• Contact Us
Login

Select a store

Cart

Your cart is empty

How to Build a Deck — Complete Checklist for Australian Homeowners

Building a deck is one of the highest-ROI outdoor living projects you can undertake — but it requires careful planning, the right materials, and in most cases, council approval. This checklist walks you through every stage of a composite deck build, from initial planning through to final installation.

Whether you're a homeowner managing a DIY build or a tradie pricing a job, use this checklist to make sure nothing gets missed.

✅ Stage 1 — Planning & Design

  • Decide on deck location, size, and shape
  • Measure the area accurately (length x width in metres)
  • Determine deck height — ground level, raised, or multi-level
  • Consider sun orientation — north-facing decks get more sun; east/west for morning or afternoon shade
  • Plan for drainage — ensure water can flow away from the house
  • Identify underground services (gas, water, electrical) before any digging
  • Check BAL (Bushfire Attack Level) rating if in a bushfire-prone area — affects material selection
  • Choose your decking board colour and profile from the THQ range

✅ Stage 2 — Council Permits & Compliance

  • Check your local council's exempt development rules — many decks under 1m high and under a certain m² are exempt
  • Apply for a building permit if required (most states require permits for decks over 1m high or over 10m²)
  • Engage a licensed builder or certifier if required by your state
  • Confirm setback requirements from property boundaries
  • Check heritage overlay or body corporate restrictions if applicable
  • Confirm pool barrier compliance if deck is adjacent to a pool

✅ Stage 3 — Materials & Quantities

  • Calculate total deck area in m²
  • Calculate number of decking boards required (allow 10% wastage for cuts)
  • Select board profile — grooved (hidden clip system) or solid
  • Select colour from THQ range: Teak, Ancient Wood, Merbau, Charcoal, Silver Grey, Sky Grey, Oak, Brown, Dark Grey, or 3D range
  • Order matching fascia boards and bull noses for perimeter finish
  • Calculate subframe materials — H3 treated pine joists and bearers (THQ stocks H3 treated pine)
  • Order deck clips (2mm, 4mm, or 6mm spacing depending on board expansion requirements)
  • Order starter clips and picture frame clips if required
  • Order stainless steel screws for subframe and face-fix applications
  • Order weedmat if deck is ground level
  • Confirm pickup from THQ Melbourne or Brisbane warehouse, or arrange delivery

✅ Stage 4 — Site Preparation

  • Mark out deck footprint with string lines
  • Excavate and level ground if required
  • Install concrete footings or stirrups for posts (check footing depth requirements for your soil type)
  • Lay weedmat under ground-level decks
  • Ensure adequate clearance under deck for airflow (minimum 50mm recommended for composite boards)

✅ Stage 5 — Subframe Construction

  • Install posts and bearers to level
  • Install joists at correct spacing — typically 400mm centres for composite decking (check product spec)
  • Ensure joists are level across the entire frame — use a long level or laser level
  • Install blocking between joists at board ends and joins
  • Treat all cut ends of H3 pine with end-grain preservative
  • Install perimeter fascia framing if using a fascia board finish

✅ Stage 6 — Decking Board Installation

  • Install starter clips on the first board run
  • Lay first board square to the frame — this sets the alignment for all subsequent boards
  • Install deck clips between each board at every joist crossing
  • Maintain consistent board spacing (2mm, 4mm, or 6mm per clip type)
  • Pre-drill and face-fix picture frame boards with stainless steel screws
  • Cut boards to length — use a fine-tooth saw blade for clean cuts on composite
  • Install fascia boards to perimeter using Liquid Nails adhesive and/or screws
  • Install bull nose boards on exposed edges for a finished look
  • Check for any high or low boards and adjust clips as needed

✅ Stage 7 — Final Checks & Handover

  • Inspect all board ends — ensure no sharp edges or splinters (composite boards should be clean-cut)
  • Check all clips are fully seated and boards are secure
  • Clean deck surface — remove sawdust, offcuts, and construction debris
  • Wash down with water — no sealant or oil required for composite decking
  • Arrange building inspection if permit was required
  • Photograph completed deck for warranty records
  • Register product warranty if applicable

Composite Decking Maintenance Checklist (Annual)

  • Wash deck with mild detergent and water — no harsh chemicals
  • Check clips and fasteners — re-seat any that have shifted
  • Clear debris from board gaps to maintain drainage
  • Inspect fascia and bull nose boards for any movement
  • Check subframe for any signs of moisture damage or movement

Get Your Materials from THQ

THQ stocks everything you need for a composite deck build — boards, fascia, bull noses, clips, screws, H3 treated pine subframe timber, weedmat, and adhesive. One supplier, one pickup or delivery.

  • 📞 Call 1800 084 700 — get a full materials list and quote for your deck size
  • 🏭 Pickup — Melbourne (multiple VIC locations) and Brisbane warehouse
  • 🚚 Delivery — nationwide; same-week options for VIC and SEQ
  • 💬 Online enquiry — send us your deck dimensions and we'll prepare a full quote

Page authored by Hiren | THQ Product & Content Team