Adding a deck to your house is a dream for many homeowners – it not only creates a brand new outdoor area that’s great for entertaining, but also adds real value to your home.
One of the primary considerations when deciding to get a deck is the cost. And you shouldn’t just consider the initial cost but also the cost of on-going maintenance.
If you are in the market for a deck, there are really two options – timber decking or composite decking. Which one you decide to get will depend on how much you’re willing to spend, how you want it to look and how willing/able you are to maintain it.
To help you make this choice, we have laid out the pros and cons of each type of decking with a cost analysis, so you can be confident of getting a deck you will love.
Timber decking – an overview
Timber for decking comes in many species and styles that have proven over a long time to be great for decking. Depending on the type of timber used it can be the most budget-friendly option. For instance, Treated Pine decking has one of the lowest material costs of any decking type.
Timber offers a natural look – with an unparalleled warmth that can’t be achieved with plastic or metal decking options. Timber can also be stained in various colours and finished to complement an existing outdoor colour scheme.
Timber is easy to work with as it can be cut, shaped and sanded to any shape or size.
Hardwood timber decking e.g. Merbau, is less prone to warping than cheaper alternatives like Batu. A good quality timber wood can also be more resistant to rotting and insect infestation. Hardwood decking options having a potential life expectancy of 40+ years when properly maintained and looked after.
The surface colour can fade and change in the climate, so regular maintenance is necessary. This will include resealing and resurfacing throughout the life of the product – adding to the overall cost.
Types of timber decking available in Perth
- Accoya
- Batu Decking
- Blackbutt Decking
- Jarrah Decking
- Merbau Decking
- Spotted Gum Decking
- Fijian Mahogany
Composite decking – an overview
Composite Decking is a man-made wood alternate decking. Made of up to 95% recycled wood fibres and recycled plastic, the composite material has unique characteristics – making it one of the most sought-after decking materials. Composite timber is one of the most durable decking products on the market. Installation is easy – by using a hidden fixing system like  Klevaklip it makes use of grooves built into the side of the decking planks for a smooth top surface.
One of the major benefits of composite decking is the time and cost taken to maintain the deck is much lower in comparison to traditional timber decking. Other issues that plague timber decking like splinters, termites and warping are not a problem with the quality composite decks like TimberTech – which is virtually maintenance free, requiring just a semi-annual cleaning with a hose and general household cleaner.Â
Depending on the type of composite decking you choose you can select from a number of colours and finishes. Modwood decking is one of the most popular composite decking options due the fact it is made in Australia and they have just released their capped product called Modwood Xtreme guard which comes with an astounding 25 year fade and stain warranty.Â
While the initial cost of composite decking can be more expensive than timber, the long-term costs will even out over time due to composite’s reduced maintenance fees. A popular option for those with one eye on the price is Trex Contour decking which has all the durability benefits of composite decking but at an affordable price.Â
Types of composite decking available in PerthÂ
- Azek
- Â Eva-Last
- Â Hardideck
- Modwood
- TimberTech
- TrexÂ
Timber vs Composite Decking – which option is best for you?
When deciding between a traditional timber or composite deck you must consider a number of factors.
Do you want a lower initial cost? Then timber is the choice for you. But remember that cost increases over time as timber decks need to be treated with expensive solutions to keep them looking as good as when you got it.
A composite deck needs a lot less maintenance – in both time and cost, and this could be important to you over the long term.
The range of colours and finishes available with composite decking is also incredibly varied – giving you a slew of options for how your outdoor area can end up looking!
Are you ready to get your dream deck?
Contact us today and speak to one of our Outdoor Lifestyle Enthusiasts. We can answer any questions you might have and get you on the path to a deck you love!
