Decking & Pergolas on the Central Coast
Outdoor spaces designed around how you live outside — not just what looks good in a photo. Timber, composite and pergola options with practical approval and budget advice.
Decking Price Bands
Simple Low Deck
Ground-level platform, standard hardwood, no stairs or balustrade.
Standard Deck
Hardwood or composite, stairs, balustrade, standard substructure.
Elevated / Complex
Raised deck, complex substructure, integrated pergola or roofing.
Based on Australian market signals. Hardwood install approx. $320–$500/m², composite from $350+/m².
Pergola Price Bands
Simple Pergola
Freestanding timber or steel frame, basic footings, no roofing.
Attached / Roofed
Attached to house, Colorbond or polycarbonate roofing included.
Integrated Outdoor Room
Full deck + pergola + screening as a single outdoor room design.
Timber or Composite?
Timber
- ✓ Natural warmth and character
- ✓ Lower upfront cost
- ✗ Requires oiling / maintenance
- ✗ More affected by coastal moisture
Composite
- ✓ Very low maintenance
- ✓ Suits coastal conditions well
- ✗ Higher upfront cost
- ✗ Less natural appearance
Decking & Pergola FAQs
Do I need council approval for a deck or pergola?
Some projects may qualify as exempt development under NSW Planning rules — meaning no approval is required — but only if they meet specific standards for size, height, setbacks and site constraints. We assess this for every project before work begins.
What affects the cost most?
Substructure complexity, slope, material selection (timber vs composite), stairs, balustrades, roofing and how the structure connects to the existing house are the main variables.
Should I choose timber or composite?
Timber suits clients who want warmth and a natural look — it's generally lower upfront but requires more maintenance. Composite has a higher upfront cost but lower long-term maintenance, which matters particularly for coastal Central Coast locations.
Can you build the pergola and deck together?
Yes — and it's usually better to design them as a single outcome. The integration, drainage and structural approach works better when planned together from the start.
How long will the project take?
A standard deck runs 1–3 weeks on site. Adding a pergola or roofed structure adds time. Material lead times and access conditions also affect the schedule.
Tell Us About Your Outdoor Space
Include photos of the area, approximate dimensions and how you want to use the space.
Book Measure & Quote Full Pricing Guide