Project
Deck Build Matakana
Matakana deck build
Over the years we have revamped many outdoor areas with quality decks, railings, retaining walls and stairs adding flow, value and more appeal to Auckland homes. Check out this deck build in Matakana in 2021 we loved taking the lead on.
A multi-level deck build
This was a somewhat challenging multi-level deck build consisting of four different decks that ran between two separate buildings.
A multi-level deck expands outdoor living spaces and adds separate rooms for dining, entertaining, shelter, sun and shade. It can also accentuate gardens and create a bridge to the garden and lawn. Multi-level decks can follow a slope by tiering up or down as the ground level does.
Decking design
When planning a decking project, there is a lot to think about. We were delighted that on this deck build, the client let us provide a lot of the design details.
What we love
We provided a complete start-to-finish building service and there was plenty of scope for creativity and originality. The collaborative approach to the design and detailing worked out really well. This deck build in Matakana was another great opportunity to show our creativity and craftsmanship in one, which we loved. A win-win building project.
Decking material
For this build, the client chose to use vitex, a Solomon Islands tropical hardwood that has been used extensively as exterior decking in New Zealand for about 30 years.
It is an attractive light-coloured timber that will quickly age to a driftwood grey if left to weather. A hard, dense, and heavy wood, it resists rot and insects.
We used 135mm x 135mm laminated posts. Structurally engineered from NZ sustainable pine, they are H5 treated for exterior use.
The client opted for aluminium and glass handrails.
Standout features
There are a number of stand-out features in this deck build for us. There are four different decks running between two buildings: the main house and the guest house. Due to the lay of the land, the deck at the front of the house is one storey high, wrapping round to ground level at the back of the house which looks fabulous.
We are very pleased with the way the multi-levels work between the main house and the guest house and we’re delighted with the way the middle deck runs into and cuts around the natural rock formation.
We spent a lot of time and attention ensuring the decking across all four decks lined up and we’re stoked we did. The seamless look is very stylish.
The deck and house get plenty of sun yet there is also a sheltered area for comfortable barbequing and outdoor dining. This home gives a sense of space, which is enhanced by the fabulous new decks. It is a house with great indoor-outdoor flow built with easy entertaining in mind.
Building challenges
Lining up all the boards between and around buildings that weren’t square to each other did present us with a few head-scratching moments, as did the fact that from one end to the other, the house was running 70mm out of level. We also built this between all the covid lockdowns and timber supply issues which had its frustrations, and at times we were somewhat stymied by the fact that this home in Matakana was far from our base, and we had little to no cellphone coverage.
A well-built deck adds both entertainment area and appeal, and when it comes to decks and covered areas, knowing where to build, what to build and what you’re allowed to build is essential.
We’re Auckland deck builders who have been around for a while, so we have loads of experience creating decks, stairs and fences, and we’ve had loads of experience with decking materials, fixing systems, heights and rails. We know how to build the best system to meet your lifestyle and house design.
DBS is a proud sponsor of Motohub
The DBS Residential crew did an “outstanding job” in building the studio
– The Mike & Cole Show
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