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Timber vs Composite

Timber Decking vs Composite Decking

15 September 2016

When you wanted to build some decking in the old days, all you had to do was pick a type of timber. Then you’d get your tools, or contact your contractor, and away you’d go. These days it’s a bit more complicated, but that’s really a great thing.

The advent of things like composite decking is giving us more and more design options for our projects.

What is Composite Decking?

Composite decking material is made using a composite of wood, and plastic. The wood can be anything from sawdust to chips and the plastic is either new or recycled plastic.

What’s the Difference Compared to Timber?

There are many differences between these two types of decking materials. Let’s take a closer look at exactly what those differences are:

Natural vs. Not

Timber decking is an all-natural product. When it’s properly looked after, a good quality timber deck is going to last as long as your home will. Timber also has that amazing, natural look that composite materials just can’t quite match. Also, timber can get stained, painted and treated to suit your specific needs. You also have a choice of the species of timber, because each has different qualities and appearance.

Composite timber can come manufactured to closely resemble natural tones and finishes, but if you take a closer look it’s not quite the same. While it does come ready to use and doesn’t need any further treatment or maintenance, it just looks cheaper.

What about the Environment?

When it comes to environmentally conscious decisions, the weigh up between composite and timber decking is a no-brainer.

Composite decking comes made from a combination of plastic and timber fibres. If the plastic used is virgin, or newly manufactured, it has quite a toll on the environment. Plastic takes quite a bit of energy to produce too, and unless recycled plastic gets used, it has a higher carbon footprint than timber.

On the other side of the equation, natural timber decking is a sustainable resource, especially if you choose a company that uses forest-friendly materials. As well as being a renewable resource, the way timber gets harvested and processed is also highly energy efficient. If you use timber for your decking, you’re reducing your carbon footprint.

What about Cost?

Those undertaking DIY projects are often concerned about the bottom dollar, and fair enough. After all, part of the reason we become DIYers is to save some money on labour.

The price for these two products is generally the same, although if you want really good quality hardwood, you’re going to be spending a bit extra. Cheaper materials don’t necessarily mean better materials, so make sure you weigh up other factors too.

Here at Sunstate Timbers, we recommend spending extra money for a quality material. That way, you’re guaranteed products that are durable and reliable.

Ready to Install Some Decking?

Come and have chat with the friendly team at Sunstate Timbers in Brisbane. We stock decking timber at good prices, can manufacture custom handrails and also build engineered timber beams. For all your decking, and construction needs, give us a call for a quote.

Ready to Install Some Decking?

Sunstate Timbers, Deception Bay, have provided customers with quality wood supplies for customers across Brisbane. If you’re looking to buy timber, take a look at our splendid range at our lumber yard. We stock decking timber at good prices, can manufacture custom handrails and also build engineered timber beams.

For all your decking, and construction needs, contact the Sunstate Timbers team on (07) 3171 8430 or via our online form for quality advice.