TIMBER DECKING v COMPOSITE DECKING

TIMBER DECKING

ADVANTAGES:
Many customers prefer to buy timber decking because of the natural look of the wood. It doesn't appear to be fake or require additional enhancements to make it look natural.

Wood decking provides durability and strength. It does not buckle or break when a significant amount of weight is put over it. 

There are a lot of varieties of wooden decking boards to choose from. 

If the wooden boards are of high quality, they are less prone to rotting and pests so its worth asking for advice prior to your purchase. 

Wooden decking is cheaper than composite decking, however does depend on the finish you are looking for.  

The life expectancy of wooden decking is 40 years.

DISADVANTAGES:
Wood decking boards can stain and scratch easily and are prone to splintering and cracking.

Cheaper wood decking has a life expectancy of only 10 to 15 years if properly maintained.

Wood decking requires high maintenance. In order to conserve its natural look, it needs constant repainting and restaining. 

COMPOSITE DECKING

ADVANTAGES:
Composite decking is an excellent, low maintenance alternative to timber – it’s great for families with children and animals who need a non-slip surface, or just people who don’t want the fuss of having to sand and reseal the deck as part of general maintenance.

Composite decking very strong and durable and resistant to damp, insect damage and rotting. This is due to it’s the plastic materials, which help make up the decking. You will also find that the boards will not warp or crack. The plastic components within the decking allow it to be splinter free.

Composite decking is slip resistance and waterproof making them ideal for areas where there can be lots of rain. Composite decking looks absolutely stunning in your garden, or wherever you plan to use them. They are stylish, fresh and very contemporary. They may cost a little bit more than timber boards, but in the long run you will find that because composite decking is low maintenance the aftercare costs are extremely low.

DISADVANTAGES:
Although there are many colours to choose from, the colours are permanent. It is done to avoid damage and reduce the amount of maintenance needed. The shade and colours cannot be changed by just painting it. It is unavoidable that dark coloured composite decks may fade through the years.

Severe scratches and gouges are hard or impossible to repair. You would need to buy a new decking board for the replacement. 

SUMMARY

Both timber and composite decking come with a range of options and have their own benefits and drawbacks, depending on your taste. Composite decking is less slippery than timber and comes in a range of colours and finishes. The finish is also considerably more consistent – every board of a composite deck is the same colour and texture, whereas timber decking can have colour variations due to the natural wood and knots. Composite decking will keep the same look and colour for longer without the need for ongoing maintenance, so if you would like a hassle-free deck this is the better choice. However, many customers prefer the look and feel of real wood and don’t mind the yearly rub down and re-stain or paint.

Timber decking can result in splinters if not properly maintained and can be very slippy when wet. The colours available are also more limited, but you can change the colour of your decking with stains or even paint if required.

Ultimately, the choice comes down to personal preferences. If you would like a non-slip and very child-safe deck that only requires an annual wash, composite decking is the clear winner. If you prefer a traditional look and natural feel that you will not need to replace, timber decking is probably the best option for you.

The team at IBT will be happy to help you with your queries and work out costings based on your requirements.