Composite Decking

Composite decking is a sustainable alternative to natural timber, offering a beautiful outdoor space with minimal maintenance.

Explore our range below and see what it can do for your home.

FAQ

Composite decking is a high-performance, low-maintenance material made from a blend of recycled wood fibres and plastic polymers (often recycled HDPE). It combines the natural look of wood with exceptional durability and minimal upkeep. It's an excellent alternative to traditional timber.

Capped composite (which we primarily recommend) has a protective polymer shell that fully encloses the board. This makes it supremely resistant to staining, mould, moisture, and fading. Uncapped composite lacks this shell and is generally less resistant to the elements. We focus on capped products for long-term performance.

Key benefits include:

  • Extremely Low Maintenance: No annual sanding, staining, or sealing required. Just occasional cleaning.
  • Exceptional Durability: Highly resistant to rot, splintering, insect damage, and warping.
  • Colour Consistency & Longevity: Colour runs through the entire board (capped composite) and resists fading from UV exposure.
  • Splinter-Free & Comfortable: Safer for bare feet and ideal for families.
  • Eco-Friendly Option: Made from recycled materials and doesn't contribute to deforestation.

Modern composite decking features highly realistic wood-grain textures and a variety of natural colour tones. While it has its own distinct feel, the aesthetic is very authentic and designed to mimic species such as Spotted Gum, Jarrah, Oak, and many others.

We stock leading premium brands such as Modwood, Everdeck, and NewTechWood. Each offers different profiles, colours, and warranty specifications. Visit our showroom to feel the samples and compare.

The initial material cost for composite is higher than treated pine and comparable to or slightly higher than premium hardwoods. However, the total cost of ownership is often lower when you factor in zero costs for annual oils, stains, and the significant time savings on maintenance over 10+ years.

Use the same method as timber: calculate your deck's square metre area (Length x Width) and add 10% for wastage. Our team can double-check your measurements and provide a detailed quote. Remember to also calculate the required hidden fastener clips or screws.

We are specialists in supplying materials. We do not offer installation, but are happy to provide a list of experienced, accredited deck builders familiar with composite systems.

Each project has its own set of building specifications based on its size and the environmental conditions at its location. Please refer to the Australian building regulations or contact your local council for more information regarding composite decking construction.

Yes, if you are a competent DIYer. It requires standard tools and careful attention to the manufacturer's instructions for spacing, fixing, and cutting. The hidden fastener systems make for a clean, professional finish. Please see our Resources page for product brochures and installation guides.

We supply hidden/clip fastener systems for a seamless look with proper expansion gaps. Colour-matched screw-down systems are also available for picture-framing or borders. Always use the clips designed for your specific brand of decking.

Simple maintenance is key:

  1. Regular: Sweep or hose down to remove dirt and leaves.
  2. Periodic Clean (1-2 times a year): Use a composite deck cleaner and a soft-bristle brush or a low-pressure garden sprayer. Never use a high-pressure washer as it can damage the surface.
  3. For Stains: Most are removed with soapy water. For tougher stains, use a dedicated composite deck cleaner.

Capped composite is highly resistant. Mould and mildew may appear as a surface layer in damp, shaded areas, but do not penetrate the board. It can be cleaned off easily with an appropriate cleaner.

Like any decking material (including timber), composite can get warm in direct, hot sun. Lighter colours tend to stay cooler than darker ones. It generally doesn't get hotter than timber under the same conditions.

We supply complete warranty documentation with your purchase. Please note: warranties are only valid if installed exactly according to the manufacturer's specifications. Each warranty varies by supplier, ranging from 7 to 30 years.

You have two convenient options:

  1. Australia-Wide Delivery: We can arrange delivery directly to your address anywhere in Australia.
  2. Customer Pickup: You can collect your order directly from the Barwon Timber warehouse.

Once your composite decking is ready, our team at Barwon Timber will manage the logistics. They will contact you to schedule a suitable delivery date/time. This service ensures your order is delivered safely and efficiently right to your doorstep or job site.