the ground are H5, the grade made for timber in soil.
The nor'wester
Gusts lift pergolas and screens. Posts and roof members get the bracing and hold-down hardware the wind zone calls for.
Frost and shade
Decks on the shady side of a house stay damp through winter. Board choice, gaps and airflow underneath help them dry and keep moss down.
Coastal sites
Near the sea at places like New Brighton, Sumner or Woodend Beach, salt air eats galvanised fixings. NZS 3604 calls for stainless steel in the sea spray zone.
Our work
Recent projects
Does my deck need building consent?
Many low decks are exempt from building consent under Schedule 1 of the Building Act, but they still have to meet the Building Code. Higher decks usually need consent. We check this when we quote, and your council can confirm.
What decking timber suits Canterbury?
H3.2 pine costs the least and takes stain well. Hardwoods such as kwila and garapa cost more, wear harder and weather to silver if left unoiled. Composite boards need the least upkeep. The quote can price more than one option.
How long does a deck take to build?
Most residential decks take one to three weeks on site. Large multi-level decks, pergolas and wet weather add time.
Can you build a pergola over the deck?
Yes. A pergola is best planned with the deck, so its posts land on solid footings and the frame is braced against the nor'wester.
Areas
Decks and outdoor across Canterbury
Council, ground and weather notes for each area we work in.
Other services
New builds
New homes and additions, from the frame and roof through to the finished fit-out.
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Renovations
Extensions, re-clads, interior refits and character upgrades for homes of any age.
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Bathrooms
Complete bathroom renovations: strip-out, waterproofing, tiling, showers, vanities and fit-out.
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Get a quote for your deck
Call us on 027 960 3400 or send the details online. Quotes are free and written.