Deck Builders on the Sunshine Coast
What Makes a Deck Last
At BCM Builders, we're deck builders on the Sunshine Coast, building timber and composite decks for houses, units and outdoor entertaining areas. Most of the decisions that matter happen before the first board is laid: how the frame is set out, how far apart the joists sit, how water gets away from the structure and how the deck meets the existing floor level of the house. Get those right and the surface stays flat and quiet underfoot for years.
We build both low-level and raised decks, including the stairs, balustrading and screening that raised decks need. Call 0425 815 304 or send through the form for a free quote.
Four Parts of a Deck Build
The build breaks down into four areas we'll cover when we quote.
Frame and footings. Post spacing, bearer size and footing depth follow the deck's height and span, not habit. This is the part you can't change later without pulling the deck up.
Decking material. Hardwood can be sanded back and restained whenever it needs it, while composite holds its colour with almost no upkeep. Both sit over the same frame, so the choice is about maintenance rather than structure.
Levels and access. A deck flush with the internal floor makes indoor and outdoor space read as one, which means setting the frame lower than people expect. Where that isn't possible, one well-placed step beats a series of small ones.
Balustrading and screening. Raised decks need a balustrade, with post positions built into the frame from the start. Screening can go on the same posts for privacy.
Choosing Between Timber & Composite
Timber and composite are the two realistic options for most decks, and neither is better outright. Hardwood costs less up front, feels cooler underfoot in shade and can be brought back to new with a sand and a fresh coat. It does need that coat, and how often depends on how exposed the deck is. Composite costs more to buy and install, then asks almost nothing of you afterwards beyond a wash. It can't be sanded back if it gets scratched, and darker boards run hotter in full sun.
If you know you'll maintain a timber deck, timber usually wins on look. If you know you won't, composite is the safer choice.
Common Questions
Yes, provided the frame is set low enough and there's still clearance for drainage and airflow underneath. It's a decision that has to be made before the substructure goes in, because raising or lowering a completed frame isn't practical.
Low-level decks sit close to the ground and usually avoid the need for stairs or balustrading, but they need careful attention to ventilation and drainage. Raised decks open up the space underneath and give better views, and they bring balustrading, stairs and heavier framing into the build.
Darker composite boards absorb more heat than lighter ones and can get warm in direct sun, much like any dark surface. Choosing a lighter colour or positioning the deck to catch afternoon shade both make a noticeable difference.
Contact BCM Builders
- Phone
- 0425 815 304
- Based in
- Buderim QLD 4556
- Service area
- Buderim, Maroochydore, Nambour & the wider Sunshine Coast, travelling up to 100km
- Trading hours
- Monday–Friday: 7:00am – 4:00pm
- Saturday – Sunday: Closed