Composite vs hardwood decking: which is best for your clients?
You’ve probably had this chat with clients more times than you can count. Do they go with hardwood or composite decking? Both have their place, and the right choice often depends on what the client wants in the long run.
At Abbey Timber, we work with installers every day who are weighing up those same decisions. With the largest range of decking timbers, composite decking, hardware, and tools ready for fast delivery, we’ve seen what works best on-site and what keeps clients satisfied long after the build is complete.
What is composite decking?
Hardwood decking is made from natural timber species such as spotted gum, blackbutt, or merbau. It offers a warm, organic look that ages beautifully when cared for, and many installers enjoy working with it because every board has its own grain and character.
Composite decking, like Abbey Timber’s Modern Deck product, is made from a blend of recycled timber fibres and polymers. It is designed to look and feel like real timber but without the upkeep. Advances in manufacturing mean the latest boards now have realistic grain patterns and tonal variation that closely resemble hardwood, giving clients the look they want with less maintenance.
Durability and lifespan
Hardwood remains a proven performer. Australian species such as ironbark and spotted gum are naturally dense and resist wear for decades when correctly sealed and maintained. They also age gracefully, taking on a silvery tone that many clients love.
Composite decking has earned its place beside hardwood thanks to its stability and strength. It resists warping, splintering, and fading under heavy use or harsh weather. The uniformity from board to board means faster installs and fewer call-backs, making it a practical choice for busy installers.
Maintenance and client expectations
Maintenance often drives the decision between timber and composite. Some clients enjoy the ritual of re-oiling their timber deck and watching the colour deepen again. For them, the process is part of the appeal.
Others prefer a set-and-forget approach. Composite decking only needs a light wash to stay looking good and does not require sanding or sealing. For installers, that means fewer maintenance questions later and a finish that stays consistent year after year.
Appearance and client objections
Some clients still hesitate over composite because they remember the early boards that looked overly plastic. Those days are gone. Today’s composite options feature detailed grain patterns, natural textures, and colour variations that capture the warmth of timber.
Abbey Timber’s range includes boards with two complementary tones on each side, allowing you to choose the final colour at installation or create a contrasting border without ordering more stock. The result is a realistic finish that satisfies both the client’s eye and the installer’s standards.
Installation time and finish
Hardwood rewards skill. It needs measuring, pre-drilling, and care with every fixing, which is why many installers enjoy working with it. The craftsmanship shows in the finished product, and clients appreciate that handmade quality.
Composite decking, by contrast, saves time through consistency. Straight, uniform boards mean quicker alignment and cleaner lines. Longer board lengths also reduce joins, creating a professional finish with less cutting and waste. For large or time-sensitive projects, that efficiency can make all the difference.
Cost and long-term value
Upfront, hardwood often looks like the budget-friendly choice. Over time, though, the cost of oils, stains, and labour for ongoing maintenance adds up. Composite decking generally has a higher purchase price but pays it back through durability and minimal upkeep.
Many installers find that offering both options works best. Timber suits clients who want natural character and tradition, while composite suits those who prefer a clean, modern look that lasts. Both materials deliver value when matched to the right project.
Helping clients decide
When clients ask which is better, the answer depends on their priorities. If they want something timeless, with the texture and variation that only natural timber provides, hardwood is still a great choice. If they want a deck that installs fast, stays consistent, and needs little maintenance, composite decking will tick those boxes.
Whichever way the client leans, Abbey Timber has the range, advice, and delivery network to help you get the job done right.
In summary
Hardwood and composite decking both stand strong in the Australian market. Hardwood brings authenticity and craftsmanship, while composite offers innovation, consistency, and time savings. More installers are now blending both materials across projects to meet different client preferences and site conditions.
Abbey Timber has the largest range of decking timbers, composite decking, hardware, and tools, with fast delivery and a Sydney showroom where you can see the difference for yourself.
If you would like more advice from one of the expert trade team at Abbey Timber, call or visit the showroom or chat to us online.