Deciding on the perfect decking material for your outdoor space can be a daunting task. With a plethora of options available, it's easy to feel overwhelmed. Two of the most popular choices are composite and wood decking. Each has its own unique set of advantages and disadvantages. To help you make an informed decision, we'll break down the key differences between the two.
Composite Decking
Composite decking is a man-made product crafted from a blend of recycled wood fibres and plastic. This unique composition offers several benefits:
Low Maintenance: Composite decking is renowned for its durability and resistance to weather, rot, insects, and splintering. It requires minimal upkeep, often just a simple cleaning with soap and water.
Variety: Available in a wide range of colours, styles, and finishes, composite decking can mimic the appearance of wood while offering superior performance.
Eco-friendly: As it's made from recycled materials, composite decking is a sustainable choice.
At Bendrey Bros, we stock the Composite Prime decking range, in various colours and styles, including the Composite Prime HD Deck Dual.
However, composite decking also has some drawbacks:
Cost: Generally, composite decking is more expensive upfront compared to wood.
Heat Retention: It can become hotter to the touch in direct sunlight compared to wood.
Artificial Look: While many composite options closely resemble wood, some people prefer the natural look and feel of real timber.
Wood Decking
Traditional wood or timber decking offers a classic, natural aesthetic that many homeowners desire. It's a versatile material that can be stained or painted to suit any style with various types available including softwood decking and hardwood decking.
Cost-effective: Wood decking is typically more affordable upfront than composite.
Natural Beauty: Wood provides a warm, organic look and feel that many people prefer.
Customisation: It can be easily sanded, stained, or painted to match your desired appearance.
However, wood decking also comes with its challenges:
High Maintenance: It requires regular sealing, staining, or painting to protect it from the elements and prevent rot, warping, and splintering.
Susceptible to Damage: Wood is prone to damage from insects, rot, and weather.
Environmental Impact: The sourcing of wood for decking can have environmental implications.
Making Your Decision
Ultimately, the best choice for you depends on your personal preferences, budget, and lifestyle. Consider the following factors:
Appearance: Do you prefer the natural look of wood or the modern aesthetic of composite?
Maintenance: How much time and effort are you willing to invest in upkeep? Take a look at our decking maintenance guide for tips to keep your composite or timber decking looking great for years to come.
Budget: What is your budget for the decking project?
Climate: Consider the climate in your area. Composite decking might be a better option in harsh weather conditions.
Sustainability: If eco-friendliness is important to you, research the sustainability practices of both wood and composite manufacturers.
At Bendrey Bros, we offer a wide selection of both composite and wood decking to suit your needs and preferences. Our experienced team can help you choose the perfect decking for your outdoor space. Visit our Bristol timber yard or contact us today to discuss your project!
