Which is Better- Composite Or Timber Decking?

by William Jones manager

When it comes to selecting the right decking material, homeowners have no shortages of options in the market. And this is not just for timber decking, but for composite materials too.

One common question on everyone’s lips is - Which is a better option - timber or composite decking?

Some decades ago, the absence of composite materials would have made timber decking the more popular option. But in today’s time, homeowners get more options for their decking needs, and both of them come with individual perks of their own.

So,there is no black or white solution to this situation. However, what this post will do is point out some crucial information to help owners make the right call.

Timber Vs. Composite Decks- The Better Option!

Timber is a natural product and comes with wonderful aesthetic appeal (like natural grains and vivid colour shades) especially when the deck is maintained properly.

Contrarily, composite decks are designed to mimic the natural shade and grains of timber decks. They are also resistant to insect infestation and rot.

Timber, as everyone knows is a renewable resource obtained from forests and plantations. As trees take in carbon dioxide from its surrounding, it continues to stay trapped inside the wood even when harvested and turned into timber decking materials not only in Brisbane but elsewhere too.

Furthermore, they tend to be more energy efficient than composite materials during the manufacturing process. Simply put, they are a more environment-friendly option to composite decking materials.

Contrarily, composite decks are prepared with the combination of plastic and timber fibres obtained from waste products- Example Sawdust! However, relevant sources also reveal that it too proves to be environmental-friendly for a couple of reasons.

Firstly, it reduces the demand for timber products, hence decreasing the quantity of timber harvested.

And secondly, composite products usually use up 95% of recycled plastic and wood materials, hence lessening environmental waste.

Top-quality timber decks in Brisbane are less likely to sustain scratches and marks, is strong and doesn’t require any oiling for its appearance. So it can be established that timber decks have more strength in comparison to composite decks.

Composite decks need more support like placing joists closer to each other for preventing breakages and sagging. And all this could significantly increase the project cost.

Well laid down decks from prominent deck builder in Brisbane will make it last a lifetime. They are easily sanded, and if there’s a build up of fungus or rot, then rather than re-laying the whole deck, that specific area can be replaced.

On the flip side, concrete decks can last a good 20-30 years and need very little maintenance. In terms of non-timber decking materials, this is one of the best decking materials around. But, its plastic composition makes it more susceptible to scratches and other superficial damages.

Final Words...

Ultimately the choice of the material will depend on one’s personal choice and preference. Still as a word of recommendation; if one is looking for a long-term decking solution, then it is best to opt for timber decks.

So, convey this request to a licensed and reputed decking professional who has a good customer pleasing record. Also see if they use a decking calculator to know about the pricing, the use of specific wood/composite or other materials like PVC flooring. It will present one a better chance to get their project done quickly and effectively.

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