Decking
Decking Cost on the Sunshine Coast: 2026 Price Guide ($/m²)
18 May 2026 · 8 min read
The most common first question we get on a site visit is the simplest one: 'roughly, what's this going to cost?' Deck pricing on the Sunshine Coast varies more than most people expect — substructure, timber species, height off the ground and balustrade requirements can each move the number by thousands. This guide walks through real 2026 ranges, what drives the price up or down, and how to read a deck quote so you actually know what you're paying for.
2026 Deck Cost Ranges on the Sunshine Coast
These are the all-in ranges we see for quality decks built across Caloundra to Noosa in 2026 — including substructure, fixings, balustrade (where required) and a proper finish.
| Deck type | Per m² | Typical 30m² build |
|---|---|---|
| Treated pine deck | $350 – $500 | $10,500 – $15,000 |
| Merbau hardwood deck | $500 – $700 | $15,000 – $21,000 |
| Spotted gum / blackbutt hardwood | $600 – $850 | $18,000 – $25,500 |
| Capped composite deck | $650 – $900 | $19,500 – $27,000 |
| Elevated deck (>1m, with balustrade) | +$150 – $300/m² | Add $4,500 – $9,000 |
What Actually Drives the Price
Two decks the same size can quote $10,000 apart for legitimate reasons. The biggest variables we see are height, access, substructure type and finish-level — not the timber itself.
- Height off the ground — anything over 1m needs balustrade and often engineered footings
- Site access — a wheelbarrow-only backyard adds days of labour
- Substructure — concrete piers vs screw piles vs existing slab
- Roof or pergola integration — adds posts, beams and waterproofing detailing
- Council approval, engineering and certification on attached or elevated builds
Hardwood vs Composite: Cost Over 25 Years
Hardwood looks cheaper on day one. Composite usually looks cheaper across the lifetime of the deck once you factor in oiling, sanding and board replacements.
Pros
- Hardwood has the lowest install cost and the strongest resale appeal
- Composite has the lowest lifetime maintenance and never needs oiling
- Both comfortably outlast treated pine in Queensland conditions
Cons
- Hardwood needs oiling every 12–18 months in coastal QLD
- Composite damage usually means full-board replacement, not repair
- Cheap uncapped composite fades visibly within two summers
What a Good Deck Quote Should Include
A serious deck quote should be a one-page-plus document — not a number scribbled on a business card. If the quote you're holding is missing any of the following, ask for it in writing before signing.
- Total m² and finished height above ground
- Named timber species, grade and supplier
- Substructure detail — pier type, spacing and fixings
- Balustrade spec (where applicable) and compliance to AS1170
- Stain or oil product and number of coats
- QBCC licence number, public liability insurance and workmanship warranty
- Payment schedule tied to milestones, not weekly invoicing
"If the quote doesn't name the timber species and the fixings, you're not comparing decks — you're comparing guesses."
How to Save Money Without Cutting Corners
There are smart savings, and there are false economies. We'd rather a client downsize the footprint by 5m² and keep the spec premium than stretch the build with cheap timber that fails in five years.
Smart savings
Slightly smaller footprint, ground-level instead of elevated, hardwood instead of composite, simpler balustrade design.
False economies
Treated pine substructure under a hardwood top, uncapped composite, undersized joists, single-coat finish to 'save on oil'.
FAQ
Frequently asked questions.
How long does it take to build a 30m² deck?
Most quality 30m² hardwood decks take 2–3 weeks on site, plus a 2–4 week lead time on timber depending on species and availability.
Do I need council approval for a deck on the Sunshine Coast?
Decks under 1m off the ground and not attached to the house generally don't need approval. Anything elevated, attached to the dwelling, or with a roof usually does — we manage approvals as part of the build.
Is composite decking worth the extra cost?
For pool surrounds, modern architecture, and clients who want zero maintenance — yes. For character homes and clients who appreciate the patina of real timber, hardwood still wins on character and resale.
How much does it cost to replace an old deck?
Replacement typically runs 10–20% less per m² than a new build because the footings and access are already established. We always quote a teardown and re-build as one combined number.
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