How to Choose the Right Material for Your Deck. Timber or Composite?

Are you a lover of the great outdoors and enjoy socializing and spending time outside when relaxing at home? If so, look no further than installing a deck at your property. Offering the perfect space to entertain, you can choose a deck to suit your priorities and style.

Gone are the days of congregating on the porch or patio. A deck can be a social hub for neighbours to converse, a dining area to host friends, a space to sit and enjoy the summer breeze, or a setting for the greatest BBQs in the neighbourhood! In contrast but equally important, your deck can provide a level of privacy not possible with a front porch - it can provide comfort and relaxation each morning as you sip away on your coffee, or it can be used as your own yoga studio. The options available for the design and utilization of your decking are endless!

Sound too good to be true?

No! However, there is a vital decision to make when choosing your deck. The materials used must be based on your lifestyle and priorities. Read on and hopefully your choice on whether to use timber or composite for your deck will be made clearer.

Timber

Timber has been the go-to material of Australian decks for generations. Its authentic look is highly desired and the elegance of a well-installed timber decking speaks for itself. The sweet scent of water on a poolside decking might not be enough to make your mind up one way or the other, but it deserves a mention! Nevertheless, there are important factors to consider before choosing this material. The maintenance and upkeep, whilst achievable, is meticulously required in order to keep its natural good looks and charm. Timber decks can last up to fifteen years but only with a consistent maintenance program. It must be coated once a year (at the very least) to fight off decay and rot. If your decking is close to a pool or uncovered and therefore open to all the elements, then a more regular coating is required. Make sure you the appropriate decking screw for securing your timber deck. Always use 316 grade stainless steel decking screws if you live within 300m of the ocean or around salt-water pools. However, for those of you who might not have the time to commit to a consistent upkeep of your deck, then there is a good alternative material...

Composite

Fibre-cement and wood plastic composite require very minimal maintenance. They are far more resistant to all weather conditions and moisture from swimming pools will have no effect. Whilst timber decking requires a strong air-flow underneath to ensure the health of the wood remains, composite decking can be built close to the ground, increasing your landscaping options. Now, for those of you who can’t see past the natural beauty of the timber deck, fear not. Composite decking can be customized in a vast array of colours to match your home or suit your style. In addition, they are more durable and will outlast timber decks, arguably adding more long-term value to your home.

Choose wisely

Two fantastic options with their own pros and cons. Consider carefully the decking material you believe best suits you and there’ll be no looking back. Good luck with your choice!