Timber Advice & Project Stories
Practical guidance and real project notes from more than a decade of building decks, pergolas and outdoor timber structures in KZN.
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Durban North Balau Deck Update: Boards Ready for Trimming and Picket Balustrade Next
Our Durban North balau deck is taking shape. Boards have been left long for a straight finishing cut, with balau vertical picket balustrade work scheduled to start today.
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Kirtlington Deck Update: Getting the Shape, Foundations and Airflow Right
Progress on our Kirtlington, Hillcrest pine deck: shaping the framework, preparing sound foundations and improving airflow beneath H3 CCA-treated timber, with guidance from SAWPA.
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Durban North Balau Deck Update: Solid Footings, Level Framework and Straight Joists
Progress on our 5 m × 3 m Durban North balau deck: solid concrete footings, a level and flat timber frame, and straight joists for neat screw lines.
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New Pine Deck and Pergola Build at Kirtlington, Hillcrest
Follow our new all-pine deck and pergola build at Kirtlington, Hillcrest, from the marked-out footprint and excavation for under-deck airflow to the intended concept.
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New Balau Timber Deck Build in Durban North – 5 m × 3 m
A new 15 m² balau deck in Durban North, with an H3 and H4 CCA-treated substructure, balustrading on three sides and a trap door for manhole access.
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Operation Upper Hailway: Monkey Roof Inspectors (Satire)
A fictional Upper Highway storm investigation: monkey roof inspectors, melting evidence and a very suspicious clipboard. Local humour from The Wood Joint.
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Polycarbonate IBR Roofing at Cotswold Downs, Hillcrest – Work in Progress
Work has started at Cotswold Downs Estate, Hillcrest: timber cleats on steel purlins for polycarbonate IBR roofing, with waterproofing and a concealed front gutter planned.
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Lakeside Balau Deck in Camperdown – Completed
Our completed lakeside balau deck in Camperdown, with timber balustrades, access steps and outdoor living space beside the house.
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Completed Timber Deck, Stairs & Under-Deck Storage – 35 Cotswold Drive
Completed timber deck, stairs and handrail at 35 Cotswold Drive, with repaired balustrading, a custom balau storage gate and the final oil finish. See the finished project photos and earlier construction updates.
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Why Correct Spacing Matters When Installing Timber Deck Boards
See how The Wood Joint uses consistent spacing when installing timber deck boards in Durban, and why the small details matter for alignment, drainage and natural timber movement.