Decking Showdown: Wooden vs Composite Decking

Over the past decade we’ve installed thousands of m2 of wooden and composite decking across Hampshire. Through time the following questions have piqued our clients interest. They include:

How long does wooden decking last?

Which is more expensive – Wooden or composite decking?

Does composite decking require less maintenance than wood?

We’ll strive to answer those questions in this brief post. In the meantime, if you’d like a quote for decking in Basingstoke, Winchester, Andover, Southampton & Portsmouth, contact our friendly team today.

Wood

Wooden decking typically lasts for up to 15 years. Although some species compete with composite brands with a shelf life of over 25 years.

Traditonal British decks are sourced from hardwoods, oak and larch. As well as softwoods, pine, cedar and spruce. With respect to durability in the softwood family pressure treated pine and Canadian Red Cedar. While Yellow Balau (or Bangkirai) matches many composite options.

Composite

A good composite deck can last for over 25 or 30 years.

The durability and ease of maintenance are prime selling points. As a result, composite boards are more expensive than wood.

Since the introduction of Trex Origins to the marketplace in the mid-90’s, composite brands have sky rocketed in demand. Today there are a series of rival composite deck manufacturers while composite fencing and pergolas are also becoming mainstream.

Popular composite options include Trex, Cladco and Millboard. 2nd generation composite deck boards are capped. That is, a protective cap around the deck board prevents the absorption of moisture and adds UV resistance.

A word on subframes and deck tape. Many decking companies install subframes (The frame under your deck boards) with softwood. Today manufacturers, including NeoTimber, produce composite joists. If you do opt for a wooden frame, this can be protected using deck tape.

Both options will add years to your decks shelf life.

Of course, there are other materials on the market too including plastic and aluminium. Our decking experts at Hampshire Turf Supplies will help you navigate the pros and cons of every option to ensure you have a durable, attractive deck that suits your budget.