How Much Does Timber Flooring Cost in Melbourne? (2026 Guide)

What is Timber Flooring and Treated Pine and Why is it Popular in Melbourne?

When it comes to elevating the aesthetic and value of a home in Melbourne, few materials carry the prestige and timeless appeal of timber. Timber flooring refers to any flooring product derived from real wood, ranging from traditional solid hardwood planks to modern engineered solutions. In the Melbourne market, timber is prized for its warmth, natural variation, and its unique ability to age gracefully alongside a property.

Complementing the decorative aspect of flooring is treated pine. Treated pine is timber that has been infused with chemical preservatives to protect it against termites, fungal decay, and the harsh Australian elements. While you wouldn’t typically see treated pine as the finished surface of an indoor living room, it is the backbone of Melbourne’s building industry. It is the go-to material for subfloor framing (joists and bearers), external decking, and structural support. In a city like Melbourne, where the weather can swing from scorching heat to damp winters in a single afternoon, the durability of treated pine is non-negotiable.

So, why does Melbourne have such a love affair with these materials? Firstly, timber acts as a natural insulator. For Melbourne homeowners facing rising energy costs, timber’s thermal mass helps keep homes warmer in winter and cooler in summer compared to tiles or stone. Secondly, there is the “lifestyle factor.” Whether it’s a heritage cottage in Yarraville or a modern build in Mickleham, timber flooring provides a seamless transition between indoor and outdoor living spaces. Finally, from a builder’s perspective, working with high-quality timber and treated pine from suppliers like 5Star Fencing & Decking Supplies ensures structural integrity that meets strict Victorian building codes.

How Much Does Timber Flooring and Treated Pine Cost in Melbourne?

As of 2026, the cost of timber flooring in Melbourne has stabilised following several years of supply chain fluctuations. However, prices vary significantly based on the species of wood, the thickness of the plank, and the “grade” (the amount of natural knots and features visible). For those looking at structural needs or outdoor extensions, treated pine remains the most cost-effective solution for framing and decking bases.

Below is a comprehensive price breakdown for supply-only materials in the Melbourne market for 2026. Please note that these are warehouse-direct estimates, and prices can fluctuate based on seasonal availability.

Material / Option	Price per sqm (Supply Only)	Notes
Solid Australian Hardwood (Blackbutt/Jarrah)	$115 – $185	Premium 19mm thick planks; requires sanding and polishing.
Engineered Timber Flooring	$85 – $155	Real timber veneer over a stable core; pre-finished and DIY friendly.
Victorian Ash (Solid)	$95 – $140	A local favourite with a light, contemporary straw-coloured finish.
Hybrid Flooring (Timber Look)	$45 – $75	Highly durable, waterproof alternative for high-traffic areas.
Treated Pine Decking (90mm)	$25 – $40	The most affordable outdoor flooring/decking option.
Treated Pine Sleepers (H4 Rated)	$15 – $35 (per sleeper)	Essential for retaining walls and garden edging.
Merbau Decking	$65 – $95	Naturally oily and durable; Melbourne’s #1 choice for outdoor timber.

When budgeting for your project, remember that “Select Grade” timber—which features fewer natural imperfections—will always sit at the higher end of the price spectrum. Conversely, “Standard” or “Character Grade” timber, which showcases more knots and grain variation, offers a more rustic look at a lower price point. At 5Star Fencing & Decking Supplies, we assist both the public and trades in selecting the right grade for their specific budget.

Factors That Affect the Cost

Estimating the cost of timber flooring in Melbourne isn’t just about the price per square metre. Several variables can push a quote up or down. Understanding these factors is key to avoiding “sticker shock” during your renovation or build.

1. Timber Species and Rarity

The type of tree the wood comes from is the biggest price driver. Australian natives like Spotted Gum and Ironbark are incredibly dense and fire-resistant, making them premium choices that command a higher price. In contrast, imported species or softer timbers like Victorian Ash are generally more accessible. Rare reclaimed timbers can also attract a premium due to the labour involved in sourcing and milling them.

2. Plank Width and Thickness

In 2026, wide-board flooring (180mm+) continues to be a major design trend in Melbourne. However, wider boards require more stable timber and are more difficult to mill without warping, making them more expensive than standard 80mm or 90mm planks. Similarly, the thickness of the “wear layer” on engineered timber will affect the price; a thicker layer allows for more future sands and refinishes.

3. Grade of Timber

As mentioned, timber is graded by its appearance. “Select Grade” is uniform and clean, whereas “Feature Grade” contains gum veins and knots. If you are on a budget, opting for Feature Grade not only saves money but also provides a unique, natural “Australiana” look that many homeowners actually prefer.

4. Subfloor Preparation

You cannot lay high-quality timber on a poor-quality surface. If your concrete slab is uneven, it will require self-levelling compounds. If you are installing over an old timber subfloor, you may need to replace rotted joists with new treated pine. These “invisible” costs can add $10 to $30 per square metre to your total project cost.

5. Coating and Finish

Are you buying pre-finished boards, or raw timber that needs to be sanded and polished on-site? Pre-finished boards (common in engineered flooring) allow for immediate use, whereas raw solid timber requires hiring a professional sander and finisher, plus the cost of the polyurethane or oil finish itself.

Supply-Only vs Installed Cost

One of the most common questions we receive at our Ravenhall, Pakenham, and Mickleham warehouses is whether it is better to buy the materials and DIY or hire a professional. Here is how the costs break down in 2026.

Supply-Only Cost

Buying supply-only from a warehouse like 5Star Fencing & Decking Supplies is the most cost-effective route. You are paying the direct wholesale price for the material. For a standard 80sqm living area using mid-range engineered timber at $90/sqm, your material cost is roughly $7,200 (plus waste and accessories).

Installed Cost

Professional installation in Melbourne typically costs between $40 and $70 per square metre, depending on the complexity of the layout and the method of installation (e.g., direct stick vs. floating).

• Floating Floor Installation: $35–$50 per sqm.
• Direct Stick (Glued) Installation: $55–$75 per sqm.
• Sand and Polish (Raw Timber): $40–$60 per sqm.

Using the same 80sqm example, adding professional installation could increase your total investment to anywhere between $11,000 and $14,000. While DIY saves money, professional installers provide warranties and ensure that expansion gaps are correctly managed—a vital step given Melbourne’s humidity shifts.

Tips to Save Money on Your Timber Flooring Project

A new floor is a significant investment, but there are several ways to reduce the “timber flooring cost Melbourne” without sacrificing quality.

• Buy Warehouse Direct: Avoid the massive markups of boutique flooring showrooms. 5Star Fencing & Decking Supplies offers warehouse-direct pricing to the public, meaning you get trade prices without needing a membership.
• Factor in 10% Waste: It sounds counterintuitive to buy more to save money, but ordering exactly what you need often leads to expensive “top-up” orders later, which include extra delivery fees. Ordering 10% extra for cuts and waste ensures you have enough from the same batch/dye lot.
• Choose Hybrid for Low-Traffic Areas: If you love the look of timber but want to save in areas like laundries or butler’s pantries, consider a high-quality Hybrid floor that mimics your timber choice at half the cost.
• Do Your Own Demolition: Removing old carpet or tiles yourself is labour-intensive but can save you hundreds in professional labour fees.
• Maintain Your Subfloor: Using high-quality H3 or H4 treated pine for your subfloor structures prevents future rot and sagging, which can be incredibly expensive to fix once the finished floor is laid.

Where to Buy Timber Flooring and Treated Pine in Melbourne

For the best value and expert advice in 2026, 5Star Fencing & Decking Supplies remains the premier destination for Melbourne homeowners and tradespeople alike. We pride ourselves on being more than just a hardware store; we are a direct-to-public warehouse with three convenient locations across the metropolitan area.

Whether you are looking for premium Merbau decking to finish an outdoor area, or structural treated pine for a new subfloor, we stock a massive range of products ready for immediate pickup or delivery. Our USP is simple: Warehouse-direct pricing, trade and public welcome, and no membership required.

You can visit us at any of our three Melbourne hubs:

• Ravenhall: 51 Eucumbene Dr, Ravenhall VIC 3023 | Ph: 0444 527 142
• Pakenham: 1/1225 Koo Wee Rup Rd, Pakenham VIC 3810 | Ph: 0480 603 113
• Mickleham: 1 Firethorn Drive, Mickleham VIC 3064 | Ph: 0482 277 142

By choosing 5Star, you are supporting a local business that understands the specific needs of the Melbourne building landscape. From Colorbond fencing to WPC cladding and every type of treated pine in between, we have the stock to get your project finished on time and under budget.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is solid timber better than engineered timber for Melbourne homes?

Neither is “better,” but they serve different needs. Solid timber is a lifetime investment that can be sanded back many times, making it ideal for heritage renovations. Engineered timber is more stable in Melbourne’s fluctuating climate, as its layered construction resists the shrinking and expanding that can affect solid wood.

Can I use treated pine for indoor flooring?

Treated pine is not intended for use as a finished indoor floor surface due to the chemicals used in the treatment process and its aesthetic grain. However, it is the standard material for the structural joists and bearers underneath your floorboards, providing the necessary rot and termite resistance required for Victorian homes.

How long does it take to install timber flooring?

For an average 3-bedroom Melbourne home, installation usually takes 3 to 5 days. This includes subfloor preparation and the laying of the boards. If you choose raw solid timber, you will need to add an additional 3 to 7 days for the sanding and drying of the coats.

Does timber flooring increase the resale value of a house in Melbourne?

Absolutely. Real estate experts consistently agree that timber flooring is one of the most sought-after features for Melbourne buyers. It is perceived as a high-end finish that is cleaner and more durable than carpet, often providing a significant return on investment when it comes time to sell.

How do I maintain my timber floors in Victoria’s climate?

The key to maintenance in Melbourne is managing humidity. Use a humidifier or dehumidifier during extreme seasons to keep the timber stable. For cleaning, never use a wet mop; instead, use a damp microfibre mop with a pH-neutral timber cleaner. Placing rugs in high-traffic areas and using felt protectors on furniture will also prevent scratches.

Get the Best Prices on Timber and Treated Pine Today!

Planning your next project? Don’t pay retail prices for your building materials. Whether you’re a builder looking for bulk treated pine or a homeowner searching for the perfect decking, 5Star Fencing & Decking Supplies has you covered.

With three massive warehouses across Ravenhall, Pakenham, and Mickleham, we are Melbourne’s #1 choice for quality, price, and service. Skip the middleman and buy direct from the experts.

Contact us today:
Website: 5startimberandhardware.com.au
Email: 5startimberandhardware@gmail.com
Visit us at: Ravenhall, Pakenham, or Mickleham for a free quote!