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Outdoor Living Guides & Tips

Expert advice on pergolas, patios, decking, and outdoor living from Melbourne's trusted builders.

All Posts (21)Buying GuidesPricingPermits & RegulationsMaterialsInstallationProduct ReviewsDesign IdeasTips & AdviceProperty ValueMaintenanceRegulationsAdvice
How Much Does a Pergola Cost in Melbourne? (2024 Price Guide)
Pricing

How Much Does a Pergola Cost in Melbourne? (2024 Price Guide)

Get real pergola pricing for Melbourne including materials, installation, and hidden costs. Updated for 2024 with examples from recent projects.

10 November 20249 min read
Do I Need Council Approval for a Pergola in Melbourne?
Permits & Regulations

Do I Need Council Approval for a Pergola in Melbourne?

Navigate Melbourne council permits for pergolas, patios, and carports. Learn what requires approval and how to avoid costly compliance issues.

5 November 20246 min read
The Best Pergola Roofing Options for Melbourne Weather
Materials

The Best Pergola Roofing Options for Melbourne Weather

Compare Colorbond, polycarbonate, insulated panels, and louvre roofs. Find the perfect roofing for your Melbourne pergola.

28 October 20248 min read
Timber vs Aluminium Pergola: Which Lasts Longer in Melbourne?
Materials

Timber vs Aluminium Pergola: Which Lasts Longer in Melbourne?

Compare the durability, maintenance, and cost of timber versus aluminium pergolas for Melbourne conditions.

20 October 20247 min read
How Long Does Pergola Installation Take? (Realistic Timeline)
Installation

How Long Does Pergola Installation Take? (Realistic Timeline)

Understand the real timeline for pergola installation in Melbourne, from initial quote to completion, including permits and weather delays.

15 October 20245 min read
Are Louvre Roof Pergolas Worth the Money? (Honest Review)
Product Reviews

Are Louvre Roof Pergolas Worth the Money? (Honest Review)

An honest assessment of louvre roof pergolas: costs, benefits, maintenance, and whether they justify the premium price.

8 October 20248 min read
The Best Decking Materials for Melbourne Homes (2024 Guide)
Materials

The Best Decking Materials for Melbourne Homes (2024 Guide)

Compare timber, composite, and aluminium decking for Melbourne conditions. Real performance data and maintenance requirements.

1 October 20249 min read
Carport vs Garage: Which Is Best for Your Melbourne Home?
Buying Guides

Carport vs Garage: Which Is Best for Your Melbourne Home?

Weighing up a carport versus garage? Compare costs, benefits, planning requirements, and which suits Melbourne properties.

20 September 20247 min read
Planning an Outdoor Kitchen Under Your Pergola
Design Ideas

Planning an Outdoor Kitchen Under Your Pergola

Everything you need to know about adding a kitchen to your pergola—appliances, materials, ventilation, and council requirements.

12 September 20248 min read
Stratco Outback Patio: Honest Review from a Licensed Installer
Product Reviews

Stratco Outback Patio: Honest Review from a Licensed Installer

A professional installer's honest review of Stratco Outback patio systems—quality, value, and who they're best suited for.

5 September 20247 min read
Choosing the Right Colorbond Colours for Your Pergola
Design Ideas

Choosing the Right Colorbond Colours for Your Pergola

How to select Colorbond colours that complement your home. Popular choices, matching tips, and common mistakes to avoid.

30 August 20246 min read
12 Stunning Pergola Lighting Ideas for Night Entertaining
Design Ideas

12 Stunning Pergola Lighting Ideas for Night Entertaining

Transform your pergola after dark with these lighting ideas, from integrated LEDs to festoon strings.

25 August 20246 min read
How to Use Your Pergola in Melbourne Winters
Tips & Advice

How to Use Your Pergola in Melbourne Winters

Make your pergola a year-round space with heating, blinds, and weatherproofing strategies.

18 August 20247 min read
Does a Pergola Add Value to Your Melbourne Home? (Data & Insights)
Property Value

Does a Pergola Add Value to Your Melbourne Home? (Data & Insights)

Real estate data on how pergolas affect property values in Melbourne. What buyers look for and ROI analysis.

10 August 20246 min read
15 Patio Ideas for Small Melbourne Backyards
Design Ideas

15 Patio Ideas for Small Melbourne Backyards

Maximise limited outdoor space with clever patio designs. Real examples from Melbourne courtyard homes.

1 August 20247 min read
The Complete Deck Maintenance Guide for Melbourne Homeowners
Maintenance

The Complete Deck Maintenance Guide for Melbourne Homeowners

Season-by-season deck care for Melbourne conditions. Cleaning, oiling, repairs, and when to call a professional.

25 July 20248 min read
Building a Bushfire-Rated Pergola in Melbourne (BAL Requirements)
Regulations

Building a Bushfire-Rated Pergola in Melbourne (BAL Requirements)

What you need to know about pergolas in bushfire-prone areas. BAL ratings, compliant materials, and design considerations.

18 July 20247 min read
Pool Pergola & Shade Ideas for Melbourne Summers
Design Ideas

Pool Pergola & Shade Ideas for Melbourne Summers

Create the perfect poolside retreat with a pergola. Design ideas, material considerations, and council requirements.

10 July 20246 min read
Why Choose a Local Melbourne Pergola Builder (Not a National Chain)
Advice

Why Choose a Local Melbourne Pergola Builder (Not a National Chain)

The advantages of working with a local builder like Undercover Concepts versus large national franchises.

1 July 20245 min read
Different Types of Carport Designs: Ideas for Every Australian Home
Buying Guides

Different Types of Carport Designs: Ideas for Every Australian Home

Explore popular carport designs from flat roof to gable styles. Learn about placement options, materials, costs, and council requirements for Melbourne homes.

15 June 202418 min read

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