Composite Decking vs Timber: Long-Term Cost & Maintenance in the UK
Introduction
Decking has been a British garden favourite for decades. But as more homeowners look for low-maintenance, long-lasting solutions, the big debate continues: composite decking vs timber decking — which is better for UK homes?
In this guide, we’ll compare cost, durability, and maintenance over the long term so you can decide which decking type works best for your outdoor space.
Cost Comparison in the UK
Timber Decking Costs
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Upfront cost: Often cheaper initially.
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Typical UK price range: £15–£25 per board (softwood), £30–£60 per board (hardwood).
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Hidden costs: Regular treatments, oils, stains, and replacement boards over time.
Composite Decking Costs
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Upfront cost: Usually higher than softwood, but competitive with hardwood.
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Typical UK price range: £20–£30 per board (hollow), £35–£50 per board (solid).
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Long-term savings: Virtually no treatment costs, minimal replacements.
💡 UK homeowner insight: While timber may look cheaper at checkout, the ongoing maintenance and replacement costs often make composite decking cheaper over 10+ years.
Maintenance in the UK Climate
Timber Decking
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Needs yearly sanding, staining, or oiling.
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Easily absorbs water — prone to rot, warping, and splinters.
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Slippery in British winters without anti-slip treatment.
Composite Decking
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WPC (wood-plastic composite) boards are water-resistant.
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Only requires an occasional wash with soapy water.
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Weatherproof against rain, frost, and UV — perfect for the unpredictable UK climate.
💡 UK homeowners love composite because it gives them more time to enjoy the garden, less time on upkeep.
Durability & Lifespan
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Timber: Softwood lasts 5–10 years in the UK if well maintained; hardwood up to 15–20 years.
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Composite: 15–25 years lifespan, with warranties often covering fading, staining, and structural integrity.
Composite decking is designed to withstand British weather without rotting or splintering, which makes it the safer investment.
Appearance & Style
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Timber decking: Natural, classic look — but colour fades quickly in UK weather unless treated.
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Composite decking: Modern finishes with deep 3D embossing, available in UK favourites like charcoal, ash grey, walnut, and oak. Boards keep their look with minimal effort.
Which is Better for UK Homeowners?
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Choose Timber if: You want the cheapest upfront cost and don’t mind ongoing maintenance.
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Choose Composite if: You prefer low-maintenance, long-term savings, and durability in the UK climate.
👉 For most UK households, composite decking is now the smarter choice — which is why it’s becoming the most popular option across England.
Vigo Home’s Take
At Vigo Home, we supply factory-direct composite decking — meaning no middlemen, transparent prices, and guaranteed stock availability.
We deliver across England with next-day dispatch, and orders over £1,500 qualify for free pallet delivery.
Conclusion
When comparing composite vs timber decking in the UK, the answer is clear: composite saves money and time in the long run.
Timber might still appeal to traditionalists, but if you want a garden upgrade that looks great and lasts decades, composite decking is the way forward.
👉 Browse our composite decking range today and discover why more UK homeowners are making the switch.