Published 28 August 2026 · Reviewed by AriJah Construction
Short answer
Timber offers a natural finish and lower initial material cost; composite costs more upfront but needs less ongoing oiling and colour maintenance.
Maintenance and weather
Exposed timber needs cleaning and recoating to manage sun and moisture. Composite boards still need cleaning, but generally require less finish maintenance.
Appearance and feel
Timber varies naturally from board to board. Composite is more consistent. Samples should be viewed outside because colour and surface temperature change in direct sun.
Structure still matters
Board choice does not replace good footings, drainage, ventilation and framing. Those hidden details determine how the deck performs over time.
Compare whole-of-life cost, not boards alone
Timber can be economical to install and can be sanded or refinished later. Its ongoing cost is time and maintenance product: exposed boards need cleaning and recoating, and neglected areas can grey, split or absorb moisture. Composite costs more initially but removes most oiling from the maintenance cycle.
Quotes should identify the board brand or timber species, fixing system, edge treatment, stairs and wastage. The visible boards are only one part of the price; subframe condition, access and deck height can have a larger effect.
Heat, shade and everyday comfort
Dark decking—timber or composite—can become hot in direct summer sun. Composite products differ in surface temperature and texture, so view physical samples outdoors and consider lighter colours where people will walk barefoot.
A covered deck receives less UV but may stay damp longer after rain. Ventilation beneath the boards and clearance from soil or planting help both timber and composite systems perform as intended.
What to inspect on an existing deck
Before re-boarding, check bearers, joists, posts, stairs, ledger connections and signs of persistent moisture. New boards over a compromised frame only hide the expensive problem. Framing centres must also suit the selected product.
Photograph soft timber, movement, rusted fixings and drainage issues when requesting a quote. This lets the carpenter plan an inspection and explain whether repair, partial replacement or a full rebuild offers better value.
Turning this advice into a practical project
A deck should suit the level of the house, the way you use the yard and the amount of weather it takes. We build new decks and upgrade existing ones, including the steps, screens and handrails that make the space work.
What to include in your enquiry
Share the suburb, photos of the existing area, approximate dimensions, the result you want and any timing constraints. For this type of work, it also helps to identify which of the following items matter to your scope:
- New timber and composite deck construction
- Deck upgrades, re-boarding and repairs
- Steps, landings and access from the house to the yard
- Privacy screens and under-deck screening
Decisions confirmed on site
Hardwood timber gives a natural look but needs oiling; composite boards cost more upfront and need less upkeep.
Board direction, framing centres and fixing method all change the finished look and long-term performance.
Height above ground affects footings and whether balustrades are required.
A site visit turns general information into a buildable scope. Access, levels, existing structure and local requirements can change the right solution, which is why a tailored assessment is more reliable than an online price estimate.
Frequently asked questions
Can an existing deck be changed to composite?
Sometimes. The frame must first be checked for condition, spacing and compatibility with the selected boards.
This general guide does not replace site-specific building, engineering or approval advice. For practical options, see our Decks service.