Updated October 2026

Composite vs timber decking

Composite costs more up front than most hardwood but needs no oiling or staining, so it usually works out cheaper over 10–20 years. Timber is cheaper to start with, stays cooler in full sun and is allowed in more bushfire zones.

	Composite	Hardwood
Up-front	Higher	Lower to similar
Upkeep	Wash it	Oil or stain every 1–2 years
Colour	Settles a little in the first months, then holds	Greys without oil
Splinters / rot	No splinters, doesn't rot like timber	Can splinter, check and rot if neglected
Full sun	Hotter, dark colours most	Cooler
Bushfire	Depends on the board's test; not BAL-40/FZ	Some species approved to BAL-29
Joists	300–400 mm	Often 450 mm

Pick composite if

You don't want to oil a deck again, it isn't in all-day western sun (or you go lighter), and the site's BAL allows it.

Pick timber if

Up-front cost matters most, the deck cooks in the afternoon, or the block is BAL-40 / BAL-FZ, where you need non-combustible decking anyway.

Questions

Is composite hotter than timber?

Yes, in direct sun, and dark colours more than light ones. Choose a lighter colour for an unshaded deck.

Does composite need oiling?

No. Wash it with water and a soft brush a couple of times a year.

Which lasts longer?

Composite doesn't rot or need re-oiling. Hardwood can last as long if it's oiled and kept clean; neglected timber usually fails first.

Pricing a deck? Count the boards, see the price list or get free samples.