How to Decide Between Timber and Composite Decking?

Deciding between timber and composite decking can be challenging. Indeed, both materials have unique benefits and drawbacks, and choosing the right one depends on various factors. Therefore, in this blog, we will explore the key differences between timber and composite wood decking, ultimately helping you make an informed decision for your outdoor space. Now, let's dive into the details to understand which option consequently suits your needs best.

Understanding Timber Decking

Timber decking is a popular choice for many homeowners. It offers a natural look and feel that many people find appealing.

Pros of Timber Decking

Natural Aesthetic: Timber wood decking provides a warm and natural appearance. It blends well with the surrounding environment and enhances the beauty of your outdoor space.

Variety of Options: There are numerous types of timber available, such as cedar, redwood, and pressure-treated pine. Each type has its own unique look and characteristics.

Customizable: Timber can be easily cut and shaped to fit any design. You can create intricate patterns and designs that suit your style.

Renewable Resource: Timber is a renewable resource. When managed sustainably, it can be an environmentally friendly option.

Cons of Timber Decking

Maintenance: Timber requires regular maintenance. You need to sand, stain, and seal it periodically to keep it looking its best.

Durability: Timber is susceptible to rot, mould, and insect damage. Over time, it can warp or crack, especially if not properly maintained.

Cost: High-quality timber can be expensive. The cost of regular maintenance also adds up over time.

Understanding Composite Decking

Essentially, composite decking combines wood fibres and plastic, thus appearing like wood while providing longer durability.

Pros of Composite Decking

Low Maintenance: Composite Decking requires very low maintenance. It does not want staining sealing or sanding. With the use of soap and water, it can be cleaned instead.

Durability: Composite decking is rot, mould, and insect damage resistant, so it does not deteriorate easily. It does not warp or crack easily, ensuring its durability.

Various Colors, and Textures: It matches the colour and texture available in composite decks in all variegated forms of appearance, from wooden to more modern designs.

Environmentally Friendly: Most of these composite decking products are constructed from recycled sources, promoting good deeds towards the environment.

Cons of Composite Decking

Less Natural Appeal: The actual installation of composite decking is a more expensive process than wood.

The Appearance: Although composite decking has advanced towards a more appealing appearance and surface finish over the years, some people will always adore the real thing's natural appearance and grain.

Retains More Heat: It holds more heat compared to timber, making it feel uncomfortable to the feet in hot climatic conditions.

Factors to Consider When Selecting Decking

In choosing between timber and composite decking, you will have to consider the following requisites. Consider the following key points:

1. Budget

Initial Cost: Timber, at first, may seem less expensive, but high-quality timber and exotic wood may be very costly.

Long-Term Cost: The initial cost of composite decking is high.

2. Maintenance

Timber: Requires regular maintenance, including sanding, staining, and sealing.

Composite: Low maintenance, typically only needing regular cleaning with soap and water.

3. Durability

Timber: Can rot, and develop mould and insect damage. Proper care and regular maintenance is a requirement to prolong its life.

Composite: Rot, mould, and insect resistance. Generally more durable and long-lasting.

4. Aesthetics

Timber: It has natural beauty with warmth. It can be tailored to different stains and finishes.

Composite: Available in a wide variety of colours and textures. A wood product will not naturally be identical.

5. Environmental Impact

Timber: The resource is renewable when it is sustainably sourced. Deforestation is a consideration.

Composite: Many types have recycled material, making it attractive from an environmental perspective.

6. Installation

Timber: The raw material can easily be cut and dressed to a custom design. Installation requires only skilled labour.

Composite: Typically less complicated to install, thus making installation easier than timber. Often comes with hidden fastening systems.

7. Comfort

Timber: Cooler underfoot with a natural feel.

Composite: Retains heat from the sun, thus making it hotter underfoot during the sun.

Making the Call

Ultimately, the decision between timber and composite wood decking hinges on individual preferences and priorities. Therefore, consider these key takeaways to guide your choice:

Consider Your Lifestyle

Low Maintenance Preference: If you are a low-maintenance lover, the composite is likely a better option. For its durability and very low maintenance, it really sounds very good for busy house owners.

Natural Appearance: If in case you are in love with the appearance of natural wood, then timber decking can offer you the looks you long for. That might do good to those who can invest leisure time in maintenance.

Consider the Long Term

Long-Term Investment: A view in the long run shows composite decking to be a sound investment because it is very resilient and has low maintenance costs. In the long run, this material is more cost-effective despite its higher upfront cost.

Short-Term Cost Saving: Outdoor timber decking can be a very short-term cost-saving material for those very worried about the budget at hand. But be prepared for the expenses of continuous maintenance.

Environmental Impact

Sustainable Timber: If you choose timber, preferably make sure to be a sustainably sourced material. That would assure you an ecological deck, nevertheless sustainable forestry.

Recycled: Most of the composites used for deck boards are made of recycled materials, inferring lower environmental impact. This can be a critical selling point for clients wanting to be as green as they can be.

Safety Considerations

When deciding between timber and composite decking, safety is another critical factor to consider:

Slip Resistance: Composite decking often features built-in slip-resistant surfaces, which can be particularly important in areas prone to rain or near pools. Timber decking can be slippery when wet, and additional treatments may be required to enhance its slip resistance.

Splintering: Timber decking, especially if not well-maintained, can develop splinters over time, posing a risk of injury, particularly for families with young children or pets. Composite decking, on the other hand, is designed to be splinter-free, providing a safer surface for walking barefoot.

Fire Resistance: Some composite decking products are engineered to be more fire-resistant than natural wood, which can be a crucial consideration in areas prone to wildfires or for those looking to enhance fire safety around their homes.

Taking these safety factors into account can further aid in your decision-making process. Ensuring that your decking choice not only looks good and lasts long but also provides a safe environment for all users is essential. Whether prioritizing slip resistance, avoiding splinters, or enhancing fire safety, carefully consider how each decking material meets your specific safety needs.

Conclusion

In conclusion, it all depends on the hands of individual preferences, budget, and how much maintenance one wants to offer towards decking between timber decking and composite decking. While timber decking has a natural look customizable to one's liking, it calls for higher maintenance requirements. On the other hand, composite decking provides durability and low maintenance at a higher initiative cost. Your personal choice should ultimately align with your lifestyle, aesthetics, and long-term goals for the exterior living space.

By taking these factors into account and balancing the options, you will make a confident decision about which decking material is right for you. Whether you have chosen timber or composite decking material, both have unique benefits that could surely add to beauty and function in your outdoor area.

Also Check: 6 Reasons to Install Timber Decking in Your Backyard