Choosing the right decking material isn’t just about price
If you’re planning a new deck for your Sunshine Coast home, one of the first decisions you’ll face is material: timber or composite? And while cost is a factor, the better question is: which one actually suits the way you live?
Let’s walk through the key differences, and how to choose the right fit for your space, habits, and goals.
Quick comparison: Timber vs Composite
| Feature | Timber | Composite |
|---|---|---|
| Look | Natural grain and variation | Consistent timber-look finishes |
| Maintenance | Needs regular oiling and inspection | Occasional cleaning only |
| Lifespan | 10–20+ years with upkeep | 25–30+ years, low-fuss |
| Cost | Lower upfront cost | Higher initial investment |
| Best for | Traditional homes, natural styling | Low-maintenance living, rentals, busy homes |
When timber decking is the better choice
We love timber. It’s warm, timeless, and has a natural character that’s hard to beat. It can also be sanded back and refreshed when needed, making it a great option if you’re hands-on and happy to do (or outsource) regular maintenance.
Timber decking is a strong fit for:
- Homeowners who prefer a natural look and feel
- Spaces that are shaded or protected from harsh sun
- Situations where matching existing hardwood is a priority
- People willing to re-oil or reseal every 12–18 months
Popular choices on the Sunshine Coast include Spotted Gum, Blackbutt, Merbau, and Ironbark.
Why composite decking might make more sense
Composite decking has come a long way in recent years. Brands like Trex, Millboard, ModWood and NewTechWood now offer highly realistic timber-look boards in a range of tones, grains, and textures.
More importantly, they perform brilliantly in our climate. Composite decking is a smart match for:
- Households that don’t want ongoing upkeep
- Coastal homes exposed to salt and UV
- Rental or holiday properties
- Poolside or full-sun zones
It won’t fade, splinter, rot, or need refinishing. That means more time enjoying your deck and less time maintaining it.
A word on cost
Composite decking is usually more expensive upfront — but it almost always costs less over the long run, once you factor in oils, cleaning, labour, and rework.
If your budget is tight now but you’re willing to maintain timber yourself, timber might still be the right choice. But if you value a low-hassle lifestyle and don’t want to keep a deck maintenance calendar, composite will pay off.
Still not sure what’s right for you?
We’re here to help. We’ve designed and installed decks all across the Sunshine Coast using both materials, and we’ll walk you through the pros and cons based on your site, your usage, and your goals.
FAQs
Which is hotter underfoot, timber or composite?
Dark composite boards can heat up in full sun. We’ll help you choose a colour and brand that suits your site.
Do I need to re-oil composite decking?
No. Just an occasional clean is usually enough.
Can you mix timber and composite in one design?
Sometimes. We can create contrast zones or use timber accents with composite main areas.
Is composite decking slippery when wet?
Most brands have anti-slip textures. It’s often safer than aged timber if properly installed.
Will composite look fake?
Not anymore. Premium brands like Millboard are moulded from real oak and look very realistic.