Custom Decking: Hardwood vs Composite – Which One Suits Your Lifestyle?

13 March 2025

Discover the best custom decking option for your lifestyle. Nathan Brown Building compares hardwood and composite decking for durability and cost.

A well-designed outdoor space adds both functionality and value to a property, making the choice of decking material essential. Hardwood and composite are the two main options for custom decking, each offering unique benefits in durability, aesthetics, and maintenance. Understanding their differences helps homeowners and businesses select the best option based on lifestyle, budget, and environmental factors.

Hardwood vs Composite: An Overview

Hardwood and composite are both popular choices for high-quality outdoor decking. Hardwood, sourced from species like spotted gum, merbau, and jarrah, offers a durable and timeless aesthetic with unique grain patterns. However, it requires regular maintenance to preserve its appearance and longevity.

Composite decking is a modern alternative made from recycled wood fibres and plastic, offering durability and resistance to weather, pests, and moisture. Designed to mimic the look of timber, it provides a low-maintenance solution for custom decking. Comparing its characteristics with hardwood can help determine the best choice for individual needs.

Key Differences Between Hardwood and Composite Decking Custom Decking

When choosing between hardwood and composite for custom decking, several factors should be considered, including material composition, durability, maintenance, aesthetics, and cost.

•  Material Composition – Hardwood decking, made from natural timber, offers a unique and luxurious appearance, especially when sourced from sustainable forests. However, it requires proper treatment to prevent moisture and insect damage. In contrast, composite decking, made from recycled plastic and wood fibres, provides a low-maintenance alternative with high resistance to moisture, mould, and termites.

•  Durability and Longevity – Durability is essential for custom decking, as outdoor structures face harsh environmental conditions. While hardwood is highly durable with proper care, it can warp, crack, or fade over time. Composite decking resists weather damage, does not splinter, and often comes with long-term warranties, making it ideal for coastal and high-traffic areas.

•  Maintenance Requirements – A key difference between hardwood and composite decking is maintenance. Hardwood requires regular staining, sealing, and sanding to prevent mould, rot, and colour fading. In contrast, composite decking needs only occasional cleaning, making it a low-maintenance option for long-lasting custom decking.

•  Aesthetic Appeal – Decking significantly influences the ambience of an outdoor space. Hardwood offers a timeless, luxurious appeal with natural grains that develop a rich patina over time, making it ideal for traditional settings. Composite decking, available in various colours and finishes, provides a sleek, modern alternative with greater design flexibility.

•  Cost Comparison – The cost of custom decking depends on the material, installation, and maintenance requirements. Hardwood may have a lower initial cost but requires ongoing upkeep, while high-quality timber can be more expensive upfront. Composite decking has a higher initial price but offers long-term savings with minimal maintenance, making it a cost-effective choice over time.

Choose Nathan Brown Building for All Your Custom Decking Needs

For expert custom decking solutions, Nathan Brown Building is a trusted custom deck builder and also offers residential and commercial renovations, construction, and building services in Newcastle Lake Macquarie. With over 28 years of experience, we specialise in bathroom renovations, building extensions and renovations, decks and pergolas, and all types of renovation projects, both large and small. Our team is committed to delivering high-quality craftsmanship and tailored solutions to meet your specific needs.

For more information on decking materials, visit Bunnings Warehouse for insights on decking options, materials, and installation guides.

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