The fight between composite and timber decking materials has never stopped and it has had mixed results. Although timber decking was gaining more popularity a while ago, composite decking materials have developed greatly in regards to structure, safety, and durability. All these types of decking are available at www.BristolDeckingSolutions.co.uk and choosing between them depends on your budget and preference.

Let’s compare both of them and you can decide which suits your needs. You should remember that both composite decking and timber decking are available in high and low qualities. Most people know that composite decking requires little maintenance that is why it is costly.

1. Decking Maintenance and Life Spans

If you want the timber decking to last long, you have to maintain it properly. Timber sections can be replaced, moreover, timber can easily be sanded down. Therefore, in case of a fungus or rot attack, you only to treat a specific area instead of changing your entire deck. But, you have to take care of your timber decking just like the other furniture at home to ensure it lasts longer.

Composite decking may last over 30 years, but it needs a small amount of maintenance. Most of the composite decking only requires regular cleaning and you do not have to stain or treat it to avoid damage from moisture. Moreover, because of the compounds of polymer in the boards, you can benefit from advantages like Radiation and water resistance. Resilience to mechanical force, resistance to most cleaning chemicals, resistance to temperatures between-60 and +80 degrees Celsius and resistance to biological threats (insects, rodents and bacteria.)

2. Durability

Composite decking is long lasting. Its composite structure offers the hard-wearing properties of glass and plastic, as well as being resistant to algae and mold. Timber decking is also strong enough and can last long because it is a structural material.

3. The Impact on the Environment

Timber is friendly to the environment as it is only made of wood. Composite decking is created from mixing wood and plastic fibers. These wood fibers are recycled and when you choose the right supplier you might get decking made using recycled plastic. But, generally, plastics have an environmental impact because of the process of production and by-products.

4. Expenses

The budget you require for timber projects differs from softwood to hardwood. Select the appropriate softwood timber based on affordability, installation technique, and color. You do not have to pre-drill. Hardwood decking is costly since it is very durable and it costs less to maintain it Hardwood decking requires pre-drilling but there are other installation ways.

Composite decking is more pocket-friendly than timber decking since it does not require staining, jet-washing or stripping like timber decking.

Finally, the choice of material trickles down to your preference. If you want the child-safe and non-slip deck which only needs routine washing, then you should choose composite decking. But if you want a natural feel and traditional appearance which you do not require to replace, then timber decking is your best alternative. Bristol Decking solutions have various types of hardwood, softwood plus composite decking which suit your taste. Remember that both types of decking work well to suit your needs.