Are you thinking about adding a deck to your home but not sure if composite decking is the way to go?
You’re not alone.
Many homeowners are weighing their options between traditional wood and composite decking.
Composite decking has gained popularity for its durability and ease of maintenance, offering an appealing alternative to natural timber decking.
Made from a mix of wood fibres and recycled materials, it’s touted as a more sustainable and low-maintenance choice.
In this article, we’ll dive deep into what makes composite decking stand out, its pros and cons, and how it compares to wood decking, so you can decide if it’s the right fit for your backyard project.
What is Composite Decking?
Composite decking is a modern decking material that stands as a robust alternative to traditional timber decking. At its core, composite decking boards are made from a blend of wood fibres and recycled materials, including recycled plastic. This innovative combination results in decking that offers the natural beauty of wood without the extensive maintenance wood decking demands.
If you want some more information about composite decking generally, you can find some more information in our guide here.
What are the advantages of composite decking?
There are many reasons why people choose composite decking for their outdoor projects. Below, we’ve summarised some of the best advantages of composite decking.
- Long-Lasting Durability: Composite decking shines in its ability to endure. Made from composite materials that blend wood fibres with recycled plastics, this combination of materials means that composite deck boards are built to resist fading, staining, and scratching. Unlike traditional wood decking, composite decks don’t splinter, warp, or rot, ensuring a safer and more comfortable surface for walking barefoot.
- Low Maintenance: Say goodbye to the yearly ritual of sanding, staining, and sealing that comes with timber decking. Composite decking boards require minimal upkeep—just a simple washdown with soap and water now and then keeps them looking fresh. This significant reduction in maintenance saves time and money over the lifespan of your deck.
- Eco-Friendly Choice: For those looking to make environmentally responsible choices, composite decking ticks all the boxes. It’s made from recycled materials, combining wood waste with recycled plastics, thereby reducing landfill waste. Choosing composite decking helps conserve natural timber resources and reduces the carbon emissions associated with the production and processing of building materials.
- Aesthetic Versatility: With a wide range of colours, textures, and finishes, composite decking offers unparalleled aesthetic flexibility. Whether you’re aiming for the classic look of natural timber or a modern, sleek design, there’s a composite decking option to suit every taste. Advanced manufacturing techniques ensure that composite decking mimics the natural beauty of wood, including grain patterns and colour variations, without the drawbacks of real timber.
- Enhanced Safety Features: Composite decking is designed with safety in mind. Its slip-resistant surface makes it a safer choice for areas near pools or in rainy climates. Additionally, composite decks do not splinter, reducing the risk of injuries during barefoot walks.
- Value Addition: While the initial cost of composite decking might be higher than timber decking, its durability and low maintenance requirements offer long-term savings. And installing composite decking can increase your home’s value, making it an attractive feature for potential buyers.
Continuing with our comprehensive look at composite decking, let’s explore some of the disadvantages and considerations homeowners should be aware of.
Disadvantages of Composite Decking
Here are some of the potential downsides of composite decking that you should be aware of.
Higher Initial Investment: Perhaps the most notable drawback of composite decking is its upfront cost. When comparing composite decking prices to those of natural timber, composite materials can be more expensive initially. This higher initial investment is due to the manufacturing process and the quality of the materials used. However, it’s important to consider the long-term savings composite decking offers in terms of minimal maintenance and durability.
Limited Repair Options: In the event of damage, repairing composite decking can be more challenging than fixing a timber deck. Because composite boards are manufactured, matching the colour and texture for repairs may be difficult, especially if the specific product line has been discontinued. As composite deck boards are highly durable, the chances of damage are less than if you were to build a deck of other materials.
Do the Pros Outweigh the Cons? Is Composite Decking Good?
Here are some of the potential downsides of composite decking that you should be aware of.
Higher Initial Investment: Perhaps the most notable drawback of composite decking is its upfront cost. When comparing composite decking prices to those of natural timber, composite materials can be more expensive initially. This higher initial investment is due to the manufacturing process and the quality of the materials used. However, it’s important to consider the long-term savings composite decking offers in terms of minimal maintenance and durability.
Limited Repair Options: In the event of damage, repairing composite decking can be more challenging than fixing a timber deck. Because composite boards are manufactured, matching the colour and texture for repairs may be difficult, especially if the specific product line has been discontinued. As composite deck boards are highly durable, the chances of damage are less than if you were to build a deck of other materials.
So, how do I choose the best composite decking for me?
When you’re searching for the right composite decking in Australia, you need to consider the product’s performance history, especially under Australian conditions. It’s crucial to choose decking that has been rigorously tested for durability, slip resistance, and compliance with Australian standards.
The support and service offered by the decking brand are equally important, including the availability of accredited installers, warranty terms, and customer service. These factors ensure not only the quality of the product but also the longevity and satisfaction of your decking project.
In the landscape of composite decking in Australia, at WoodEvo we stand out as a leading choice, embodying the qualities homeowners seek for their outdoor spaces. WoodEvo composite decking products have been developed with the Australian climate in mind, offering unmatched durability and resistance to the elements. Our brand’s commitment to excellence is evident in its rigorous testing protocols, ensuring each product meets the highest standards of quality and performance. Learn more about our ratings and certifications here.
What sets WoodEvo apart is not just the superior quality of our decking but also the comprehensive support and service framework we provide. We go beyond merely supplying decking materials; we offers a partnership. From finding the right colour and style to suit your home to connecting you with accredited installers, WoodEvo ensures a seamless and supported decking project from start to finish. Additionally, the brand’s confidence in its products is reflected in its extensive warranty period of 25 years, including a 5-year labour warranty, promising peace of mind and long-term satisfaction.
Choosing WoodEvo means investing in a decking solution that will endure the Australian climate while maintaining its beauty and functionality, backed by a team dedicated to your project’s success. It’s this combination of product excellence and customer-focused service that makes WoodEvo the right composite decking brand for discerning Australian homeowners.
Conclusion: Is Composite Decking a Good Choice?
The short answer is yes!
Composite decking emerges as a standout choice for those prioritising durability, low maintenance, and environmental sustainability. Its ability to resist the common downfalls of natural timber—without demanding constant upkeep—makes it a wise investment for the long haul. And while the initial cost may be higher, the payoff in saved time, effort, and money on maintenance can be significant.
However, the true value of composite decking is not just in its practical benefits but in the flexibility, it offers to create an outdoor space that reflects your style and meets your living needs. Whether you’re basking in the sun on a hot summer day or hosting a backyard barbecue, a composite deck provides a beautiful, comfortable, and safe setting for making memories.
So, is composite decking good? For those looking to blend aesthetics with functionality and environmental responsibility, the answer is yes – Composite decking offers all the benefits of a dream deck with very little of the hassle.
If you want to learn more about the composite decking options available at WoodEvo, you can get in touch with us here. We can send samples wherever you are in Australia, discuss our composite materials, and if you happen to be in Melbourne, you can make an appointment to visit our showroom.