Decking is one of the first things we think of when it comes to D.I.Y. projects, but have you considered the different types of decking available to tackle your project? Did you know that a few kinds of timber decking will significantly impact durability, quality, cost, and so much more?

Before starting your next project, you might benefit from knowing the different materials you can find for a timber-based project, helping you secure the highest quality tools possible.

At Trade Warehouse, we ensure that you have all the information about composite wood decking and its differences from wood decking or natural timber so you can begin your project with total confidence.

To help, we've compiled this complete guide to composite decking vs. wood decking, providing the basic definition, differences, and pros and cons of both materials.

What is composite decking?

Before we get into the specific differences between composite decking and wood decking, it's essential that we first understand what precisely composite wood decking is. Composite decking products, or, more specifically, composite lumber, is a type of material that combines wood fibre, plastic, and binding agents.

This provides similar uses to wood deck boards but a more robust and more durable structure than just using wood alone. In other words, this is a wood-plastic composite.

Composite decks and lumbar are made by heating the mixture of fibres and plastic and then moulding this into timber board-like shapes. After this, the composite is cooled to form a solid structure.

One of the key reasons we use composite materials instead of pure plastic or wood alternatives is that this provides a more authentic hardwood timber look without sacrificing the longevity and durability of purely plastic alternatives.

Types of composite decking

There are a couple of types of composite boards currently available. These are capped and uncapped. Below is a brief guide to these two types of composite decking boards:

Capped

Capped boards come with an additional exterior plastic coating. This composite deck is resistant to staining and colour leaching and is fade-resistant. Capped boards tend to be a more expensive option in composite decking prices, but additional protection benefits justify a pricier tag.

Uncapped

Uncapped boards are still very hard-wearing despite not having an additional protective layer, but these composite deck options may be less fade resistant than alternatives. That means you may experience some fading once this is exposed to the outside elements such as sunlight or rain.

Additionally, you might experience some staining if you spill or tarnish the board. Finally, you might notice some fading after installing uncapped outdoor decking in the first few months. This is because tannins (A.K.A. wood oiling) leach out from the boards.

Despite some favourable qualities, uncapped options are significantly cheaper while still offering you a decent amount of protection and durability. So, you might benefit from uncapped composite decking if you care about the price tag.

Is there a difference in installation?

In short, no. There's no discernable difference between installing composite timber boards as opposed to traditional timber boards. Depending on the product you invest in, you might even find that installing composite boards is much easier, as additional grooves in the decking make it much easier to hide fasteners.

Differences between composite decking and wood decking boards

Significant differences between composite decking and traditional timber decking are essential to consider when deciding between the two. Here's a guide to the six differences you may notice when assessing composite vs. wood decking.

Cost

One of the first things you'll notice when looking at composite decking is the difference in the cost. Usually, the cost of traditional timber will depend on the type of wood you choose. Comparably speaking, composite decking costs are much similar to hardwood decking. 

While this may come with an elevated price, the quality you get is well worth the extra few pennies!

Standard timber, while cheaper, typically costs more to maintain. You'll also need to pay additional fees for treatments, colourants, and staining to keep it working at its best. This means that timber decking tends to cost more over time.

Environmental factors

Timber and composite decking have unique environmental factors that make them both favourable options for those trying to live more sustainably. Timber is typically the most environmentally friendly option as they're usually 100% recyclable and responsibly sourced.

Composite decking, although using plastic, uses recycled wood fibres, and suppliers may source recycled plastics for additional sustainability. Despite this, plastic still does have an environmental impact due to by-products, how long it takes to degrade, production processes, and more.

Strength

Composite decking is much more durable in terms of its ability to withstand adverse weather and the test of time compared to timber. However, not all is lost for timber. In terms of structural strength, timber is far superior.

This is because composite decking usually requires additional structural support. After all, it's not a structural material in itself. However, this is easy to combat. Simple joists will easily prevent any sagging or breakages, which may incur more costs.

Lifespan

Composite decking is far superior in terms of lifespan. This decking type will serve for at least two decades with little maintenance. The most you'll need to do is regularly clean your composite material. You'll benefit from a very long life if you don't overly scratch the material.

On the other hand, timber doesn't have quite as long of a lifespan. Timber decking has a short lifespan because it is prone to breakages, warping, and more. On top of this, it requires much more maintenance than the composite alternative.

Look

The look and feel of composite and timber will depend on the type you choose. However, composite decking has the most timber benefits, including the rustic and natural feel while providing anti-slip properties.

However, timber provides users with much more versatility. You can stain timber, use different colourants and easily change the look and feel of your timber. At the same time, composite decking requires extensive changes to make simple aesthetic changes.

Pros and cons of composite decking and wood timber decking boards

When deciding between traditional timber or composite decking, it's essential to assess the pros and cons of each material. This will help you decide which material best accommodates your needs and accessibility requirements and will help you determine whether those composite decking prices are worth it. Here's a guide to some pros and cons.

Wood

Pros

• very quick to install
• can find sustainable versions that are recyclable while still being of premium quality
• sometimes cheaper
• provides a more natural timber look to your backyard
• often comes with fire retardant treatments

Cons

• quickly rots and splinters in adverse weather, especially heavy rainfall
• very high maintenance in comparison to composite decking
• very slippery after rainfall
• more durable options tend to be more expensive

Composite decking

Pros

• very low maintenance in comparison to traditional timber
• more durable
• no rot due to mould-resistant material
• won't splinter, warp or grow algae
• usually anti-slip
• sustainable choice due to the use of recycled materials

Cons

• sometimes lacks the wood feel
• difficult to repair if damaged
• can't stain after installation if you decide to change colours
• easy to scratch

Summary

If you're deciding whether you should choose composite decking or traditional timber, there are many things you'll need to consider. Your budget, aesthetic values, cleaning requirements, environmental values and accessibility will all need to play a part in your decision-making process.

No matter your decision, Trade Warehouse is ready to provide you with the materials you need to create excellent timber or composite decking projects, like decking screws and nails. We offer our customers nationwide delivery, so no one misses out on premium quality products for incredible prices.

If you'd like to learn more about the materials you're likely to use for your next D.I.Y. project, why not check out our blog, where we discuss a range of other D.I.Y. topics, from the different types of screws to bathroom installations.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is composite decking worth the money?

Yes. Although composite decking may have a larger price tag, the benefits include stain resistance, easy maintenance and longevity, making this price worth it!

Is composite decking slippery when wet?

No. Unlike timber decking, composite decking is not slippery when wet and doesn't grow algae which can increase slip hazards. That means homeowners can breathe a sigh of relief when walking on their decking after a rainstorm.

How long does composite decking last?

Composite decking doesn't warp or splinter, especially in adverse weather, so you'll be able to enjoy a composite deck for around 20-30 years.