Composite Decks vs Traditional Timber Decks

Once upon a time not so long ago there was very little choice for decking; wood or wood. Nowadays, there is a range of materials to suit every budget, home, and lifestyle. While timber is still the most popular decking material, composite is becoming increasingly popular. Asnu Group of Trades work with all materials and can help you choose the best for your situation and budget.

Composite decking is a man-made material that imitates the look of timber. It is made from a combination of recycled wood and plastic. The wood particles consist of a variation of sawdust, wood chips or fibers. The plastic can be either virgin or recycled plastic. Thus it is sometimes viewed as a more environmentally friendly choice.

Timber Decking is available in a wide range of timbers. These vary in durability, colour, and density. Regardless of the timber you choose, you can alter the appearance with staining or painting once it has been constructed. The beauty of working with Asnu is that we can provide professional painters to stain or paint your deck as soon as it is completed.

Composite Decking

Pro’s

• Maintenance – Once installed, composite decking requires very little maintenance. Washing it with soapy water will keep it in optimum condition.
• Safe – Slip-resistant and splinter-free which is a big advantage for families with small children and pets. Composite is also barefoot friendly as it doesn’t require nails.
• Durable– Composite won’t rot, warp, splinter or fade which means it lasts longer.
• Termite and Insect Resistant – Termites, and insects are not attracted to composite decking.
• Weather Resistant – Less likely to fade in harsh sunlight or be damaged by excess wind and rain. Excellent choice around wet areas such as pools or spas.

Con’s

• Appearance – Composite is not as aesthetic or natural looking as timber
• Cost – Initial cost is more than timber. However, the low cost of maintenance evens out monetary outlay in the end.

Timber Decking

Pro’s

• Aesthetic – Timber offers an authentic natural look that can be modified to blend in with surroundings.
• Versatile – Timber is flexible to work with and can be cut or sanded to shape. If you decide down the track to change the look it can be stripped, re-stained or painted for a fresh new look.
• Variety – There is a wide choice of timbers that offer their own unique set of advantages or disadvantages, including fire-resistance level, durability, colour, and cost.
• Durable – If maintained properly timber is very resilient and long-lasting. Plus, it is not easily scratched or marked.
• Installation – Timber is easy to work with. Therefore it is easier to install.
• Cost – Initial outlay for timber is less than composite. Cost does vary depending on the timber used.

Con’s

Maintenance – It is recommended that you restain or paint your deck to keep it safe and looking its best. Neglect will lead to rotten or warped timber which looks unattractive and can be dangerous.

Weathering – Timber is prone to rot, warp or splinter even when well-maintained.

In the end, it comes down to your personal taste, budget, and circumstance. Both composite or timber will result in an attractive, safe, durable and functional deck.

Asnu group of Trades Pty Ltd can efficiently construct either a composite or timber deck for you!

We can design, construct, stain or paint your new outdoor area.  We have a wealth of experience in building decks around Sydney and can help you choose the best material for your situation.

As we are a ‘Group of Trades’ we have in-house carpenters, builders, and painters who can work with you to construct a deck that will bring years of stylish, comfortable, outside living for you and your family to enjoy. So, if you’re thinking about a new deck, contact us today for a free no-obligation quote.