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composite deck on a garden

5 of the Best Decking Material Options

The best decking material is a tough subject and can be down to personal choice. However, choosing the right decking material can make or break your outdoor space. But before you start thinking about what would look good in your garden, you need to consider the different types of decking on offer and understand their properties. 

Ideally, you want a type of decking that can handle the elements, lasts for years, and maybe even makes your neighbours a little jealous. With so many options out there, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed, so let’s break down the top contenders and figure out which is the best decking material for you.

Article Contents

Comparison Composite Decking Pressure-Treated
Wood
Tropical
Hardwoods
Cedar Redwood PVC
Longevity High Medium Low Medium High High
Maintenance Level Low Medium Medium High Medium Low
Durability High High High Medium High High
Weather Resistance High High Medium Medium Medium High
Eco-friendly High Low Medium Medium Medium Medium
Lifetime Value High Medium Medium Medium Medium High

 

Decking Material Options

Building a new deck or giving your old one a makeover? First things first, you need to get to know the different types of decking materials out there. Each one has its own personality, from natural charm to low-maintenance ease. Let’s take a closer look at some popular options and what makes them tick.

Composite Decking

Composite decking has become a bit of a superstar lately, and for good reason. It’s tough as nails, fade-resistant, stain-resistant, and more. Made from a mix of recycled plastic and wood fibres, it gives you the look of real wood without all the fuss. Plus, it comes in a wide variety of colours and textures, so you can create a deck that’s uniquely you. And if you’re looking for something top-notch, check out our best selling composite decking costing £23.99 per 4 metres, or order a free sample via our website.

Pros:

  • Slip resistant
  • Environmentally friendly
  • Insect and pest resistant
  • Safe for bare feet
  • Low maintenance
  • 11 colours of composite decking to choose from

Cons:

  • Boards can fade slightly in strong sun
  • Slightly more complicated to install

Pressure-Treated Wood

Pressure-treated wood, usually Southern Yellow Pine, is a wallet-friendly option that’s strong and rot-resistant. It’s been treated with preservatives to help it last, but it does need some TLC. Regular sealing and staining are a must to keep it looking its best. 

The types of wood on offer are endless, with both softwood and hardwood available. It’s a case of deciding which one would complement your garden more as both have their benefits and drawbacks. Read more about composite vs wood decking for more information.

Pros:

  • Increased durability
  • Easy to work with
  • Moisture and weather resistant
  • Cost effective
  • Eco-friendly options are available

Cons:

  • Some options aren’t environmentally-friendly
  • Warping or shrinking is common
  • Requires regular maintenance to prevent wear and tear
 Tropical Hardwoods

Tropical hardwoods like Ipe and Cumaru are the heavyweights of the decking world. This type of decking material laughs in the face of rot, insects, and decay. They’re perfect for high-traffic areas or if you live somewhere with unpredictable weather. Their rich, warm colours add a touch of luxury, but they do come with a heftier price tag.

Pros:

  • Extremely durable
  • Natural oils mean rot and pest resistance
  • Weather resistant
  • Some tropical hardwoods can last for 50+ years such as teak
  • Aesthetically pleasing

Cons:

  • More expensive than composite or regular wood
  • Difficult to work with due to density and weight
  • Can fade overtime if not maintained

Cedar

Cedar is naturally resistant to rot and insects, and it smells amazing. Its natural oils offer some protection, but you’ll still need to keep up with maintenance to keep it looking fresh. Cedar is known for its reddish hues and unique grain patterns.

Pros:

  • Aromatic, giving your garden a satisfying scent
  • Natural resistance to rot and insects
  • More affordable compared to redwood

Cons:

  • Less dense
  • Regular maintenance is required
  • Can fade over time

Redwood

Similar to cedar, redwood has a very long lifespan of up to 25 years, and with regular maintenance it can last even longer. Its natural oils offer protection against pests and rot and gives the wood a great natural odour, adding a pleasant scent to your garden.
 
Pros:
  • Fire-resistant
  • Long lifespan
  • Harder and more durable than cedar
Cons:
  • More expensive and harder to acquire
  • Regular maintenance is required
  • Harder to work with due to being heavier

PVC Decking

This type of decking material is all about low maintenance, and it’s made entirely from plastic so it won’t fade, stain, scratch, or become a bug buffet. PVC decking comes in a range of colours and textures, and all it really needs is a quick clean every now and then.

Pros:

  • Mould resistant and requires little maintenance
  • Easy to install due to being lightweight
  • Fade and stain resistant

Cons:

  • PVC decking can have an artificial feel
  • Can expand or contract
  • Can get very hot if exposed to the sun for long periods

Why not pair your composite decking with some balustrade? Read More: 7 Decking Balustrade Ideas

Factors to Consider in Choosing the Best Decking Material

decking boards

Durability

Think about how long you want your deck to last and what it’ll have to endure. Will it be a party central or a quiet retreat? Decking materials like composite decking and tropical hardwoods are built to last.

Maintenance

How much time do you want to spend on upkeep? Composite and PVC decking are pretty much set-it-and-forget-it, while wood decking needs regular cleaning, sealing, and staining. If you’ve like to learn more about composite decking maintenance, read more in our guide.

Aesthetics

The type of decking you choose can really change the vibe of your garden. Ask yourself what vibe you’re going for and choose your decking based on the answer. Maybe you love the natural look of wood or but also prefer something sleek and modern? The best decking material will always be the one that complements your home and personal style.

Cost

Let’s be real, budget matters and the cost can vary based on the type of decking you order. Compare the costs of different materials, and don’t forget to factor in long-term maintenance expenses. Explore the costs of composite decking here.

Environmental Impact

If you’re eco-conscious, look for materials with a smaller carbon footprint. Options that are made from recycled material such as composite decking are often the best as they have a very minimal impact on the environment. Here’s everything you need to know about sustainability and composite decking.

Tips for Installing Decking

Plan and Prepare

Before you start hammering away, make sure you have a solid plan and any necessary permits. Prep the ground properly – it needs to be level and stable.

Choose the Right Fasteners

Pick fasteners that work with your decking material and, most importantly, won’t rust.

Allow for Proper Drainage

Leave enough space between boards and create a slight slope so water can drain away. No one wants a swampy or mouldy deck.

Follow Manufacturer Instructions

Each material has its own quirks, so follow the manufacturer’s instructions to the letter. For more information, read our full decking installation guide to learn more.

Decking Maintenance Tips for Longevity

Regular Cleaning

Sweep away any leaves and debris regularly, and give your deck a good scrub every now and then with a mild cleaner and water. Skip the harsh chemicals and use a product that is environmentally-friendly such as our composite decking cleaner.

Inspect and Repair

Keep an eye out for any signs of wear and tear, like loose boards or cracks. Fix them as soon as possible to prevent bigger problems down the road.

Sealing and Staining

If you go with wood decking, sealing and staining are your best friends. They’ll protect the wood from the elements and keep it looking fresh.

Address Water Drainage

Make sure water isn’t pooling on your deck. If it is, adjust the slope or add drainage solutions to prevent damage.

Protective Measures

Consider using furniture pads to prevent scratches, and avoid dragging heavy objects across the deck.

Final Thoughts

All in all, choosing the right decking material is a big decision, especially when there are so many different types of decking on the market. But this decision doesn’t have to be a stressful one. Simply weigh up your options, consider your priorities, and don’t be afraid to ask for help. With a little planning, you’ll be enjoying your beautiful deck in no time.

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