Why Your Pool Deck Material Matters
A pool deck is one of the hardest-working parts of any outdoor space. It’s constantly exposed to sun, salt, water and foot traffic. You want it to look great but you have to be sure you choose the right material.
Here on the Sunshine Coast, we enjoy a mostly wonderful warm, and humid climate… with coastal breezes. All of these things together can make or break a deck, depending on what it’s made from.
H3: A good pool deck should be:
- Slip-resistant and safe when wet
- Low-maintenance and keep its good looks over time
- Resistant to UV, salt, and moisture
- Comfortable underfoot on hot summer days
Let’s look at how timber and composite materials stack up in these conditions.
Timber Pool Decking: Natural Beauty with Ongoing Care
Timber is timeless. It brings warmth, texture, and that unmistakable Australian character. It almost feels unAustralian to choose anything but a hardy Aussie timber. Popular choices for pool decks include Spotted Gum, Merbau, and Blackbutt which are hardwoods known for durability and grain depth.
Benefits of Timber Pool Decking
If you love timber, then no doubt you love it for a few important reasons:
- Natural look and feel: Perfect for blending with gardens or tropical landscaping.
- Cool underfoot: Hardwood decks tend to stay cooler than darker composites (there are exceptions).
- Customisable: Easy to shape, stain, or re-finish over time.
What to Watch For
But it’s not all roses with timber decks. They require regular oiling or sealing to protect against moisture and UV damage. If you’re not dedicated to looking after your timber deck with regular maintenance (cleaning, nourishment, oiling or varnishing), your deck can fade, split, or warp. This is especially true for timber near saltwater pools or along the coast.
If you don’t mind a bit of maintenance (and love the natural look), timber is still a brilliant choice.
Pro tip: A professional oiling of your timber deck every 12–18 months can double your deck’s lifespan.
Composite Pool Decking: Low Maintenance. High Performance.
Composite decking has fast become the go-to option for many Sunshine Coast homeowners. If you’re looking to install or replace a deck for your garden, you have probably thought about whether you’d be the kind of person who would choose a natural or manmade deck material. Composites can be made from recycled wood fibres and polymers (it’s always brand-dependent and you will want to do some research). Composite decking materials are built to handle coastal conditions with minimal fuss.
Benefits of Composite Decking
Like I often tell our customers, if you value outdoor living time over hours of board replacement and timber maintenance, then maybe a composite is for you. Here are some great reasons to consider:
- Virtually maintenance-free: No sanding, staining, or oiling.
- Slip-resistant and splinter-free: Ideal for families and pool zones.
- Fade and stain-resistant: Keeps its colour longer under harsh UV exposure.
- Long lifespan: Often backed by 20–30-year warranties.
Things to Consider
- Cost: Composite boards cost more upfront, but you will save on maintenance.
- Heat: Darker boards can get warmer under full sun (lighter shades stay cooler).
- Texture: Some prefer the organic feel of real timber over composites.
- What you value most: A low-budget board versus a high-budget board will offer you different design opportunities. Take a look at the difference between EkoDeck, Trex, Fiberon and Millboard and you’ll see what I mean. Only when you see what each has to offer can you make a call on what you’re prepared to settle for.
For most Sunshine Coast homes, composite decking wins for longevity, safety and ease of care… especially in pool surrounds.
Comparing Timber and Composite Pool Decks
| Feature | Timber Decking | Composite Decking |
| Maintenance | Needs oiling/sealing every 12–18 months | Virtually none |
| Slip Resistance | Depends on finish | Consistent slip rating |
| Heat Retention | Cooler in natural tones | Can warm up in dark shades |
| Lifespan | 10–25 years (with care) | 25+ years |
| Cost | $600–$850 per m² (installed) | $750–$1,200 per m² (installed) |
| Look & Feel | Natural warmth, unique grain | Uniform, modern aesthetic |
👉 Still can’t decide? Choose based on your lifestyle, not just your budget.
If you love the idea of a natural surface you can refinish and customise, go timber.
If you want a zero-fuss, high-end finish that lasts for decades, then composite is your best friend.
What’s Best for Sunshine Coast Weather
- Coastal homes: Composite performs better in the salt air and humidity of the Sunshine Coast.
- Inland or shaded pools: Timber adds warmth and blends beautifully with gardens.
- High-traffic decks: Composite resists dents and watermarks better.
Ultimately, the best pool decking material is the one that suits your maintenance style, budget, and design goals.
FAQs About Pool Decking Materials
What’s the most durable material for pool decking?
Composite decking typically lasts the longest. It can last 25 years or more and resists fading, rot, and water damage. High-quality brands like ModWood, Trex, and Millboard are made for coastal climates.
Is timber still a good choice for pool surrounds?
Yes. Hardwood timber like Spotted Gum or Merbau performs well when properly sealed and maintained. It’s considerably more work than composite, but its natural warmth and feel are unmatched.
Do I need council approval for a pool deck?
In most cases, yes. If your deck is elevated, roofed, or within a few metres of your pool edge, you’re probably going to need building approval. It’s worth checking before construction starts. It does save time, money, and insurance issues later. (See our Deck Approvals Guide for full details.)
Thinking About a New Pool Deck?
Whether you’re going classic timber or modern composite, you really want to make sure it’s built to handle Sunshine Coast conditions.
You’ll want a licensed, local builder who understands approvals, drainage, and structural safety: someone who can give you honest advice about what works best in our climate (such as Sunshine Coast Decking).
👉 Ready to plan your new pool deck? Book Your Free Consultation or call us on 0485 838 101