Deck restoration pricing, no games

Pricing by deck size

These figures cover a standard full restoration — inspection, minor repairs, full sand-back, and 2–3 coats of premium oil or stain. Assumes decks in average-to-good structural condition.

Deck size	Typical range	Timeline
Small (10–20m²)	$1,200 – $1,800	2–3 days
Medium (25–35m²)	$1,800 – $2,500	3–4 days
Large (40–60m²)	$2,500 – $3,800	4–5 days
Extra large (60m²+)	$3,800 – $6,000+	5–7 days

Pricing by service (per m²)

If you only need one service — not a full restoration — here's what each stage costs on its own.

Service	Price range	Notes
Deck sanding only	$25 – $60/m²	Hardwood costs more than softwood
Staining or oiling only	$20 – $35/m²	Includes 2 coats; deck must be prepped
Full restoration (sand + finish)	$50 – $75/m²	Most common service
Maintenance recoat	$30 – $35/m²	Every 2–3 years, no full sand
Board replacement	$80 – $150/board	Supplied and fitted
Railing repairs	From $200	Quoted on inspection
Stair restoration	From $150/step	Includes sanding and finishing

What affects the final price

Every deck is different, but these are the main factors that push a quote up or down:

Deck condition

A deck that's been maintained is quicker and cheaper to restore than one that's been neglected for 8 years. Heavy weathering, deep grey staining, mildew growth, and structural rot all add prep time. The worse the condition, the closer to the top of the price range.

Timber species

Hardwoods like Ironbark, Spotted Gum, and Blackbutt take significantly longer to sand than Merbau or softwood. Expect 15–25% more for hardwood decks. Composite decks are cleaned and treated differently — no sanding, but specialised products.

Deck size and access

Larger decks get a better per-metre rate (economies of scale). But awkward access — multi-storey decks, sloping blocks, narrow side passages — adds time and can push pricing up 10–25%. Ground-level decks with easy vehicle access are the most efficient jobs.

Repairs needed

Minor repairs (up to five boards, nail punching, small railing fixes) are usually included in a standard restoration quote. Major structural work — replacing bearers, joists, corroded posts — is quoted separately and can add $500–$3,000+ depending on scope.

Product choice

Premium penetrating oils like Cutek CD50 cost more than standard stains but last significantly longer. We'll recommend based on your timber and exposure — the cheapest product isn't always the best value long-term.

Extras

Stairs, posts, fascia boards, and balustrades are usually quoted separately from the deck surface. If your deck has significant vertical elements, factor these in when comparing quotes.

When it's cheaper to recoat than restore

If your existing finish is fading but not peeling, and water still beads on the surface, you might only need a maintenance recoat — not a full restoration. This saves you 40–60% and takes half a day instead of five.

Signs you only need a recoat:

• Coating has dulled but hasn't peeled or flaked
• Water still beads on the surface (not soaking in)
• Colour is fading but timber underneath isn't grey
• No visible board damage or splintering
• Last full restoration was less than 5 years ago

We'll tell you honestly during the inspection. If a recoat is what you need, that's what we'll quote — not the full restoration.

Why quotes vary between companies

Two quotes for the same deck can vary by $1,000 or more. Here's what to check when comparing:

• Number of coats: Some quotes include one coat; premium finishes need 2–3 for proper protection. Ask.
• Product used: Cutek CD50, Intergrain, Cabots — these cost different amounts. A cheap quote might use hardware-store product that won't last.
• Repairs included: Some quotes exclude board replacement, nail punching, or railing checks. Read the scope.
• Dust extraction: Sanding without proper dust collection means fine dust all over your yard and pool. Not all contractors have proper equipment.
• Guarantee: We include a 12-month workmanship guarantee. Not everyone does.
• Insurance: Confirm the contractor is insured for both public liability and workers' comp. Ask for proof.

Payment and terms

• Written quote before work begins — no verbal quotes, no surprises
• Deposit only required for larger jobs (over $2,500)
• Balance due on completion, not before
• Payment by bank transfer, card, or cash
• Tax invoice provided

Save money on your deck restoration

A few honest tips that will save you real money:

• Book maintenance recoats every 2–3 years. A $600 recoat today prevents a $2,500 restoration in five years.
• Book in autumn or early winter. Peak demand runs September–November before Christmas. Autumn slots (March–June) often come with better pricing and quicker start dates.
• Combine decks. If you have front and back decks, doing both in one visit is cheaper per metre than two separate jobs.
• Group with neighbours. If a neighbour's deck also needs work, we often discount for adjacent jobs — same equipment, same trip.
• Don't wait for peeling. Once the finish starts peeling, prep time doubles. Recoat before it fails.

"Brutally honest quote — told us we only needed a recoat, not a full restoration. Saved us $1,200. That's the kind of honesty you don't forget." — David & Rachel L., Palm Beach