If you are planning to upgrade your garden or outdoor space, decking is one of the most popular choices. A well-designed deck can create the perfect spot for relaxing, entertaining, or simply enjoying your garden all year round. The main decision most homeowners face is whether to choose wooden decking made from traditional decking timber or modern composite decking boards. Both options have their advantages, and the right choice will depend on your budget, the look you want, and how much maintenance you are prepared to do. 

Timber Decking

Timber decking has been a firm favourite in UK gardens for decades. Natural wood brings a warm and timeless feel that suits both modern and traditional homes. At Harlow Bros, our range of decking boards includes different sizes and finishes, so you can achieve the exact style you’re after. 

Benefits of Timber Decking: 

  • Natural look and feel: Nothing matches the authenticity of real wood. Each board has its own character and grain pattern. 
  • Customisable: Decking timber can be stained, painted, or treated to suit your taste and match the rest of your outdoor space. 
  • Affordable options: If you’re working to a tighter budget, cheap decking boards made from softwood provide a cost-effective solution for building a new deck. 
  • Repairable: Scratches or marks on wooden boards can often be sanded out, extending their lifespan. 

 

Things to Consider: 

Wood does require ongoing care. Regular sealing, staining, or treating helps protect against weathering, rot, and insect attack. If you’re looking for a natural finish and don’t mind some maintenance, timber decking is a great choice. 

 

Composite Decking 

Composite decking is made from a mix of wood fibres and recycled plastics, designed to mimic the appearance of traditional deck boards while offering greater durability. It’s become increasingly popular with homeowners who want a long-lasting and low-maintenance option. 

Benefits of Composite Decking: 

  • Low maintenance: Unlike wooden decking, composite boards don’t need to be stained, painted, or sealed. A quick wash keeps them looking fresh. 
  • Durability: Resistant to rot, splintering, and insect damage. 
  • Consistency: Boards are manufactured to be uniform in size and colour, making installation straightforward. 
  • Long lifespan: Many composite products come with extended guarantees, giving peace of mind. 

 

Things to Consider: 

Composite decking usually costs more upfront than cheap decking boards, but the reduced maintenance often makes it cost-effective in the long run. Some people also prefer the authentic look and texture of real decking timber, which composites can only imitate. 

 

Which Should You Choose? 

  • Choose Timber Decking if: You want a natural look, the flexibility to refinish your boards, and a lower initial spend. Ideal if you don’t mind regular maintenance and love the character of real wood. 
  • Choose Composite Decking if: You prefer a low-maintenance solution that stays looking good with minimal effort, and you’re happy to pay a higher price at the start for longer-term savings. 

 

In summary, both timber and composite decking can transform your garden into a functional and stylish space. If you want affordable, authentic decking boards for your garden & landscaping, then timber decking is still a classic choice. But if you’re looking for convenience and durability, composite deck boards might be the better option.