Best Deck Material in NZ | Top Decking Timber, Oils & Screws
Discover the best deck material in NZ, including top decking timber, oils, screws, and tips on maintenance. Learn how to calculate decking materials and select the longest-lasting decking wood.
Top Decking Timber Options in New Zealand
When choosing decking wood, consider climate resistance, strength, and appearance. Here are some top recommendations:
1. Hardwood Decking
Examples: Kwila, Rimu, or Jarrah
Pros: Extremely durable, naturally resistant to rot and insects, premium finish.
Cons: Higher cost, heavier to install.
Best for: High-traffic decks and premium outdoor areas.
2. Treated Pine
Pros: Affordable, widely available, pressure-treated for rot and insect resistance.
Cons: Requires regular maintenance and staining.
Best for: DIY decks and budget-conscious projects.
Best Decking Oil and Maintenance Tips
Proper finishing protects your deck and enhances its lifespan.
Best Decking Oil
Use penetrating oils specifically designed for hardwood or softwood decks.
Regularly oiling prevents moisture damage and UV discoloration.
Recommended brands: Resene Decking Oil, Cabot’s Deck Oil NZ.
Pro Tip: Apply oil every 1–2 years depending on exposure to sun and rain.
Best Decking Screws for NZ Decks
Using quality screws ensures deck stability and prevents corrosion:
Stainless steel screws are ideal for coastal areas to resist rust.
Coated or galvanized screws are suitable for interior or low-moisture decks.
Avoid standard steel screws as they can corrode quickly.
How Much Are Decking Materials in NZ?
Decking material costs vary depending on wood type, quantity, and supplier:
Treated Pine: $25–$35 per linear meter — affordable and widely available.
Kwila / Hardwood: $50–$90 per linear meter — premium, highly durable.
Composite Decking: $60–$100 per linear meter — low maintenance and long-lasting.
Tip: Bulk purchases from local timber yards or hardware stores like Mitre 10, Bunnings, or PlaceMakers can help reduce costs and may offer seasonal discounts.
How to Calculate Decking Material
Measure Your Deck Area: Length × Width in meters.
Determine Board Size: Standard decking boards are often 90–140mm wide.
Calculate Number of Boards: Divide deck width by board width, add 5–10% for wastage.
Include Screws & Fasteners: Usually 4 screws per board per joist.
Example: A 5m × 4m deck with 90mm boards requires ~223 linear meters of timber.
Decking Material Options and Longevity
Hardwood Decking: Longest-lasting, 20+ years with proper care.
Treated Pine: Moderate lifespan, 10–15 years with maintenance.
Composite Decking: Durable, 15–25 years, minimal maintenance.
Factors That Affect Longevity:
Climate and exposure to moisture or sun.
Quality of installation (joists, fasteners, spacing).
Regular maintenance (cleaning, oiling, sealing).
Where to Buy Decking Materials in NZ
Local Timber Yards: Offer a wide range of hardwoods and treated pine. Staff can advise on project requirements.
Hardware Stores: Mitre 10, Bunnings, PlaceMakers—convenient for standard timber and DIY decks.
Online Suppliers: Specialty timbers, composite boards, and delivery options.
Maintaining Your Deck
Sweep and wash decks regularly to prevent mold and dirt build-up.
Reapply decking oil or sealant every 1–2 years.
Inspect boards and screws for damage or rot.
Trim surrounding vegetation to reduce moisture exposure.
Frequently Asked Questions About Decking Materials In New Zealand
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Hardwoods like Kwila or Rimu are the most durable, while treated pine is a budget-friendly option.
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Penetrating oils such as Resene Decking Oil or Cabot’s Deck Oil protect against UV and moisture.
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Use stainless steel or coated screws to prevent rust and maintain stability.
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Treated pine $25–$35/m, hardwood $50–$90/m, composite $60–$100/m, depending on quality and supplier.
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Measure deck area, divide by board width, and add 5–10% for waste. Include screws for every joist.
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Hardwood decking lasts the longest, followed by composite, then treated pine with regular maintenance.
