When it comes to improving your outdoor space, decking is a popular choice that provides an attractive and functional area whether you want to relax or entertain in your garden. However, selecting the right type of decking material for your needs can be a task in itself. The two most common options are timber and composite decking. In this blog, Timber vs Composite Decking: Choosing the Perfect Option for Your Garden, we’ll explore the characteristics and benefits of both to help you make an informed decision. Whether your choice is based on aesthetics or durability or both, we’ll guide you through the features of both materials so you can be sure that your new decking will suit your needs.
Timber Decking
Timber decking has long been a traditional choice for garden projects. Here are some key things to consider:
- Looks: Timber decking provides a warm, rustic appeal that blends well with outdoor surroundings. It offers a natural beauty, with a choice of wood species to choose from.
- Cost and Availability: Timber decking can vary in price depending on the type of wood chosen. Softwoods such as pine are generally more affordable, while hardwoods like teak or oak are at the pricier end of the scale. Availability may also vary depending on the region the timber is from.
- Maintenance: Timber decking requires regular maintenance to keep it looking great for longer. It needs staining or sealing periodically to protect it against the elements, UV damage and moisture. It can also be prone to splintering, rotting, and warping over time, requiring repairs or replacement.
- Environmental impact: The sustainability of timber decking depends on the source. Always look for certifications like FSC (Forest Stewardship Council) or PEFC (Programme for the Endorsement of Forest Certification) that ensure responsible forestry practices and the use of renewable resources.
Composite Decking
A modern alternative to timber decking, composite decking offers durability and much less in terms of maintenance. Let’s look at the benefits in more detail:
- Durability: Composite decking is engineered to withstand the elements. This makes it highly resistant to rot, fading, and warping. Typically composed of a mixture of wood fibres, recycled plastic, and bonding agents, it has excellent structural integrity.
- Low maintenance: The main advantage of composite decking is its minimal requirement for maintenance. Unlike timber, composite decking doesn’t need any staining, sealing or painting. All it needs is an occasional clean with soap and water and it’ll look great for years!
- Variety: Composite decking comes in a wide range of colours, textures, and finishes so there’s something for everyone and every garden. Whether you prefer a natural wood-like appearance or a contemporary style, composite decking offers many different design options.
- Longevity and warranty: Composite decking is well known for its longevity. It often comes with an extensive warranty to cover against fading, staining, and structural defects. However, it’s important to choose a reputable brand with a reliable warranty to be sure of the quality and aftercare support from the manufacturer.
Timber vs Composite Decking: Choosing the Perfect Option for Your Garden
When deciding between timber and composite decking, consider the following.
- Design preference
Do you value the natural beauty and warmth of wood? Then timber decking is likely the ideal choice for you. If you prefer a more modern look, then composite decking is maybe a better choice for you, with so many design options available.
- Maintenance requirements
Think about how much time you have and whether you’d prefer to be cleaning and repairing your decking in the Summer or sitting out and enjoying it instead. If low maintenance is your thing, then composite decking is ideal for you. Minimal upkeep and no painting or staining.
- Budget
Consider your budget and the longer-term costs that might need to be met. While timber decking is cheaper to install, the costs of maintenance and potential repairs over time need to be a deciding factor. Composite decking may have a higher upfront cost but its low maintenance nature will likely result in savings over its lifespan.
- Environmental impact
If sustainability is important to you, a bit of research is needed to find out the source and manufacturing process of whichever decking you choose. Opt for timber from responsibly managed forests or choose composite made from recycled materials. Timber is a renewable resource and some composite is made entirely from recycled materials making it an eco-friendly option.
Will I need a balustrade?
In addition to your decking, you may require a balustrade of some sort for safety. Nobody wants to end up falling over the edge of the decking. There is a good range of options available here too and, aside from safety, these can also finish a deck off nicely. Here are a few popular options:
- Timber balustrade: this will complement any timber deck beautifully. They can be made to measure and come in various styles, from traditional spindles to a post and rail design.
- Glass balustrade: creates a stunning, modern appearance, giving you an unobstructed view of your garden. They can make your decking feel more open and spacious.
- Metal balustrade: durable and low maintenance. Usually stainless steel or aluminium. A great choice with many options from wire cable to horizontal bars.
- Composite balustrade: great if you want a seamless look to finish off your composite decking. Made from the same materials as the decking so you can achieve a good colour and texture match.
- Decking rope balustrade: For a unique and nautical look, decking ropes are usually secured between posts, creating a sturdy and decorative barrier. They can be combined with other materials for a different look, such as metal posts.
Let Kettlewell Groundworks install your timber or composite decking.
When it comes to choosing the perfect decking material for your garden, weighing up the pros and cons of timber and composite decking can be difficult. Kettlewell Groundworks are experienced installers of both materials and can visit with samples so you can see and feel them right there in your garden. When deciding on timber or composite decking, there are many factors to consider and we’ll help and offer guidance so you are left with an amazing outdoor space to enjoy for years to come. We’ll even leave you with our best aftercare tips!
If you’d like a quote for professionally installed timber and composite decking, you can book online at www.kettlewellgroundworks.co.uk/contactus
Any questions? Please drop us an email or give us a call on 01274 981995. If you’d like to check out what our many happy clients had to say, hop over and read our Google reviews!
