Choosing Decking Materials: Timber vs. Composite

Picture this: you're planning your dream outdoor space, ready for summer barbecues and lazy Sunday afternoons. But when it comes to choosing the decking material, you're stuck between the classic charm of timber and the modern appeal of composite. It's a bit like choosing between a vintage car that needs regular TLC and a new model that practically drives itself. Let's break down which option might be right for your home.

The Upfront Costs: What's Your Budget?

When you're looking at your wallet, timber generally wins the initial price battle. You're looking at:

• Timber decking: $220–$330 per square metre (from treated pine to premium hardwoods)
• Composite decking: $350–$500 per square metre

But here's the catch – timber's lower upfront cost comes with ongoing maintenance expenses that can add up over time. It's like buying a cheaper car that needs regular servicing versus a more expensive one that just needs the occasional wash.

Maintenance: The Long-Term Commitment

This is where the real difference lies between these two materials:

• Timber requires regular TLC – think annual or biannual sealing, oiling, or painting to keep it looking fresh and protected from the harsh Aussie sun
• Composite needs just basic cleaning with soap and water – no sealing, no repainting, no fuss

Timber decks can develop splinters, cracks, and warping over time, while composite boards are engineered to resist these common issues. If you're not keen on regular maintenance, composite might be your best mate.

Durability and Lifespan: Which Stands the Test of Time?

Australian weather can be brutal on outdoor materials, and here's how they stack up:

• Timber typically lasts 10–20+ years depending on the wood type and how well you maintain it
• Composite often comes with 20–30+ year warranties and can easily last that long with minimal care

Composite decking is specially designed to handle our climate – it's resistant to mould, rot, pests, and termites. Timber, especially softer varieties, can be vulnerable to these issues unless properly treated and maintained.

Comfort and Practical Considerations

There are some practical differences that might sway your decision:

• Timber stays cooler underfoot in hot weather – perfect for bare feet on scorching summer days
• Composite can get quite hot in direct sunlight – not ideal if you have kids or pets who love running around outside
• Timber offers that authentic natural look with unique grain patterns
• Composite provides consistent colour and texture but lacks the genuine wood feel

Environmental Impact: Which is Greener?

Both materials have their environmental pros and cons:

• Timber from sustainable sources (look for FSC certification) is renewable and biodegradable
• Composite uses recycled plastics and wood fibres, helping divert waste from landfill

It's a trade-off between using a natural, renewable resource and recycling materials that would otherwise end up in our environment.

Final Takeaway: Making Your Choice

So, which decking material should you choose for your Australian home?

Choose timber if: You love the authentic natural look, don't mind regular maintenance, want lower upfront costs, and prefer a cooler surface underfoot.

Choose composite if: You want minimal maintenance, maximum durability, longer lifespan, and are willing to pay more upfront for these benefits.

Think about your lifestyle, budget, and how much time you're willing to spend on upkeep. Whether you go for the timeless charm of timber or the modern convenience of composite, both can create a beautiful outdoor space that'll be the envy of your neighbourhood.