From the street, it’s the verticals you notice first—clean, even, precise. Strong lines in rich merbau, standing tall like a timber picket brigade guarding the edge of this elevated deck. But this isn’t just about looks. Every element of this build was carefully chosen for strength, beauty, and durability—exactly what we believe in at Smartkits.
The Backbone: Steel Frame + Firmlok Muscle
Underneath the polished finish is a no-nonsense structure: a fully engineered steel frame using Firmlok box beams, colour-matched to suit the home. It’s clean, sharp, and built to carry serious loads without warping, twisting or rotting over time—especially in coastal or high-humidity zones.
Steel box beams offer a crisp underside and lightning-fast installation—ideal for DIYers or pro installers who don’t want to deal with timber framing fuss.
Decking with Warmth and Weight: 90x19mm Merbau
The decking boards are a showpiece in themselves—90 x 19mm merbau, screw-fixed to perfection. Every board was laid with the grain lined up like a runway. It’s the kind of finish that doesn’t just look good today—it’ll still be turning heads in ten years with proper oiling.
Merbau is a builder’s favourite for a reason:
• Naturally resistant to rot, decay and termites
• Deep colour with beautiful grain variation
• Takes oil like a dream
• Doesn’t cup or split easily like cheaper alternatives
This isn’t just a deck—it’s a stage.
Balustrade Brilliance: Kwila + Merbau, the Dream Combo
Let’s talk about the hero of this build: the balustrade.
Forget flimsy pool fencing or off-the-shelf panels. This is custom carpentry done the Smartkits way.
• 90x90 laminated Kwila posts provide the backbone—solid, clean, and stunning.
• Topped with a 90x45mm hardwood rail, the perfect grip height and visual cap.
• The verticals are 42x19mm merbau, spaced just right for compliance, safety, and aesthetics.
From a distance, it looks sculptural—modern privacy with traditional warmth. Up close, you notice the grain, the craftsmanship, and the way the verticals catch the light throughout the day. It’s a balustrade that doesn’t just protect—it defines the entire space.
Why It Works
This build is a Smartkits textbook case of how great materials + smart design = a next-level result:
• Engineered steel base = no movement, no sagging
• Merbau decking = rich, stable, long-lasting
• Custom timber balustrade = compliant, beautiful, and timeless
It’s easy to assemble if you follow the guide. But it’s hard to look away once it’s done.
Thinking of Building Your Own?
Whether you’re a tradie or a first-timer, we can supply everything you need to build something like this. From pre-cut steel to deck screws to engineered balustrade kits—Smartkits gives you the tools, the plan, and the backup.
And if you’re not sure where to start? Just send us your measurements and we’ll do the rest.
Build it once. Build it Smart.
Only at smartkits.com.au
Scott Challen
CEO, The QHI Group
SmartKits Australia | QHI National Builders | EzyBlox Sheds & Steel Buildings
Email: scott@qhi.net.au
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/
Website: https://www.qhigroup.
Want to join our team? : Interview - Scott Challen
"Build Smarter, Not Harder"
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