Timber vs Composite Decking

Perth’s hot summers, coastal salt air, and bushfire-prone suburbs make choosing decking material a serious decision. Timber and composite are the main options, each with advantages and trade-offs.

This guide compares them across all factors: cost, durability, maintenance, appearance, comfort, climate performance, and long-term value.

Quick Comparison

Durability

• Timber
  
  • Jarrah and Spotted Gum can last 20 to 40 years with care.
  • Vulnerable to termites, UV, and moisture if neglected.
• Composite
  
  • Designed to resist UV, moisture, and rot.
  • Expected lifespan 25 to 50 years with minimal change in appearance.

Maintenance

• Timber
  
  • Oiling or sealing every 12 to 18 months.
  • Sanding and board replacement as needed.
  • Sweeping and cleaning to remove debris.
• Composite
  
  • Hose down and occasional soapy wash.
  • No sealing or sanding.

Aesthetics

• Timber
  
  • Unique grain and natural warmth.
  • Can be stained or oiled.
  • Ages to silver-grey if untreated.
• Composite
  
  • Wide range of colours, consistent look.
  • Textured finishes mimic timber.
  • Cannot be re-sanded or re-stained.

Comfort Underfoot

• Timber: Cooler in Perth’s heat, especially lighter species like Blackbutt.
• Composite: Can heat up more in direct sun; lighter boards reduce heat.

Climate Suitability

• Coastal suburbs: Composites excel due to salt resistance; timber needs stainless fixings and regular checks.
• Bushfire-prone areas: Certain hardwoods like Blackbutt and Spotted Gum are acceptable up to BAL-29. BAL-rated composite or fibre-cement products are safer.
• Inner suburbs / new builds: Composites are preferred for low maintenance.

Sustainability

• Timber: Choose certified FSC/PEFC hardwoods.
• Composite: Many brands use recycled plastics and reclaimed fibres.

Warranties

• Timber: Minimal or no manufacturer warranty.
• Composite: 20 to 50 year warranties are common.

Repair and Restoration

• Timber: Sand and reseal to restore look. Individual boards can be replaced.
• Composite: Damaged boards can be swapped, but colour must match. Cannot be sanded or refinished.

Recommendations

• Choose Timber if:
  • You want natural beauty and character.
  • You don’t mind regular oiling.
  • Your home has heritage or traditional styling.
• Choose Composite if:
  • You want low maintenance.
  • You live near the coast or in high UV zones.
  • You want warranties and consistent modern finishes.

Conclusion

Timber decking offers unmatched natural warmth and suits traditional Perth homes. Composite decking delivers durability, low maintenance, and strong warranties, making it ideal for coastal suburbs and modern builds.

For most homeowners, composite provides the best long-term value. For those prioritising character and natural aesthetics, premium hardwoods like Jarrah or Spotted Gum remain a strong choice for decking in Perth.

Mike Tuhaka

Mike Tuhaka runs Perth Landscape Guys. He and his team design and build outdoor spaces right across Perth, from Currambine down to Mandurah, including paving, decking, retaining walls, artificial grass, lawn and reticulation. They are preferred installers for Freo Stone, Eco Stone and Remastone, and have worked on commercial projects for Murdoch University and Parsons Group. What customers mention most is Mike’s honest advice and the regular updates from the first plan to the final clean up.