When it comes to outdoor living spaces, a well-built and stunning deck truly adds value and beauty to any home. With numerous choices available today, making the right decision for your decking materials can be a daunting task. Two common options for decks are traditional timber and modern composite decking - but which one is right for your home? East Coast Fencing is here to address this question and guide you towards an informed decision.

The Fundamentals

Wooden Decking: Traditional wooden decking is typically made from hardwood species like oak, cedar, or redwood, or pressure-treated softwoods such as pine. These materials offer a natural aesthetic and have been in use for centuries.

Composite Decking: This modern choice is made from a combination of wood fibres, recycled plastics, and bonding agents. Composite decking replicates the look of natural wood, while simultaneously offering the benefits of low maintenance, durability, and resilience.

Key Considerations

Appearance and Aesthetics

Natural wooden decking provides a warm, rustic appeal that many people adore. Over time, these planks can be stained and refinished to match the owner's preferences or to renew their appearance after weathering.

Composite decking has undoubtedly come a long way since its inception and now closely resembles the warmth and character of real wood. Although it may not be an exact replica, many homeowners appreciate the aesthetics of composite materials.

Durability and Longevity

Wooden decking, even when properly treated and maintained, is susceptible to weathering and can eventually rot, warp, and crack. The lifespan of a wooden deck varies, but it usually falls between 15-20 years.

Composite decking is more resistant to decay, fungal growth, and insect damage, making it highly durable. It won't warp or crack as a result of temperature fluctuations. A major selling point is its longer lifespan, which ranges from 25 to 30 years. Thus, it may be a worthwhile investment in the long run.

Maintenance

While wooden decking is a classic choice, it demands regular maintenance, such as yearly sealing or staining, as well as the occasional replacement of worn-out boards.

Composite decking, on the other hand, is low-maintenance, requiring only the occasional clean with soap and water. The composite materials are designed to resist fading, staining, and scratching, making them hassle-free for many homeowners.

Cost

Initially, the upfront cost of wooden decking is typically lower than composite decking. However, due to the regular maintenance requirements like staining, sealing, and possible board replacements, wooden decking can become more expensive in the long run.

Composite decking generally has a higher initial cost, but its low-maintenance nature and extended lifespan can make it more cost-effective over time.

Environmental Impact

Wooden decking harvested from responsibly managed forests can be an environmentally friendly option. However, you must be aware of the source, as some timber can be sourced from illegal logging practices or deforestation.

Composite decking is eco-friendly as it utilises recycled materials instead of solely relying on new wood, consequently reducing the demand for logged timber.

Conclusion

In summary, both wooden and composite decking have their own set of advantages and drawbacks. Wooden decking offers a classic look, while composite decking provides durability, low maintenance, and eco-friendliness. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preferences, budget, and willingness to maintain your deck over time.