A treated pine deck lasts 15 to 20 years with regular maintenance (resealing every 2 to 3 years). Hardwood decks - Balau, Garapa, and Massaranduba - last 25 to 30 years with periodic oiling. Cape Town’s coastal climate demands quality timber and proper treatment to maximise lifespan. The substructure quality and installation workmanship are equally [...]

The best wood depends on your budget and priorities. For affordability, treated pine offers excellent value at R1,700 to R2,200 per m² installed. For durability and low maintenance, Balau and Garapa are the top choices in Cape Town - both resist moisture, insects, and weathering exceptionally well. Garapa offers a golden tone while Balau provides [...]

Not necessarily. Entry-level composite decking starts around R1,800 per m² - similar to treated pine. Premium composite ranges up to R4,500 per m². The advantage of composite is near-zero maintenance, which can make it cheaper over 15 to 20 years. However, timber offers natural warmth, can be refinished, and often costs less upfront. Compare both [...]

Timber decking prices in Cape Town range from R1,700 to R3,500 per m² fully installed in 2026. Treated pine sits at the lower end (R1,700 – R2,200 per m²), while premium hardwoods like Balau and Garapa range from R2,800 to R3,500 per m². These prices include materials, substructure, and labour. Extras like balustrades, stairs, and [...]