Timber or Composite Boards? What’s Best for a Home Deck Project?
03 April 2019Adding a new deck to your house for any reason requires a lot of thought and planning to bring about favourable results. Along with the structural features, you also have to choose between timber and composite boards for the deck’s construction. Each material offers unique characteristics and benefits. Refer to the following information in order to form an informed opinion on which one is right for your deck.
Facts about Timber Decking
• Timber is a natural material, and many types of it are ideal for decking. Merbau, cedar and pressure-treated pine are just three examples that are durable outdoors. Each type of timber has unique grain patterns that can enhance the appearance of any deck.
• Another attribute of timber is that it is a budget-friendly material for decks. The initial installation will be less expensive than a deck with composite boards.
• Any timber that is recommended as decking is resistant to rot and insect invasion with or without a protective finish. However, you can maximise its appearance and resiliency by applying a protective coating on a timber deck. You will need to redo this at least once a year to maintain the deck’s ideal condition and appearance. This maintenance adds to the cost of choosing the timber. If the wood decking starts to splinter with age, sanding also might be necessary.
Information about Composite Decking
• Composite may contain some natural wood fibres, but it also is made up of plastics and other man-made materials. It is never completely natural as timber is. If it includes recycled materials, you can consider it an eco-friendly choice for decking.
• Composite boards are weatherproof, stain-proof, low maintenance, splinter-proof and rot-proof. They never need a protective coating. Also, they come in a wide assortment of colours.
• You will pay more for composite decking than wood decking initially. Over the life of a composite deck, though, the maintenance costs are much lower than with a timber deck.
• Make a note that certain poor-quality composite decking will be slippery when wet and may mould or develop mildew. Ask about this before you decide on this type of decking material.
For professional guidance on whether timber or composite boards are best for your home deck project, consult with Prestige Construction & Design. We will analyse your specific situation and lifestyle before we make our recommendations and issue you a quote. Our company specialises in decks, home renovations, residential extensions, general construction and many services that will enhance your home. With each project or service that we perform for you, we provide a guarantee to protect you.
