True cost of composite boards at purchase

Price ranges across entry level mid range and premium

Composite decking isn’t a one-price product. There’s a wide spread depending on what you’re buying. Entry level ranges can be affordable enough to tempt people moving from timber. These boards usually have a thinner cap or even no cap at all. Mid range boards come with better scratch resistance and colour stability. Premium ranges bring thicker profiles, stronger cores, and more natural wood grain effects. The difference in price per square metre across these levels might feel big at first, but it sets the foundation for long term value.

How board profile affects cost

Hollow boards cost less than solid boards. That’s because they use less material and are lighter to ship and install, which directly impacts the overall cost of composite deck boards. Solid boards are stronger and often last longer, but they also cost more upfront. Then there’s the shape and groove type. Boards with grooves down the sides are made for hidden fixing, which can save time and make the deck look neater, but the clips add cost too. Flat edge boards need to be face-fixed, which might lower your material bill but raise your labour charge. You need to weigh these costs based on who’s building the deck and what look you’re after.

What drives freight and supply charges in Australia

Freight in Australia is expensive. Decking boards are long and bulky, so they cost more to move across states or into regional areas. Remote delivery can double the overall cost per square metre when freight’s included. That’s before you even get to availability. Some profiles or colours may be out of stock or require minimum orders. This is where local warehouses or stockists become useful. By using a product that’s already stocked in your state, you avoid delays and lower freight charges. You can also hunt for composite decking deals to reduce your shipping spend. 

Long term spending saved on upkeep

Annual cost of oiling and staining timber

Timber decks need yearly care. That means buying oil, stain, brushes, and sometimes hiring a tradesperson. For a standard deck, that can run hundreds of dollars every single year. If you miss a year, the wood can dry out or go grey, so you’re forced to start again with sanding and deep cleaning. This upkeep adds thousands to the cost over time. Composite avoids most of that because it doesn’t need oiling. It holds its colour and texture for years, saving both time and money.

Cleaning routine for composite boards

Composite boards are easy to clean. Usually, a quick sweep and hose down are all that’s needed. For tougher grime, a soft brush and soapy water will do. You can use a high pressure cleaner if you keep the nozzle at the right distance, but most of the time, you don’t need to. No sanding, no sealing, no toxic chemicals. That keeps your running costs and effort low. More on this can be found in how to clean composite decking.

Comparing repair bills over a decade

Over a ten year span, timber often needs repairs. Boards cup, split, or rot, and need replacing. That adds cost and effort. Composite stays straight and stable because it resists moisture. Damage from pets, chairs, or weather is rare unless the deck has been poorly installed. If a board ever does need replacing, it’s usually a simple swap because of the clip systems. This repair simplicity, along with lower damage risk, makes long term maintenance far cheaper than timber.

Service life under Australian sun and rain

UV resistance and fade rates

Australia’s UV levels are high. Timber fades fast under harsh sun unless it’s treated often. Composite boards are made with UV stabilisers. The colours do soften slightly in the first few months, but then hold steady. Most boards have been tested under accelerated UV exposure to simulate ten or more years outdoors. The better brands use a cap layer that resists both fading and surface wear. 

Performance in tropical alpine and coastal zones

Weather matters. In coastal areas, timber can swell and split from salt exposure. Composite boards hold up better because they don’t absorb moisture like wood. In alpine regions, freezing and thawing won’t cause cracking. Tropical zones with heavy rains and high humidity don’t cause rot or mould if the boards are capped properly and have enough airflow underneath. The right board choice depends on your location. Boards rated for moisture-heavy environments are listed under decking by climate zone.

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Everyday wear and tear

Scratch resistance in high traffic homes

Kids, pets, outdoor chairs, and barbecue trolleys can all leave marks. Composite boards are designed to resist scratches better than timber, especially the capped models. The harder outer layer stops light damage and keeps the surface looking neat. It won’t stop deep gouges from something like a dropped hammer, but normal day to day use doesn’t do much. If surface wear is a concern, textured finishes tend to hide marks better than smooth ones.

Splinter free surface for kids and pets

Timber splinters, especially as it ages or dries out. That’s risky for barefoot kids or dogs running around. Composite boards stay splinter free, even at the ends or edges. That makes them safer for play areas, poolsides, and anywhere you walk without shoes. The safety factor here is long term, not just during the first year. If you’re building a family deck, this is often one of the biggest deciding factors.

How composite handles furniture and barbecues

Outdoor tables and BBQs get dragged across the boards. Timber dents or scratches under pressure. Composite is more resistant to impact and weight, though it helps to use furniture pads. The boards don’t stain from food or grease easily. Caps are non porous and wipe clean with warm water. This is useful if your deck is part of a regular hosting area or used for weekend grilling.

Safety on deck

Slip ratings in wet conditions

Decks near pools or gardens get wet. Some composite boards are tested for slip resistance under both dry and wet conditions. The ratings are shown on product spec sheets. Textured finishes offer more grip than smooth ones. You’ll want to choose a board that meets R11 or P4 standards if you’re near water ((Australian slip resistance ratings for wet areas). This is not just a personal safety issue but often a building compliance requirement.

Bushfire performance ratings

If you’re building in a bushfire zone, you need boards that meet BAL standards. Composite boards come in various BAL ratings, usually up to BAL 29. This means they can resist radiant heat, ember attack, and some direct flame. Not all products qualify, so you need to check if the board has been independently tested. Look through bushfire rated decking options for approved ranges.

Heat build up under bare feet

One complaint people have is hot boards in summer. Composite can get warm under direct sun, but colours and caps affect this. Lighter tones stay cooler. Boards with matte finishes don’t trap as much heat as glossy ones. Ventilation under the deck and nearby shade also make a difference. If barefoot comfort is key, go for lighter grey or tan shades, particularly if you’re sourcing materials in composite decking Australia.

Environmental footprint

Recycled content and local sourcing

Composite decking is often made from recycled plastic and wood fibres. That cuts down on landfill and avoids using fresh timber. Some boards use over 90 percent recycled materials. If the plastic comes from local sources, the carbon footprint is even lower. You can read more about eco decking options and the recycled content breakdowns per board.

End of life recycling options

Boards that last 20 or more years still eventually need to be replaced. The best composites can be recycled again, either into new boards or other products. Timber, once treated, can’t be recycled and usually ends up in landfill. That gives composite an edge in long term environmental responsibility. Check whether the board type you’re considering can be recycled locally.

Comparing energy use during manufacture

Timber needs cutting, drying, treating, and sealing. Composite boards are extruded using a mix of heat and pressure. This uses energy too, but many factories run off renewables or have closed loop systems. Energy use per board can be lower when measured against the full life cycle including upkeep and repairs. Some brands show a carbon report across the decking life span.

Design freedom

Colour and texture variety

Composite boards come in dozens of colours, from classic browns to greys and charcoal. You can pick based on house style, paving colour, or just preference. Some ranges mimic grain patterns and knots, while others go for clean modern finishes. Timber has fewer options unless painted or stained, and those fade fast. You can compare the full colour chart of composite decking boards here.

Finishing profiles for edges and stairs

Edges matter. Composite boards come with matching trims and edge pieces. That includes nosing boards for steps, fascia covers, and breaker boards. You get a cleaner finish and don’t have to cut down standard boards to size. Timber often needs sanding and mitre joins which take more time. Composite edges stay smooth and don’t crack with movement.

Ease of installation

Hidden clip systems

Hidden fasteners are used on grooved boards. They slide into the side and hold the board without surface screws. That means no drilling, no visible holes, and faster installs. It also makes replacement easier. The clips hold boards evenly and allow for natural expansion. If you’re looking for speed and looks, hidden fixing is worth the upfront clip cost. Some suppliers like Brite Decking provide fixings free of charge.

Managing joist spacing and ventilation

Composite needs good substructure. Joists should be spaced right, usually closer than timber, and airflow must be allowed under the boards. That stops mould and swelling. Some boards need ventilation gaps or drainage slopes. Get the spacing wrong and the board might sag or buckle. Most suppliers give charts showing joist spacing by board type.

DIY friendly tips and common errors

Composite decking can be installed by confident DIYers. The boards cut like timber and clips are easy to use. Common mistakes include over tightening screws, ignoring expansion gaps, or poor ventilation. Boards expand slightly with heat and need room to move. Check DIY composite decking tips and videos for step by step help.

Value at resale

How buyers rate composite versus timber

Buyers are starting to favour low maintenance outdoor spaces. Real estate agents often point out composite as a selling point. It signals less upkeep and more durability. Timber may still appeal for some older homes, but most buyers want ease. When surveyed, more than half of buyers preferred composite if it looked and felt like wood.

Survey data on outdoor living premium

Outdoor spaces can add tens of thousands to property value. Decks that look neat and don’t need repairs are more attractive. Composite holds its appearance longer, meaning your space keeps its appeal at the next sale. Buyers also like the idea of not having to stain or seal every year. This makes your home more market ready without future costs hanging over it.Want help choosing the right board? Explore the full composite decking guide or contact us on 1300 481 664 for personalised advice.