When summer rolls in, your backyard is begging for a refresh. With a little planning and the right timber supplies, you can turn your outdoor space into a stylish, inviting, and functional oasis. Timber projects like decks, pergolas, feature walls, or raised garden beds offer beauty, relaxation, and added value to your home.
Let’s dive into some inspiring ideas for your summer backyard renovation.
Why Renovate Your Backyard This Summer
Make the Most of Outdoor Living
There's nothing like enjoying a BBQ lunch under the sun or gathering around a fire pit with family and friends on a warm evening. By upgrading your backyard now, you’ll make the most of outdoor living all summer long and beyond.
Add Value to Your Home with Timber Projects
Outdoor timber features blend natural beauty with practical value. A well-built deck or crafted pergola enhances curb appeal, making your home more appealing to buyers and offering better resale potential.
Top Summer Backyard Renovation Ideas Using Timber
Here are some popular timber outdoor projects that are perfect for upgrading your backyard this summer.
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Build a Stylish Timber Deck
A deck creates a comfortable entertaining platform, seamlessly extending your living space. Opt for durable and beautiful choices such as Merbau. These Merbau Decking Boards are ideal for decks, screening, and external fixtures.
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Create Shade with a Pergola
A pergola brings shade and structure to your backyard space. It’s perfect for filtering light while allowing airflow, and great for supporting climbing plants or adding mood lighting.
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Upgrade Garden Beds with Timber Sleepers
Timber sleepers provide a clean, raised edge to garden beds and make planting more accessible. They offer style and function, especially when using treated pine or hardwood. Check out our Hardwood Sleepers, perfect for building that raised bed.
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Design a Timber Feature Wall or Privacy Screen
Feature walls or screens offer added privacy and a focal point. Slatted designs look particularly on-trend and give your backyard a modern edge.
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Add Timber Furniture and Outdoor Accessories
Create a relaxed vibe with handmade benches, planter boxes, or custom shelves using leftover timber. These simple touches help weave style and comfort into your outdoor space.
Choosing the Right Outdoor Supplies
Timber Types for Outdoor Use
Outdoor conditions can be rough on materials, so it's best to use durable options:
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Merbau and Spotted Gum — naturally weather-resistant hardwoods with rich colour and durability.
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Treated Pine — effective and budget-friendly for structural framing or sleepers.
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Tasmanian Oak — great for feature details, offering a lighter aesthetic that's easy to finish.
Explore our broader timber range, including hardwoods and treated pine, to find the perfect one for your next project.
Essential Hardware and Finishes
To protect your timber from moisture and wear, use the correct hardware and finishes - think stainless steel screws, galvanised brackets, and high-quality oil or sealants suitable for outdoor use. Our hardware collection has everything you need to finish your project with strength and style.
With summer approaching fast, now’s the perfect time to refresh your backyard with timber and outdoor supplies. Whether it's decking, landscaping, or creating a shaded escape, Canterbury Timber offers everything you need, from expert guidance to fast delivery, so your outdoor space is ready when the weather warms up.
Summer Backyard Renovation FAQs
What type of timber is best for outdoor decks?
Hardwoods like Merbau or Spotted Gum are highly durable and resistant to decay. Treated Pine is still a reliable and cost-effective alternative if shielded with sealant and maintained properly.
Do I need to treat timber before using it outdoors?
Definitely - sealing your timber protects it from UV exposure, moisture and insect damage. Even hardwoods benefit from an annual oil or stain to preserve finish and longevity.
How long does a timber pergola last?
With correct timber choice and regular care, a timber pergola can last well over 15 years. Annual sealing and occasional inspections help keep it standing strong season after season.
Are timber sleepers good for garden beds?
Absolutely. They help retain soil, raise bed height for easier planting, and provide a robust, natural frame. Treated sleepers offer excellent durability in contact with soil.
Where can I buy timber and outdoor supplies near me?
If you’re in Sydney, Canterbury Timber is your trusted source. We stock everything from decking boards to sleepers and hardware, all backed by expert advice and fast delivery. Browse our decking boards collection to get started.