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The average cost of decking services varies based on factors like material and project size. Softwood decking (e.g., pine) ranges from $30 to $60 per square meter, with additional installation costs. Hardwood decking (e.g., oak or teak) is pricier, ranging from $70 to $120 per square meter, plus installation. Composite decking costs between $80 and $150 per square meter for materials, plus installation. Labor costs generally range from $25 to $50 per square meter. Additional expenses may include features like railing, stairs, and lighting. Obtain quotes from local professionals for precise pricing tailored to your project.

First, cover the ground with weed control fabric. Then, add 40 to 50 mm of gravel on top. This prevents your deck from absorbing moisture. One other option is to place concrete pads on the ground, then have the deck sit on top of them. If you don't have the time or ability to do this yourself, feel free to include it in your task post and have a decking builder do it for you.

It is not advisable to caulk a deck because 1) the caulk won't stain to match the rest of your deck, and 2) caulk is not stable. Eventually, the caulk will break out and worsen the situation. Instead, it's best to sand around any cracks or voids, turn the boards over, or replace them entirely. When in doubt, consult a deck specialist or find a handyperson near you. 

In general, deck builders recommend using screws - particularly deck screws - when joining decking boards. Screws are better at holding things together - they don't rust as easily and don't pop up eventually. Nails that rise or pop up are dangerous, so it's best to avoid using them. If you'd like to DIY your decking project, we suggest consulting with a decking contractor near you beforehand. They'll help you pick the best building materials or even build the deck for you and your family!

Injecting waterproof resin glue and using clamps can help fix up cracks in your deck. Deck builders may also recommend applying a sealer once a year to protect all the surfaces of your deck better. And while most builders don't advise using caulk to fill in gaps on your decking board, some may be fine with applying coloured caulk. To better weigh the options when it comes to repairing a cracked deck, consult a decking specialist near you.

It's not advisable to lay decking straight onto the soil as the wooden boards will absorb moisture. This can seriously damage your decking and ruin the vision you have for your home. Decking specialists recommend placing either concrete slabs or weed control fabric plus gravel on the area you want to build your deck. Only then can the contractor start laying down the decking boards.

Yes, decking boards should have gaps that are ⅛ to ¼ inch wide. These gaps allow for the natural expansion and contraction of the wood. Without the proper spacing between boards, your deck may get damaged. You can get more tips on building a deck in this guide. If you'd like to make sure that your deck will have an adequate gap width, consider hiring a top-rated decking specialist near you. Tap the "Post a task" button to get started on your decking project.

High-quality decking boards come in different varieties: timber, composite, aluminium, and pressure-treated wood. For long-term performance and durability against weather conditions, composite decking is your best bet. If you want a more natural feel for your outdoors, timber decking is a great choice. Wood decking made of pressure-treated wood is also popular for being low maintenance and durable. Talk to your Tasker to determine which decking products are best as building materials for your decking needs.