When it’s time to lay down new decking, are you Team composite or Team Timber?

We have pros and cons of each type of decking no matter which one you prefer. 


Reading this could even change your mind and switch you to a different team. We’re not here to play favorites, so let’s get into the pros and cons of composite decking and timber decking. 

What is composite decking?

Composite decking comprises three elements including plastic, a binding agent, and wood fiber. Along with other chemicals to preserve the decking, composite decking will either be an uncapped wood composite or a capped wood composite. 

The capped wood composite means it is sealed with a plastic shell. This protects the composite decking from general wear and tear the environment will impose on it. Uncapped wood composite does not have this sealant. Hence, it can easily attract mold and other harmful bacteria. 

Pros

The pros of composite decking include:

  • Eco-friendly. 
  • Less maintenance than other decking options. 
  • A variety of color choices when choosing your decking. 
  • Does not have splinters like timber decking. 
  • Highly durable decking option. 

Cons

The cons of composite decking are:

  • Can deteriorate faster because it’s vulnerable to bacteria, moisture, and other pollutants. 
  • Cannot withstand constant UV ray exposure. 
  • The cellular structure breaks down over time. 

What is timber decking?

Timber decking is made with hardwood or softwoods. It’s an all-natural decking solution that is only made with its specific wood type without any additives. The only additives would be if the client decides to have their deck sealed with a wood preservative. 

Woods such as redwood, cedar, and Douglas fir are some of the most common choices when it comes to timber decking, and here are the pros and cons of utilizing these natural materials. 

Pros

The pros of timber decking are:

  • Cost-effective decking choice. 
  • Helps boost property value if you plan to sell your home. 
  • Highly durable material. 
  • Visually pleasing for you and your visitors. 
  • The best decking for indoor-outdoor family homes. 

Cons

Cons of timber decking include:

  • Less life expectancy because it’s a cheaper decking material.
  • More high maintenance than composite decking. 
  • Needs cleaning and resealing every year.

 

The Best Decking Option: Composite vs Timber

So what is the best decking option? Weigh the pros and cons of each type for you to decide which one is the best. 

Composite decking requires less maintenance than timber decking. Both options are durable. However, wood is more susceptible to rotting and termites than composite decking. 

Wood continues to be the most popular decking material because it is more cost-effective than composite decking. However, there is a lower life expectancy for wood decking versus composite decking. 

Timber decking offers more variety of color than composite options, but it still splinters. Composite decking will not splinter.

Weigh your budget and what color and design you want and other variables you want to consider before choosing timber or composite decking. 

Contact Demak for Your Decking Needs

Whether you want composite decking or timber decking, we will not tell you that you are wrong with your decision! 

Our popular option is Modwood decking since we are a timber supplier in Melbourne. Browse our timber decking options for more information before making your decision on whether you want to do composite decking or timber decking.