What is Composite Decking?

In the past, traditional decking has always been constructed using plain timber boards. But advances in decking technology mean we now have access to composite timbers.

Here we look at what composite timber decking is and why it’s becoming a popular choice for builders and DIY homeowners.

Composite timber decking is an environmentally friendly alternative to natural wood. It’s made from recycled wood fibre and plastics, which combine to form a strong, lightweight material that looks like natural timber but is much easier to work with.

Requiring virtually no maintenance, composite decking gives you more time to enjoy your deck and less time to look after it.

A good example of composite timber is KEKSIÄ’s Coastal Decking, which requires no oiling or painting, is resistant to stains, mould, UV, and pests, and is fully capped to protect against moisture.

Why is composite timber better than traditional timber?

The reason why more people are turning to composite timber is that it has 8 distinct advantages over natural timber.

Low maintenance

It won’t rot, warp, crack or fade, so it doesn’t need restaining, repainting, or resealing, And it cleans up easily with an occasional wash using soap and water.

Environmentally friendly

It makes good use of timber and plastic waste, so its eco-footprint is lighter than timber decking, which is made from harvested trees.

Highly durable

It stands up to all kinds of weather and is resistant to termites, mould, saltwater and even pool chlorine.

Doesn't splinter

This makes it better for decking, as it’s safe for bare feet and pets and even comes with anti-slip properties.

Moisture resistant

Because the ends can be fully capped, it keeps out moisture, which leads to rot in natural timber boards.

As nice as wood

It can be made to mimic any type, colour or texture of natural timber.

More cost-effective

While it costs more to buy than natural timber, it pays for itself many times over with the savings made in maintenance and repair costs.

More flexible for design

This is because it’s molded, it doesn’t have to conform to standard plank shapes, and can theoretically take any form desired.

Is a composite timber deck easy to install?  

As far as builders and tradies are concerned, another reason composite timber is favoured for decking is that it has a longer lifetime value than natural timber planks.

Natural timber boards can be prone to shrinkage and expansion, which can force the nails or screws upwards, spoiling the aesthetic and creating a tripping hazard.   

Composite timber decking on the other hand lasts longer and is just as easy to install. The boards are lighter than natural timber and easier to drill holes for screwing or nailing. The latest composite boards also come with grooves or channels on the side, so each board fits snugly with the next.

Installation is also much easier, as grooved composite boards use a hidden fastening system to hold them down, rather than screws or nails. This not only speeds up installation but gives the deck a much smoother, cleaner look as well.

Get in touch with KEKSIÄ for composite timber

The team at KEKSIÄ is here to help. We have the materials you need to build your new deck and the expert advice to make sure your project is a total success.

So give our team a call to discuss your needs or fill in our enquiry form and we’ll provide you with our recommendations for your decking project.