Wood Decking vs Composite which is used most in the UK

In this article, you’ll find out which is the most popular decking solution in the United Kingdom between wood decking and composite decking.

There is nothing more appealing than a well cultivated and properly maintained outdoor space. As a country filled with garden lovers, we place a high premium on elegant landscapes, beautiful deck boards and colourful plant pots. Cosy outdoor furniture, exotic fire pits and inviting yard lighting. Every glimpse of sunshine is an opportunity for an outdoor cookout. This shows that most UK residents are always looking forward to improving their garden in preparation for outdoor activities.

Decking is regarded as a wise investment that not only provides a spot for entertainment and relaxation to your loved ones but enhances your home resale value while contributing to its curb appeal.

Once upon a time, timber wood was the only decking material available. While it had a fantastic appearance when newly laid, it had the disadvantage of expensive and time-consuming maintenance.

Fortunately, composite decking is an eco-friendly alternative that combines the benefits of wood and plastic material ⁠— enhanced strength, moisture resistance, durability, and low maintenance.

However, it might be difficult to decide which decking option is used the most in the United Kingdom between composite and timber decking. Statistics have shown that although few homeowners still embrace timber decking boards for their outdoor needs, the market share of composite decking has continued to increase at a rapid pace. This is because composite decking has features that are ideal for gardens in the United Kingdom.

These features include:

Aesthetics and beauty

Aesthetics and beauty are important factors to consider when choosing a decking board. Homeowners who prefer an authentic wooden appearance generally stick with timber decking because it is made of wood.

Today, composite decking that has the feel and looks of real wood are available in the market.

Timber wood decking is prone to discolouration and warp due to weather exposure, while composite decking will retain its appearance for decades.

Family-friendly

Composite decking is family-friendly because they are anti-splinter, possess finer consistency and strength. It neither splinters nor protrudes wood fragments, making it safe for your kids and pets.

Durable and Low-Maintenance Solution

Although timber wood feels and smells great, it can be expensive to maintain wood decking in areas with unpredictable weather conditions, such as the United Kingdom.

Composite decking is known for its minimal upkeep. While timber wood decking typically has a maximum lifespan of close to ten years, composite decking comes with a 20-year warranty. This means you can rest assured that you are getting a superior quality, high-performance decking product that will retain its wonderful appearance season after season.

A composite deck does not require sanding, painting or application of sealant. Just a simple wash with soapy water and a hose can keep your decking board looking as good as new.

Strong and Resistant to Weather Conditions

Composite decking is made from a blend of plastic and recycled wood fibres, suitable for areas with harsh weather elements. Because of its strength, composite decking lasts significantly longer than its wooden counterpart.

Composite decking is resistant to rust, decay, splinter or warp. It is strong, resilient and able to withstand harsh climatic conditions. High-performance composite decking is not prone to splits, cracks and twists.

Composite decking is impervious to moisture conditions, making it highly resistant to fading, warping and moulding.

For residential and business purposes, composite decking is an excellent choice because it has an anti-slip feature. This is why composite decking is far superior to wood. In rainy weather, timber decking can become very hazardous because its surface will become slippery.

From what we have outlined above, it is easy to see why there is an explosion in the use of composite decking in homes across the United Kingdom.