Hardwood or composite decking? It’s not a simple choice, and there are quite a few factors to consider before you buy.

There is much to recommend hardwood when it comes to aesthetics, as long as it is sourced responsibly. This is not always easy, so at Alaster Anderson we are currently investigating an alternative option.

But first let’s compare hardwood and composite decking point by point, to help you decide what’s right for your garden.

To begin, what is the main difference between the two?

Wood is the traditional material used for decks (think the Atlantic City Boardwalk—the first oceanside wood boardwalk in the U.S.).

Composite is the name given to synthetic decking, a wood-polymer mix.

So how do they compare?

Upfront cost

Wood typically costs less than composite decking. Softwoods are the most economical option but are not as durable as hardwoods, nor do they exude the same air of quality. Some of the more sophisticated hardwoods such as ipe (pronounced “ee-pay”) can be expensive.

Composite decking generally comes with a higher price tag than wood, but lower maintenance costs can reduce the price differential over time.

Maintenance

Wood must be well cared for to prevent splitting, cracking and discoloration. It readily absorbs water so requires regular treatment with sealers, stains and paint to maintain a pristine appearance.

Softer woods such as pine, fir and spruce are susceptible to rotting, and even hardwoods will suffer if they are not properly maintained.

Composites are weather-resistant, will not splinter or rot and do not require sanding, sealing or staining. There may be some mould and mildew over time, but they are generally low maintenance. Cleaning twice a year with soapy water is recommended.

While wood can last from 10-30 years before needing repair, composite decks are manufactured from long-lasting materials that should withstand natural wear and tear for up to 50 years.

Aesthetics

Aesthetics are the defining factor for most of our clients. Hardwood decks have a natural warmth and feel, and an authentic look. As well as ipe, popular tropical hardwood decking options are yellow balau and garapa.

While composites are stain-resistant and come in a variety of colours, they can look artificial. Modern varieties can be made with a randomised embossed grain pattern so that no two boards are alike, giving an appearance closer to real wood.

Composites can become uncomfortably hot in direct sun – something that does not happen with wood – but modern methods have reduced heat absorption to reduce the inconvenience. Most composite decks have built-in resistance to UV rays, to stop them fading – again, you may prefer the natural look of wood.

Sustainability credentials

Softwoods grow faster than hardwoods, so they are easier to replenish after trees are cut down. Composite decking is also marketed as an environmentally friendly alternative to timber.

While this would seem to make these a more sustainable option than hardwoods, suppliers are increasingly offering hardwoods that are responsibly sourced and certified by the Forest Stewardship Council. These trees come from managed forests where sustainability is the guiding principle.

End of life is another important factor. When composite decks are removed they nearly always go to landfill, whereas wood can be recycled on smaller projects or at local household waste recycling centres.

On the other hand, with exotic hardwood species transported from the tropics there are CO2 emissions to consider.

An alternative?

Because these choices aren't easy, at Alaster Anderson we have been looking at alternatives.

One is Brimstone Ash, a new British-made product created with a technology called thermal modification. This involves super-heating English ash to 210° degrees to stabilise the wood, making it durable and turning it a rather lovely dark chocolate brown.

It offers a quality performance akin to hardwoods with the advantage of supporting UK woodlands and without any of the sustainability drawbacks connected to tropical wood.

We will be testing Brimstone Ash over the coming months and will report back on our verdict.

Get in touch if we can help you with your garden project. You can reach us on 0207 305 7183 or email at enquire@alasteranderson.com