Can I get a free quote?
Yes. Your initial appointment with one of our Design Consultants is free. This will allow you to discuss and ascertain whether you need just a patio and/or deck, or a full concept design. The comprehensive design and quote of your new structure is free, however the cost of a full concept design, if required, will be quoted to you. Find out more here.

How does a job progress?
Click here to find out.

What if I want steel?
We use timber as much as possible, but if steel is necessary we can use it. We choose not to use rolled Colorbond steel for the framework, especially where the job is close to the coast. If a steel structure is required we will use hot-dipped galvanized steel. This is more expensive than rolled Colorbond steel, but will last a lifetime.

Do I need Council approval?
Yes, for everything. It is better to assume you do than assume you don't, and end up in conflict with the Council or your neighbours. As the various Councils are not consistent with what is required for approval, it is better to check first to be safe.

What if I want to build a patio or deck myself?
One of our suppliers, RAW Building Supplies, can provide you with a DIY kit and all the help you need for your project.

Patio - a structure of post, beams and rafters with roof sheeting, with or without a ceiling underneath.

Pergola - an open structure of posts, beams and rafters, with no roof sheeting or ceiling; provides height and form, partial shade and no shelter from rain.

Alfresco - simply means outdoor.

Posts - the vertical or upright parts of the patio.

Beams - the largest pieces of timber that run around the perimeter of the patio.

Laminated or gluelam timber - several smaller pieces of solid timber are glued and clamped together to create a much thicker, stronger piece of timber in order to span greater distances.

Rafters - the medium-sized timbers running from the ridge to the beam.

Collar-tie - horizontal timbers joining rafters on opposite sides of a gabled roof.

Ridge - the large timber at the highest point of the structure.

Battens - smaller timbers running across the rafters, which roof sheeting or tiles are attached to.

Gable - a pitched section of roof forming an A-frame, with a vertical triangle section resulting at either end.

Hip-end - a roof style similar to a pyramid, where all sides are sloping and meet at the ridge.

Dutch gable - a combination of hip-end and gable, where a smaller triangular vertical section is formed at the top, with a sloped section underneath it.

Gazebo - a freestanding patio, separate from a house or other structure, usually positioned to make the most of a view or garden, or to cover a spa.

See the patio design options page for some illustrations.

Will timber attract termites?
At present, the most commonly used timber to resist termites is CCA Pine (treated Pine). Unlike Australia, many countries have banned the use of CCA Pine because it is toxic. Councils and government organisations have at least begun banning the use of it wherever it comes into contact with humans. The owners of Kerdels have been looking for alternatives for five years, and believe they have come across not only a health-friendly alternative, but one that has a positive impact on the environment. Yellow Cedar is naturally termite resistant because of the oils contained in the timber, and we recommend this for all areas, exterior or interior.

Is timber durable?
Yes. Yellow Cedar is rated 'Durability Class 1' according to Australian Standard 1684.2. This means the probable life expectancy is greater than 40 years. In the salty air along the coast of WA, Yellow Cedar has to be the ultimate choice.

Will the timber warp or shrink?
Modern timber production includes kiln-drying, so paint and sealer adhere well and there is very little movement or shrinkage. Movement and shrinkage were common problems with older timber structures, but this occurred because the timber was not kiln-dried.