Decks & Steps

We specialize in building beautiful, long-lasting decks with Kwila and Garapa, two premium timbers known for their durability and timeless appeal. While other materials are available, these tried-and-tested hardwoods remain our top recommendation. They not only look stunning when first built but also maintain their beauty for many years.

The natural grain patterns and warm tones of timber create a welcoming and elegant outdoor space. You can choose a straightforward decking layout or enhance the look with a picture frame finish, where a narrower band of decking borders the main surface. This option requires a little extra framing but adds depth, character, and a refined touch to your deck.

With hundreds of decks built, we bring expertise and attention to detail to every project. Steps are a key feature of safety and comfort, and we ensure they are consistent, with an ideal height of around 160mm (and never more than 180mm). Uneven steps are a common cause of trips and falls, but with our craftsmanship, your steps will always be precise—designed for confidence and ease of use.

We would be delighted to build your next deck and create an outdoor space you will enjoy for years to come.

TYPES OF TIMBER USED

Pine

Pine is one of the most popular choices for timber decking in New Zealand. It is readily available, relatively inexpensive, and easy to work with. Pine decking is often treated to resist rot and insect damage, ensuring longevity and durability.

At Everyday Contractors we avoid using pine for decking as much as possible. This is a fast growing wood that swells in the wet and shrinks in the summer sun. This means it is constantly moving and will want to pull all our tight joints apart. We can work around this to some extent but really the best option is to use a semi hard wood that does not have the same issues.

Kwila

Kwila, an imported hardwood, is another favoured option. Known for its rich reddish-brown colour and dense grain, Kwila is highly resistant to decay and termites. Its durability makes it ideal for coastal areas where conditions can be harsh. Kwila planks are normally 140mm wide. We like to use 90mm wide planks for the outside edge when picture framing the deck.

We have built hundreds of Kwila decks and really like using this wood. It has a rich colour and makes every job look special.

Garapa

Garapa is another imported hardwood that is gaining popularity. It has a golden colour and fine grain, offering a stunning visual appeal. Garapa is also very durable, making it a great choice for decking that will last for years.

This is probably our preferred option for many jobs as the yellow timber does not leach colour and is quite uniform in colour. It makes for a very stable product to work with.

Other Hardwoods

Other hardwoods like Teak, Jarrah, and Balau are also used in timber decking. Each type brings unique characteristics, colours, and grain patterns, allowing homeowners to tailor their decking to their personal aesthetic preferences. The issue with using other hard woods is that they are not readily available and costs are greater.

BENEFITS OF TIMBER DECKING

Natural Beauty

The natural beauty of timber decking is one of its most significant advantages. The unique grain patterns and colours of the wood add character and charm to any outdoor space.

Warm & Inviting

Timber decking creates a warm and inviting ambience, making outdoor areas feel cozy and comfortable. It is perfect for entertaining guests or enjoying a quiet evening outdoors.

Versatility

Timber decking is versatile and can be used for various applications, including patios, balconies, and pool surrounds. It can be stained or painted to match the existing decor, offering flexibility in design.