Most people would agree that a timber deck is a thing of beauty. No matter what timber is chosen, a deck is as stunning as it is practical, providing the perfect base to enjoy relaxation and entertainment around your Adelaide home.
Before you start planning for a new timber deck for your Adelaide home, however, it’s important to understand any restrictions that may apply to your home. In Adelaide, we’re not just talking about council or heritage restrictions, but restrictions that may apply if you live in a bushfire prone area.
Can I build a timber deck in Adelaide in a bushfire prone area?
South Australia has been mapped into bushfire protection areas, depending on their level of risk. These levels include general, medium and high, as well as regional, outback and urban interface. These levels are important if you’re considering building a timber deck, because there are parts of Adelaide that fall within a bushfire protection area.
If you live in one of these areas you can still usually have a timber deck. There just might be extra rules that you need to follow. For example:
- If there’s space below your deck, enclosing it as a defence against ember attacks.
- Choosing timber that is resistant to fires. Luckily, we are spoiled for choice here in Adelaide and Australia. Examples include merbau, one of the most popular decking timbers on the market, blackbutt, ironbark and spotted gum.
- Like the decking boards, if you have a balustrade or railing, choose non-combustible materials or fire resistant timber.
- For higher risk areas, you may need to use non-combustible materials for the supporting structure. Steel is the most common choice.
- You may also need to ensure there are no gaps or reduced gaps in between the timber decking, depending on the risk level in your area.
Restrictions are for your safety
These rules can be confusing, particularly if you’re not sure of the risk area where you live. They can also be restrictive and add extra cost to the project. However, it’s wise to point out that the rules are in place for you and your family’s safety.
If you didn’t follow the rules and built a timber deck that wasn’t appropriate for your level of risk, you are potentially placing your family in danger.
Who can help you build a timber deck in a fire prone area of Adelaide?
As we mentioned, building a timber deck in a fire prone area can be confusing. Thankfully, there is a builder you can call on who understands the restrictions and can still build you a beautiful timber deck that won’t cost the earth.
That builder is Outside Concepts.
Our branches are all owned and operated by local people who understand the restrictions in their areas. This includes council and heritage restrictions, as well as restrictions for areas that fall within a bushfire protection area.
In the southern suburbs of Adelaide, the owner and manager is Craig Arthur. Craig and his team from Outside Concepts Southern Branch can build you a beautiful and practical deck while ensuring the safety of your family in event of a bushfire.
To organise a no-obligation discussion, quote and design, call Outside Concepts on 1800 601 674 or submit a form on the Southern Branch page.
From concept to clean up, you can rely on us. Give Outside Concepts a call on 1800 601 674 to organise a free quote.
Can you build a timber deck in Adelaide in a bushfire prone area?