Wood vs Composite Decking in Modern Garden Design
When considering decking within a garden design project there is now the consideration to make between two different materials – the traditional choice of timber or the newer composite option.
There are differences between the options which I will explore below and ultimately the decision will rest around the importance placed on aesthetics, ease of maintenance, durability and sustainability.
What is the Difference Between Composite and Wood Decking?
Firstly, what is composite decking. It is constructed from a blend of recycled plastics and wood fibres which make it very durable, resistant to rot and warping and offering low maintenance. Whereas traditional wood decking is crafted from a variety of natural timbers that will require regular staining and often the use of chemical treatments to make it more durable.
Therefore, in terms of durability and longevity natural wood decking could be impacted more by the effects of weather and time and structural integrity if maintenance is not upheld. The speed of this will very much come down to the quality of timber used, ensuring it is only heartwood of timber, and whether it has been chemically treated with a product such as Tanalith. For example, a Douglas Fir treated should give you in excess of 20 years longevity when in contact with the ground. In fact timbers such as Teak will provide in excess of 25 years – but are much more expensive. However, if a cheaper timber is specified they will definitely not compete with the extended warranties offered by composite decking.
It is in maintenance requirements that the differences are huge. Wood decking demands significant upkeep, with periodic staining and regular cleaning needed to withstand weather conditions. Composite decking by comparison requires no staining or sealing whilst cleaning with soap and water is sufficient. Therefore, winning out in the saving of time and also money on products.
In terms of value for money wood may seem the initial cheaper option because of the initial costs. However, when you factor maintenance and likely shorter life span a high-quality composite will often come out the lower investment.
With regards to the environmental impact, Composite decking stands out as the better option. Using recycled materials reduces land fill and therefore waste, contributing to a lower carbon footprint, and reduces the impact on new, virgin material. The long life also minimizes the need for replacement decks. Not all composite decking has the same credentials, so it is important to compare. Timber decking obviously avoids plastics but does still present issues. Using FSC certified timber helps but does not fully negate the environmental impact – deforestation, habitat loss or disruption, transportation to construction sites, shorter life span of many timbers and land fill.
Bespoke Garden Designs
We are ultimately designing in decking because we want it to be functional but also add aesthetically to the garden. Wood decking has undeniable benefits with natural warmth and a classic charm. The unique nature of the graining and the colours create an inviting atmosphere that works in many settings. You can also change the look if you wish with different stain options. However, it much be maintained otherwise this beauty can quickly deteriorate with rot, discoloration and warping. Composite decking has also come on in terms of aesthetics and can mimic the graining effect of timber much more effectively and the range of ‘wood’ options and colours available is significant so you should be able to get that look you are trying to deliver. It really does come down to preferences and the amount of time you are prepared to put into maintenance of your deck when deciding. However, there is a definite choice to be made because composite decking does offer an excellent alternative to the traditional timber approach to decks. These sorts of garden design ideas can help elevate your garden to the next level while being sustainable.
Garden Solutions in Hampshire
If you have any questions on this or anything else garden design related then don’t hesitate in contacting us and also refer to our specialised garden design services for all garden design and solutions related information, as well as garden design packages. We extend our professional garden design and gardening services throughout Hampshire (Winchester) and surrounding counties including Surrey, West Sussex, Wiltshire, Dorset, Berkshire and so on.
