Steep Site Deck Builders in Wellington
The Wedge Deck: A Steep Site Deck in Paremata, Wellington
The Wedge Deck sits on the side of a steep cliff, 17 metres above sea level. It is also on top of a historical slip site. The owners had a backyard they could not use. There was nothing to stop a fall from the cliff edge.
They knew the job would be a challenge. Build two had the confidence to take it on.
The challenge
The biggest risk was the drop itself. Our team put safety measures and site safety plans in place before work began. Access was tight. Everything came through a narrow garden path to the backyard. That meant careful planning and a lot of manual labour.
We used engineered screwed piles. They cause less disturbance to the slip site than other foundation options. Jeff Fletcher, the architect, designed a stylish deck that suits the slope. We worked with geotechnical engineers, structural engineers and the council to get it consented and built.
The frame is steel for structural strength and resistance to the coastal environment. Steel also means no chemicals leaching into the ground. The decking is FSC certified kwila. It is durable and suits the natural setting.
The solution
The result
The build took longer than we first expected. From site measure to completion it took about six weeks. The client now has a usable entertaining area, safe edges and a wider harbour view from the garden. They were thrilled with it.
The deck needs little to no maintenance. The owners want the kwila to weather naturally over time.
Steep sites like this can look impossible. With the right expertise, they can become the best part of a property.
Before
After
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take?
The Wedge Deck took about six weeks from site measure to completion. Difficult sites can take longer than expected, so allow for that.
What materials suit a coastal deck?
Steel gives strength and holds up in coastal conditions. FSC certified kwila is durable and looks great as it weathers.
What does a deck on a steep site cost?
Every site is different. Foundations, access and engineering all affect the price. The best next step is a site visit with Build Two.
Can you build a deck on a steep section in Wellington?
Often, yes. It takes careful planning, the right engineering and an experienced team. The Wedge Deck was built 17 metres above sea level on a cliff face.
Can you build on a site with a history of slips?
It can be done with expert input. On this job we worked with geotechnical and structural engineers. We also chose screwed piles to keep disturbance to the slip site low.
What are screwed piles and why use them?
They are steel piles that are screwed into the ground. They cause less disturbance than methods that need heavy digging. That matters on unstable ground.
Do I need building consent for a deck on a slope?
On this project we needed both consent and geotechnical input. We helped manage the engineers and the council process for the client.
How do you build when access is difficult?
It takes planning and hands-on work. At Paremata, all materials came through a narrow garden path and were moved by hand.
How much maintenance does it need?
Very little. Many owners choose to let kwila weather naturally.
Trusted by homeowners across Wellington
Tawa, Porirua, Whitby, Pukerua Bay, Plimmerton, Paremata, Paekakariki, Kapiti, Raumati, Paraparaumu, Waikanae, Te Horo, Otaki, Levin and everywhere in between.
Contact Sam
Phone 027 726 3663
Email info@buildtwo.co.nz
56 Muri Road, Pukerua Bay, Porirua 5026
Consulting hours:
Mon – Fri: 7:30am – 6pm
Build two© . All rights reserved.
Designed & built by Buzz Marketing
