When it comes to building or renovating a deck, selecting the right material is one of the most important decisions you’ll make. Australia’s climate can be harsh, with intense sun, heavy rains, and coastal salt air posing unique challenges. That’s why choosing the best decking material Australia offers is essential for a deck that is beautiful, durable, and low-maintenance. This comprehensive guide explores the most popular decking materials available in Australia, comparing their pros, cons, and costs to help you find the perfect match for your project.
Table of Contents
Why Decking Material Choice Matters in Australia
Australia’s diverse climate—from tropical north to dry outback and cool southern regions—demands decking materials that can withstand extreme conditions. Whether it’s UV exposure, termite risks, or moisture damage, your choice will directly affect:
Durability: Longevity and resistance to environmental damage.
Maintenance needs: How often sealing, painting, or cleaning is required.
Aesthetic appeal: The visual impact of your outdoor living area.
Cost-effectiveness: Balancing initial investment with long-term performance.
The best decking material Australia can provide will meet these criteria, ensuring your deck stays strong and stylish for years.
Popular Decking Material Options in Australia
2.1 Timber Decking
Hardwood Decking
Hardwood remains one of the most sought-after options for a natural and luxurious look. Australian hardwoods such as Spotted Gum, Blackbutt, Jarrah, and Merbau are especially popular.
Advantages:
Rich, natural appearance that blends with outdoor settings.
High strength and durability, particularly Australian hardwoods.
Excellent load-bearing capacity.
Disadvantages:
Requires regular sealing and oiling to prevent cracking, warping, or fading.
Susceptible to termites and rot if not maintained.
Price Range:
Typically ranges between AUD $90 – $150 per m² (materials only).
Softwood Decking
Softwoods like treated pine are more affordable and easier to work with, making them a budget-friendly choice.
Advantages:
Lower cost compared to hardwood.
Easier to cut and install, great for DIY projects.
Can be painted or stained in various colours.
Disadvantages:
Less durable than hardwood.
Higher maintenance and may not last as long.
Price Range:
AUD $50 – $100 per m².
2.2 Composite Decking
Composite decking is a blend of wood fibres and recycled plastics, designed to mimic the look of timber while reducing maintenance requirements. It has quickly gained popularity as one of the best decking material Australia options due to its versatility and long lifespan.
Advantages:
Low maintenance – no need for oiling, staining, or painting.
Resistant to moisture, termites, and UV fading.
Wide range of colours and textures available.
Environmentally friendly – often made from recycled materials.
Disadvantages:
Higher upfront cost compared to softwood.
Can become hot underfoot in direct sun if darker colours are used.
Price Range:
AUD $100 – $200 per m².
2.3 PVC Decking
PVC (polyvinyl chloride) decking is a fully synthetic material that offers excellent durability and zero maintenance.
Advantages:
Completely moisture-proof – ideal for coastal areas.
No risk of splinters, warping, or rot.
Very lightweight and easy to handle.
Disadvantages:
Often looks less natural than timber or composite.
Can be one of the most expensive decking materials.
Price Range:
AUD $150 – $220 per m².
2.4 Aluminium Decking
For those looking for an ultra-modern and long-lasting option, aluminium decking provides an innovative alternative.
Advantages:
Extremely durable, rust-proof, and fire-resistant.
Requires almost no maintenance.
Non-combustible – ideal for bushfire-prone areas.
Disadvantages:
Can feel less warm and natural underfoot.
High cost and limited style options.
Price Range:
AUD $180 – $250 per m².
2.5 Bamboo Decking
Bamboo decking is an emerging eco-friendly choice in Australia, valued for its sustainability and modern aesthetic. It is manufactured by compressing bamboo fibres under high pressure, resulting in a dense and durable product that performs similarly to hardwood.
Advantages:
Sustainability – Bamboo is one of the fastest-growing plants on Earth, making it a highly renewable resource with a smaller environmental footprint compared to traditional timber.
Strength and Stability – High-quality bamboo decking is engineered for hardness and resistance to warping, making it comparable to hardwood in performance.
Modern Appearance – Offers a sleek, uniform grain pattern that suits contemporary architectural styles.
Moisture and Pest Resistance – Treated bamboo boards can withstand moisture, UV exposure, and termite attacks, making them suitable for many Australian climates.
Disadvantages:
Limited Availability – Bamboo decking is not as widely stocked as timber or composite options, potentially leading to higher shipping or sourcing costs.
Price Sensitivity – Premium bamboo products can approach hardwood pricing, especially for imported varieties.
Maintenance Needs – While more stable than softwoods, bamboo still requires regular oiling or sealing to maintain its colour and integrity.
Price Range:
Typically AUD $120 – $200 per m², depending on quality and supplier.
Comparing the Best Decking Material Australia Options
| Material | Durability | Maintenance | Appearance | Average Cost (per m²) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hardwood Timber | High | Medium-High | Natural | $90 – $150 |
| Softwood Timber | Medium | High | Natural | $50 – $100 |
| Composite | High | Low | Natural-look | $100 – $200 |
| PVC | Very High | Very Low | Modern | $150 – $220 |
| Aluminium | Very High | Very Low | Sleek/Modern | $180 – $250 |
Key Factors to Consider When Choosing Decking Materials
4.1 Climate and Location
Coastal Areas: PVC, composite, or aluminium are better suited as they resist moisture and salt corrosion. Coastal conditions accelerate timber decay, especially untreated hardwood or softwood, leading to warping, splitting, and discolouration. Using corrosion-resistant fasteners alongside suitable decking materials can further prolong the deck’s lifespan.
Bushfire Zones: Aluminium and certain hardwoods meet BAL (Bushfire Attack Level) requirements. Choosing fire-resistant decking materials reduces risks and may be required by local building regulations. Fire-retardant coatings on timber can also enhance safety.
Tropical or Humid Climates: Composite and PVC perform well due to moisture resistance. These materials prevent mould, mildew, and insect damage that are common in high-humidity regions. Proper ventilation under the deck also improves longevity.
4.2 Aesthetic Preferences
Timber Look: If you love the authentic, warm look of wood, hardwood or high-quality composite decking is ideal. Timber offers rich grain patterns and natural tones, while composite can mimic these textures without the upkeep.
Modern Style: For a contemporary look, PVC or aluminium works well. These materials provide consistent colours, smooth finishes, and sleek lines that match modern outdoor furniture and architecture.
Customisation: Board widths, finishes, and edge profiles further influence the deck’s overall appearance. Choosing a style that complements your landscaping and home design ensures a cohesive outdoor space.
4.3 Budget
Initial Costs: Softwood is the most budget-friendly choice for initial costs. Hardwood and aluminium are at the higher end.
Long-term Value: Composite and PVC may offer better long-term value because they require less maintenance and have longer lifespans, reducing replacement or repair costs over time.
Cost-Benefit Analysis: Consider not only upfront expenditure but also ongoing maintenance, sealing, and repairs to determine the most cost-effective option for your lifestyle.
4.4 Maintenance Commitment
Timber Decking: Requires regular oiling, sealing, or staining to maintain its appearance and prevent rot, cracking, or fading. This suits homeowners who enjoy DIY upkeep.
Low-Maintenance Options: Composite or PVC decking offers a hassle-free alternative, requiring only periodic cleaning with water and mild detergent.
Longevity vs Effort: Assess how much time you are willing to dedicate to maintenance. Low-maintenance materials can save years of work while preserving aesthetic appeal and durability.
Why Composite Decking Is Gaining Popularity in Australia
Composite decking has emerged as one of the best decking material Australia has to offer for modern homeowners. Here’s why:
Long Lifespan: Can last 25–30 years with minimal care. Unlike timber, composite boards resist warping, splitting, and fading, maintaining a high-quality appearance over decades.
Eco-Friendly: Made from recycled wood and plastics, composite decking reduces environmental impact. Choosing products with high recycled content supports sustainability while offering a durable surface.
Design Versatility: Available in various shades, grains, and finishes to mimic natural timber. This versatility allows homeowners to match their deck with surrounding landscaping or home architecture.
Low Maintenance: Requires minimal effort for upkeep. Composite decking does not need sanding, staining, or oiling, saving time and reducing long-term costs.
Durability in Diverse Climates: Resistant to termites, UV damage, and moisture, making it suitable for Australia’s wide-ranging climate conditions, from tropical north to coastal areas.
Warranties and Supplier Confidence: Many Australian suppliers provide warranties of 10–25 years, giving homeowners confidence in the material’s reliability and longevity.
Many leading Australian suppliers now offer high-quality composite decking that matches the durability of hardwood without the upkeep.
Installation Tips for a Perfect Deck
Hire Professionals: Unless you have advanced carpentry skills, professional installation ensures proper spacing, ventilation, and drainage.
Choose Quality Fasteners: Stainless steel screws and hidden clip systems enhance durability and aesthetics.
Consider Under-Deck Ventilation: Prevents moisture build-up, reducing the risk of rot or mould.
Apply Finishes (if timber): Oil or stain your timber decking annually to preserve its beauty.
Cost of Decking Installation in Australia
Aside from material costs, installation charges can range between AUD $200 – $500 per m² depending on complexity, labour, and location. Factors that influence installation costs include:
Elevated or ground-level deck – Elevated decks require additional support structures, increasing both material and labour expenses.
Framing and foundation requirements – Concrete footings, steel framing, or subfloor preparation can significantly raise costs.
Choice of railing and additional features – Glass balustrades, lighting systems, or integrated seating add to overall expenses.
Homeowners should also consider council approval fees, delivery costs, and long-term maintenance expenses when budgeting for their project.
Conclusion
Composite decking materials are becoming an important material for outdoor construction in the Perth area due to their durability, environmental protection, low maintenance and easy installation. With the increasing demand of consumers for environmentally friendly and high-quality materials, the composite decking market will continue to grow and develop towards higher technical levels and product innovation. By understanding the characteristics of composite decking materials, market demand and development trends, and installation and maintenance methods, consumers can make more informed choices and enjoy comfortable and durable outdoor spaces.
