Decking

Composite decking vs timber decking

Compare the planning trade-offs between composite decking and timber decking without locking into a product too early.

Updated 16 June 2026DeckingHomeowners and installers

Start with use and finish

The better choice depends on how the space will be used, what finish is preferred and how much ongoing maintenance the owner expects.

Factor	Composite decking	Timber decking
Finish	Consistent manufactured profile	Natural colour and grain variation
Maintenance	Focus on cleaning and product guidance	Requires finish selection and maintenance planning
Fixings	Often uses hidden clip systems	Can use face fixing or compatible concealed systems
Ordering	Keep colour, batch and profile together	Keep length, species and finish notes together

Should I decide from photos only?

Use photos to shortlist the look, then confirm profile, fixing method and site requirements before building the order.

Can the material list change after measuring?

Yes. Treat the first list as a planning draft until layout, waste allowance and edge details are checked.