Are you dreaming of a warm, natural-looking outdoor space that blends perfectly with your garden or swimming pool? Timber decking and outdoor carpentry are ideal solutions for transforming patios, entertainment areas, and pool surrounds into stylish, functional retreats.
Whether you’re in Cape Town, Stellenbosch, or the Garden Route, this guide explores everything South African homeowners need to know about choosing timber for outdoor use — including costs, timber types, installation tips, and long-term care.
Why Choose Timber Decking in South Africa?
Timber decking offers a timeless, organic feel that enhances outdoor living. It’s not just about looks—quality timber is durable, flexible, and naturally slip-resistant when installed correctly. Here’s why it’s so popular among South African property owners:
- Natural Aesthetics: Timber adds warmth and character that blends with any landscape.
- Thermal Comfort: Wood stays cooler underfoot than concrete or paving.
- Custom Carpentry: Timber is perfect for bespoke outdoor furniture, pergolas, balustrades, and stairs.
- Eco-Friendly Appeal: Responsibly sourced wood is a renewable and sustainable material.
Types of Timber for Outdoor Decking in South Africa
Choosing the right timber is essential for durability, maintenance, and cost. Here are the most commonly used timbers for decking and outdoor carpentry in South Africa:
1. Balau
- Origin: Southeast Asia
- Colour: Rich reddish-brown
- Features: Extremely dense, naturally resistant to moisture and insects
- Best for: Pool surrounds, high-traffic areas
2. Garapa
- Origin: South America
- Colour: Golden to light brown
- Features: High resistance to weathering, less prone to warping
- Best for: Sun decks and patio extensions
3. Massaranduba
- Origin: Brazil
- Colour: Dark reddish-brown
- Features: Very durable, excellent lifespan
- Best for: Long-span decks and robust carpentry structures
4. Treated Pine
- Origin: Locally grown
- Colour: Light yellow-green to honey brown (can be stained)
- Features: Affordable, easy to work with, requires regular maintenance
- Best for: Budget decks, garden structures, and pergolas
Timber Decking Prices in South Africa (2025)
Here’s what you can expect to pay for professionally installed timber decking:
| Timber Type | Average Price (per m², incl. install) |
|---|---|
| Treated Pine | R950 – R1,500 |
| Balau | R1,200 – R1,900 |
| Garapa | R1,300 – R2,000 |
| Massaranduba | R1,400 – R2,200 |
Note: Final costs vary based on site conditions, subframe type, deck height, and design complexity.
Outdoor Carpentry Add-Ons That Boost Value
Professional outdoor carpentry can extend your deck into a complete entertainment or lifestyle space. Common timber features include:
- Pergolas & Shade Covers: Great for dining and lounging spaces.
- Stairs & Railings: Enhances safety and design appeal.
- Built-in Seating & Planters: Smart use of space for social settings.
- Timber Screens & Privacy Walls: Adds privacy and elegance.
These elements not only boost comfort but also increase your property’s resale value and appeal to buyers.
Benefits of Timber Decking vs Composite or Paving
| Feature | Timber Decking | Composite Decking | Paving |
|---|---|---|---|
| Appearance | Natural, rustic charm | Uniform, modern look | Stone or concrete finish |
| Temperature | Cooler underfoot | Moderate | Can get hot |
| Maintenance | Requires oiling/sealing | Low maintenance | Occasional cleaning |
| Installation | Quicker on uneven sites | Precision required | Requires flat surface |
| Lifespan | 10–20 years with care | 25+ years | 10–15 years |
Maintenance Tips for Timber Decking
To keep your timber deck looking fresh and structurally sound, follow these essential maintenance practices:
- Seal or oil annually using a UV-protectant deck oil.
- Sweep and wash regularly to prevent dirt build-up.
- Inspect for rot or damage, especially in shaded areas.
- Re-tighten fasteners to ensure structural integrity.
Where We Install Timber Decking in the Western Cape
At Pools Reno, we install high-quality timber decking and custom outdoor carpentry throughout:
- Cape Town (including Northern & Southern Suburbs)
- Stellenbosch, Somerset West, and Durbanville
- Paarl, Franschhoek, and Hermanus
- Garden Route and West Coast
- Overberg and Cederberg
Our services are tailored to the coastal climate and local council regulations.
Request a Free Site Inspection and Timber Decking Quote
Thinking of installing timber decking in Cape Town or the Western Cape? Contact Pools Reno for expert advice, premium materials, and professional carpentry craftsmanship. We offer full packages including:
- Decking design & build
- Outdoor pergolas & custom woodwork
- Swimming pool surrounds
- Deck lighting, stairs, and screens
Let’s help you build an outdoor area you’ll love for years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is timber decking a good choice for pool areas?
Yes. When sealed correctly, hardwood timber like Balau or Garapa is durable and naturally resistant to moisture.
How long does timber decking last?
With regular care, timber decks can last 10–20 years. Hardwoods tend to last longer than softwoods.
What’s the most affordable timber for decking?
Treated pine is the most budget-friendly, though it needs more upkeep than hardwoods.
Do I need building approval for a timber deck?
Only if the deck is raised above 1 metre. We handle all municipal compliance.
Can you install decking over existing paving?
Yes. This is a cost-effective option that improves aesthetics without demolition.
What’s better: timber or composite decking?
Timber offers a natural look and feel, while composite provides low maintenance and consistent finishes. The choice depends on your design and budget.
Related Services and Pages
- Composite Decking Installation Cape Town
- Swimming Pool Renovations Cape Town
- Pool Installation Services Cape Town
- Swimming Pool Services
- Contact Pools Reno
