Composite decking is quickly becoming a preferred choice for homeowners and contractors alike in Australia, offering a stylish, long-lasting alternative to traditional wood decking. Composed of a blend of wood fibers and plastic, composite decking combines the natural aesthetic of timber with the durability of synthetic materials, making it perfect for outdoor spaces in harsh Australian climates. While composite decking offers a multitude of benefits, one of the primary concerns for potential buyers is the composite decking price per m² in Australia. Understanding the factors that influence the price can help homeowners and builders make a more informed decision. In this blog post, we’ll take a comprehensive look at the factors affecting composite decking prices in Australia, what to expect when budgeting for your next decking project, and how to get the best value for your money.
Table of Contents
What Is Composite Decking?
Composite decking is a man-made product created by combining wood fibers or wood flour with recycled plastic. This fusion gives composite decking the look of natural timber but with much greater durability, resistance to moisture, and a lower maintenance requirement. Unlike traditional timber decks, composite decks don’t need to be stained, sanded, or sealed every few years.
While the composite decking price per m² in Australia may be higher than that of timber, the long-term savings in maintenance and replacement costs make it an appealing option for many.
What Affects Composite Decking Price per m² in Australia?
The price of composite decking in Australia is influenced by a variety of factors. Let’s break down the key components that can impact the final composite decking price per m² in Australia.
1. Material Quality and Composition
The material quality is one of the most significant factors affecting composite decking price per m² in Australia. Composite decking is available in a range of qualities, with some boards being capped (coated with an additional layer of plastic for greater durability) while others are uncapped. Capped boards are typically more expensive because they offer better protection against weathering, staining, and fading. The combination of materials (wood fibers and plastic) also impacts the price, with higher-quality composites often featuring more plastic for enhanced durability.
2. Thickness and Design
Another factor that influences composite decking price per m² in Australia is the thickness and design of the decking boards. Thicker boards generally offer better strength and stability but come at a higher cost. Additionally, decking products with intricate designs, textures, and custom colors can drive up the price. For instance, a smooth, uniform finish might be cheaper than a textured or wood-like finish, which requires more manufacturing processes.
3. Brand vs. Generic
Well-known brands like Hosung, ModWood, and Ekodeck often offer higher-quality products and warranties, but these brands also come with a premium price tag. Generic or less established brands, on the other hand, may offer more competitive prices for the same type of composite material, though they might not offer the same level of customer service or long-term warranties.
Brand names often command a higher composite decking price per m² in Australia, but they may be worth the investment due to their quality and reliability.
4. Location and Delivery Fees
The region where you’re purchasing the composite decking can also affect the price. Larger cities like Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane typically have more competition, which can lead to more competitive pricing. On the other hand, if you’re located in rural areas or remote regions, shipping fees may increase the overall cost of your decking project.
How Much Does Composite Decking Cost per m² in Australia?
The composite decking price per m² in Australia can vary greatly depending on the brand, material composition, and quality. Here’s a breakdown of the typical price ranges for composite decking in Australia:
Budget Composite Decking: Prices for entry-level composite decking range from $100 to $140 per m². These boards are usually uncapped and made from a higher percentage of wood fibers, which can make them more susceptible to wear and tear over time.
Mid-Range Composite Decking: The majority of composite decking options in Australia fall within the $140 to $180 per m² range. These boards typically offer a good balance between quality and affordability, featuring capped surfaces that provide enhanced resistance to moisture and UV rays.
Premium Composite Decking: High-end composite decking boards, which often include added features such as deeper textures, custom colors, and longer warranties, can cost between $180 and $250 per m². These products are typically from premium brands and provide superior durability, UV protection, and longer life spans.
Additional Costs to Consider
When calculating the composite decking price per m² in Australia, it’s essential to factor in other costs, such as:
1. Installation Costs
Most composite decking suppliers charge extra for installation. While DIY installation can save you money, professional installation may cost between $50 to $100 per m², depending on the complexity of the deck. Factors such as the size of the deck, the design, and the need for additional structural support can all impact installation costs.
2. Shipping and Delivery Fees
If you’re purchasing composite decking from a national or international retailer, shipping fees will be added to the final price. For example, delivery fees can be as much as $100 to $300, depending on the distance from the supplier and the size of your order. Always check whether the cost of delivery is included or if it will be an additional charge.
How to Save on Composite Decking Costs in Australia
While the composite decking price per m² in Australia can be higher than traditional timber, there are several ways to reduce your costs without compromising on quality:
1. Purchase During Sales or Promotions
Keep an eye out for seasonal promotions, end-of-year sales, or special discounts offered by retailers. These sales can often offer significant savings on composite decking materials.
2. Buy in Bulk
If you’re planning to deck out a large area, consider buying composite decking in bulk. Many retailers offer volume discounts for large orders, which can significantly lower the overall cost per m².
3. Choose Local Brands
Local Australian composite decking brands may offer more affordable pricing compared to international brands. While these products may not always have the same brand recognition, many local companies offer quality materials and excellent customer service.
4. DIY Installation
One of the easiest ways to save on your decking project is to take on the installation yourself. DIY installation can eliminate labor costs, which can otherwise add hundreds of dollars to the overall cost.
Where to Buy Composite Decking in Australia
There are many retailers across Australia that offer a wide range of composite decking products. Some of the most popular sources include:
Bunnings Warehouse: One of the largest hardware retailers in Australia, Bunnings offers a variety of composite decking options, including both local and international brands.
Trex Australia: Trex is one of the world’s leading manufacturers of composite decking, and their products are available through retailers and distributors across Australia.
ModWood: Known for producing high-quality composite decking, ModWood is an Australian brand that offers decking made from sustainably sourced wood fibers.
Online Retailers: Websites like Decking Supplies Australia and Composite Decking Australia provide a wide variety of decking options and often have competitive pricing.
Why Composite Decking is a Good Investment
Although the composite decking price per m² in Australia may be higher than that of traditional timber, it provides excellent value for money over the long term. Composite decking is low-maintenance, durable, and resistant to fading, making it a great option for homeowners who want to enjoy their outdoor space without worrying about constant upkeep.
Additionally, composite decking can increase the value of your property, as it offers a modern and stylish aesthetic that appeals to prospective buyers. Many homebuyers appreciate the benefits of composite decking and are willing to pay more for homes with high-quality outdoor spaces.
Conclusion
When considering composite decking for your outdoor area, it’s important to understand the composite decking price per m² in Australia and how it is influenced by various factors like material quality, design, and brand. While it may cost more initially than traditional timber decking, the long-term benefits of composite decking—such as durability, low maintenance, and aesthetic appeal—make it an investment worth considering.
By shopping around, considering local brands, and exploring DIY installation options, you can find the best composite decking solution for your budget and enjoy a beautiful, long-lasting deck for years to come.
