Hardwood vs Composite Decking

Choosing between hardwood and composite decking is one of the first decisions you’ll make when planning a new deck. Both have their strengths, and the right choice depends on your budget, how much maintenance you’re willing to do, and the look you’re after.

Here’s a practical comparison based on what we see building decks across the Northern Beaches.

Hardwood Decking

Spotted Gum, Blackbutt, Merbau. Hardwood timber has been the go-to for Australian decks for decades. It’s natural, it ages well, and when oiled regularly it looks great.

The trade-off is maintenance. Hardwood needs oiling every 12–18 months to keep its colour and protect against weathering. Without it, the timber will silver off over time. Some homeowners like the silvered look; others don’t.

On the Northern Beaches, salt air and UV exposure mean hardwood decks need a bit more attention than inland builds. But if you’re happy to oil once a year, hardwood is hard to beat for warmth and character.

Composite Decking

Composite boards are a mix of recycled timber fibres and plastic. They resist fading, scratching, and moisture, and they need almost no maintenance. No oiling, no sanding, no staining.

The upfront cost is higher than hardwood, but over 10–15 years the total cost of ownership can be lower because you’re not paying for annual maintenance.

Modern composites look significantly better than they did five years ago. The colour and grain patterns are more natural, and the range of finishes has expanded. That said, they still don’t have the same warmth underfoot as real timber.

Which Should You Choose?

It depends on what matters most to you. Here’s a rough guide:

Choose hardwood if: you love the natural timber look, you’re happy to oil annually, and you want a deck that develops character over time.

Choose composite if: low maintenance is your priority, you want consistent colour for years, and you’re comfortable with a slightly higher upfront cost.

What We Recommend

We build with both and we’re happy to talk through the pros and cons for your specific project. The best deck is the one that suits your lifestyle, your site, and your budget. Check out our full decks & outdoor living services for more on what we offer.

If you’re not sure, book a site visit and we’ll show you samples of both options in person.