Composite vs Timber Decking: Which is best for you?
Choosing new decking is one of the best ways to upgrade your outdoor space—but with so many options available, it can be hard to know where to start.
The two most popular choices are composite decking and traditional timber decking. Each has its own benefits and drawbacks, a lot depends on what you want from your decking.
What Is Timber Decking?
Timber decking is made from natural wood, such as treated softwood or hardwood. It’s been used for years and remains a popular option thanks to its timeless appearance, which is its main benefit: you can't get a more natural look than wood. Timber decking can also be painted or stained to match your style and is the cheapest form of decking.
Timber decking does require more regular maintenance than composite: sealing and re-treating is a must for it to last, and timber can crack, warp or rot over time. Timber decking can be slippery in wet weather, all things to consider.
What Is Composite Decking?
Composite decking is made from a mix of recycled wood fibres and plastic. This means there is no sanding or sealing required and makes composite long lasting and highly durable, as well as being resistant to rot. Composite is splinter free and a lot less slippery than its timber counterpart in wet weather.
Composite cannot be easily painted or re-stained and over time does fade (however most composites today usually only fade by 5-10%). Depending on colour and placement, composite can get warmer than timber in direct sunlight.
Cost Comparison
While timber decking is cheaper upfront, the long-term costs can add up. Timber decking has a lifespan on average of around 10-15 years, with ongoing maintenance needed which are additional costs.
Composite decking is more expensive, but with a lifespan of 20-30+ years and minimal maintenance, over time could be the cheaper option.
What are the pros and cons?
Timber decking pros:
Natural finish providing a rustic, warm look
Affordability, cheaper up front cost than composite
Easier to cut and shape than composite
Doesn't absorb as much heat as composite
Can be easily sanded, stained or repaired
Timber decking cons:
Can become very slippery when wet
Needs annual maintenance
Can warp, split or crack over time
Susceptible to mould, fungi, algae, and wood rot, especially in damp environments
Composite decking pros:
Minimal maintenance, easier to look after
Very long lasting, 20-30+years
Highly durable, splinter free
Highly resistant to rot, mould, fading and insects
Made from recycled plastics, so eco-friendly
Composite decking cons:
Expensive initial outlay
Decking can and does fade
Lacks the feel of real wood
Can get a lot warmer than timber decking in direct sunlight
So, what is best for me?
Ultimately, the answer is different from person to person. You need to take things like budget, decking placement, whether you want it to last and whether you don't mind regular maintenance.