In recent years, the popularity of garden decks has surged, leading to the availability of a diverse range of materials for homeowners to select.

When planning a new deck, many homeowners opt for hardwood decking boards. However, there are alternative options, such as composite decking, which is the preferred choice for both homeowners and builders.

This blog post aims to provide a comparative analysis between composite decking and hardwood decking.

Hardwood Decking

Hardwood decking is popular due to its natural beauty. However, homeowners soon realize the significant maintenance required to preserve its appearance. Timber decking necessitates regular oil treatment due to its susceptibility to moisture absorption. Most deck installers recommend oiling twice a year to maintain its natural beauty.

In the event of a stain on the timber decking, the entire process must be repeated. Stains must be promptly removed to prevent discoloration. Achieving consistent color and weathering throughout the deck requires additional maintenance.

When selecting the appropriate fasteners for joining timber boards, several factors must be considered. Choosing the right nails or screws is crucial for securing the deck.

Composite Decking

Composite decking offers a more low-maintenance alternative to hardwood decking. It is composed of recycled materials, such as wood fibers and plastic, which give it its durability and resistance to weathering. Composite decking requires minimal oiling and staining, making it a convenient choice for homeowners.

Composite decking has emerged as the preferred choice for homeowners, installers, and builders due to its multifaceted advantages. As a sustainable material, composite decking is crafted from recycled polyethylene and wood fibers, making it an environmentally responsible option. Its non-slip, low-maintenance properties and splinter-free surface ensure a safe and comfortable environment for children and pets.

Decking clips serve as a convenient and aesthetically pleasing alternative to traditional nails or screws in securing composite decking boards. The colorfast nature of composite decking ensures its longevity, preserving its beauty for years to come. Compared to timber, composite decking offers a more cost-effective solution once installed.

For further guidance on creating an inviting outdoor living space for your family, visit our website at www.nicebackyard.com. Our deck professionals will provide you with the necessary information to embark on your decking project. We offer comprehensive supply and installation services.

Composite decking has a great low-maintenance alternative to wood. The composite decking industry had some growing pains in the past, but composite decking materials continue to improve and the number of quality products on the market increases each year.
 
 
Having an amazing deck can be the most wonderful feature of a home. Choosing the wrong deck can shell out thousands of dollars to get your deck back to where it was before the wear and tear. Decks add value to your home so you will need to be careful on what and how you choose your deck as it’s going to be permanent. The biggest frustration you’ll encounter will be choosing the best composite decking, no need to worry as we’re here to help you choose the best decking for your home. The benefits of having a composite deck are endless as you won’t have to repaint your deck, you’ll avoid potential termites and your deck will look brand new all year round.
 
 
Here are some guidelines for choosing the right deck:
 

1. Budget – Composite decking is a great option for those on a budget. Always consider the size of your deck and the cost of the installing systems. You can choose details right down to the texture of the deck. While on the lower end of your budget you might find fewer colors, repetitive grain patterns and smooth or combed finishes that always look great. You can also choose some of the best composite decking’s that are budget-friendly with a system that installs with face screws instead of hidden fasteners.
2. Look – If you are hesitant about a composite deck because you really want it to look like wood, no need to worry. The higher end composites have a fantastic grain design and look extremely wood-like in both feel and appearance. Many manufacturers will even buff the boards at the factory so there won’t be any plastic sheen appearance. Consider things too like railings, post caps, and decorative trim to give your deck the ultimate dress up.
3. Quality– A good quality will help you get the composite deck of your dreams. Since it’s a great addition to any home, you’ll find yourself spending more time on your new deck. However, do so comfortably too by considering how hot the deck will get, how much space you need, and how you can make it a serene space. From color to texture, analyze what will be the best for you.
4. Fun under the Sun – It’s important to understand that dark and dense composite decking options will get extremely hot in the sun. if you want to use your deck during summer, it’s probably best to avoid dark color. Also, if you’re sitting on a chair on your dark deck, the heat reflected off the plastic can make you sizzle. You can get composite samples in lighter colors and get them outside the sun for a test run before you choose which one you want.
5. To add fasten or not – Hidden fasteners aren’t important to everyone. Others care if they see the fasteners when looking at their new deck. But if you don’t want to see the hardware that went into the installation, then use the hidden fasteners.
6. Extras – Composite planks will use all the basic tools that a wood deck would. The decking planks are only a portion of what you’ll be paying for. You might need some end caps or other pieces too. Just make sure to consider all the extras when planning decking design. Consider special trim, skirt pieces and lovely add-ons like railings and posts.
7. Uses of your deck – When you are building the design for your deck, consider what you are going to use the deck for. You should consider things too when it comes to your decks so you can have your family and friends come over without feeling too tight. Extend your home into your yard with a large, spacious deck made of the best composite decking for more entertainment and enjoyment.

We hope that with the tips/guide that we provided, helped you choose the right and perfect Composite Decking to be added onto your home. At Nice Backyard, we supply and install too composite decking, just give us a call on (03) 9402 6483.

Decking is the ideal opportunity to extend your home into your garden. However, before building a deck on your own there are a few things you should consider that will help you build your own decking paradise.
 
Before you start laying down your deck boards though, it’s worth running through a quick checklist to make sure you’re covering your bases. Consider these guides at the beginning of your project and you’ll optimize design, manage the cost of building of your deck and create the backyard you dream of and not just the one you end up with.
 
 
Guides:

1. Location – Planning the location for your decking is the first important step to consider. If your property size is limited, then it will probably dictate where you can build a deck but if you have a large garden then some planning is necessary.

Tip: There are no set rules that say a deck must be attached to the house. You may find a detached location at the end of your garden that will provide the perfect getaway.
 

2. Size & Design – The size and design of your decking will be mainly determined by your deck’s location and your budget. Make sure to determine your budget before you start, as your plans for grandeur could realistically be a lot more modest.

3. Materials – When choosing your decking material, it is not always about looks; durability, affordability, and maintenance are also important considerations.

4. Screws & Nails – Low-quality screws and nails will corrode, discolor your deck and shorten its life. When the structure of decking fails, it is generally due to the use of faulty or low-quality fixings. Invest in stainless steel or coated decking screws that have been specifically made to resist corrosion.

5. Railings & Privacy Fencing – Platform decks are the easiest to build but if it is higher than a few feet off the ground, you may need to consider installing railings for safety. If your deck is visible to your neighbor’s garden or their garden is visible while you’re on your own deck you may also want to install a privacy screening that will help block the view from either vantage point.

6. Know your level of DIY Skill – Make sure you know what you’re getting yourself into before you start building a deck. Decking is a large project to undertake for any person with half DIY skills, but if you’re not so confident, you may want to consider consulting a professional. You could save yourself a lot of trouble and money in the long run.

We hope that with guides we provided helped you on how to start and what to consider before installing your DIY Decking. At Nice Backyard, we supply and install Composite Decking just give us a call on (03) 9402 6483

The deck is an awesome addition to your home. Not only it’s a great space to relax or entertain but also it adds beauty and value to your home. Whether you choose a natural wood deck or a low-maintenance composite deck, you can pick from a variety of styles based on the contours of your land and tour desires.
Adding a deck may seem like a lot of work but it’s relatively inexpensive and the long-term benefits greatly outweigh the initial cost. There are many options of materials for decks, from different types of softwood, composite materials that are resistant to scratches and stains. Then, of course, there are different styles of railings. Building a deck is very exciting and the process can be fun too. And when you finally decided to build one, just give us a call at Nice Backyard to help you with the planning and the installation.
 
Benefits of the Decking:

1. The deck is the ideal outdoor space for your guests

• It is a great outdoor space for entertaining. It’s the perfect area to host a family dinner, neighborhood gathering or even a simple barbecue. Since the dining room and inside the home can be crowded, owning and having a deck is perfect as you and the guests will have more space and fresher air. When the weather is nice too, the deck gives you the opportunity to enjoy the sunshine in a living room type setting.

2. A good quality deck increases the value of your home

• Decks are a sought-after feature for potential homebuyers. Homebuyers want to see a family-oriented outdoor space. Adding a deck can increase its value and desirability in case you ever want to sell.

3. Deck additions are the perfect extension for your home

• If you are looking to add space or extend your home, a deck addition is one of the quickest ways to do so. On the other hand, home additions can take months. A deck can be completed much more quickly. Home additions can also be intrusive to your lifestyle. In contrast, deck construction is much less invasive and keeps all the mess outside.

4. Deck gives you an extra space

• Adding a deck creates additional usable space for your family. It gives you a defined area for a grill, furniture, potted plants, and so many other things. This means less space used in the yard. When you have a deck, your yard becomes freed up for other uses.

5. The cost of a Deck is inexpensive and has a high value

• Compared to other home renovations, a deck can be very inexpensive. This is a great benefit for homeowners who are on a budget but still want to add value to their home. If your deck is made with high-quality, durable materials, it will last for a long time and give you years of enjoyment. Deck adds dimension to your yard and transforms the way it is used. Adding a deck is a great investment that will increase the value of your home and improve your quality of life.

We hope that with some information we provided helped you to know more about what the benefits you can get when you have a Deck outdoor. At Nice Backyard, we supply and install decks, just give us a call on (03) 9402 6483

Decks are a wonderful accessory to have for your home. They are a pleasant outdoor retreat for your home where you can relax, entertain or enjoy the afternoon sun. whether you are looking to add a deck, or you are looking to replace and update your current one, consider steering away from the wood standard and instead embrace the trend of composite decks for your home.
 
Composite Decking has grown in popularity over the past few years. It’s simple, no fuss option in more ways than one, which results to continue being on top as a favorite for builders. While traditional lumber holds up great against the elements, it also comes with a lot of work, sanding, cleaning, staining, and sealing. Composite Decking, on the other hand, offers the same level of protection without the annual upkeep. With many homeowners beginning to learn more about composite decking, here are the benefits that you can get when you choose composite deck:
 
Environmentally Friendly:
A fantastic aspect of composite decks that you will not find in most other materials is that they are environmentally friendly. Composite decks are made from recycled materials, helping to reduce the amount of waste found in landfills. And if you are an eco-minded person and wishes to help the environment, then composite decks are perfect for you.
 
Beautiful Aesthetics:
There is no denying that composite decks add a lovely look to your home. One of the biggest benefits of composite decks is the amount of customizability that comes along with it which allowing homeowners to pick and choose the beautiful design they want. Composite decks offer the same look and feel of wood, but with even more options and ways to give you exactly the outstanding appearance that you want.
 
Durable:
An important factor to always consider when looking for a deck is checking the durability of the material it is made from. Composite decks are known for their magnificent durability which means that there is no need to worry about replacing or restoring composite decks.
 
Low Maintenance:
Along with being one of the most durable types of decks on the market, composite decks are also low maintenance.  Unlike other materials, you have no need to ever stain or paint composite decks. On occasion, composite decks do require a minor cleaning, but that is about it. Once a composite deck is installed, you can just sit back, relax, and enjoy it.
 
Easy Installation:
Another perk of composite decks is that the installation is relatively easy. Wood decks can be a bit tricky and a hassle to install while composite decks, on the other hand, comes without the same hassle that wood decks have when it comes to installation.
 
 
 
Safety:
While lumber always comes with the threat of a splinter or two, composite decking is completely smooth. Not only your children can walk barefoot without the fear of splinters, but composite decking is also very slip-resistant, making it a great option for children and pets.
 
Cost:
When it comes to building costs, most people will be surprised to learn that composite decks are cheaper to build over the long run. Although they are often a little pricier at the start, composite materials cost less when maintenance and durability are factored in. But if you choose to go with pressure treated lumber, you will pay more in maintenance fees and still must replace the deck in about 10 years.
 
Pest Free:
When it comes to standard wood materials, homeowners are often faced with fighting off bugs. Without properly infused wood, these pests can result in wood rot, mold, unwanted growths, and other negative outcomes. Composite decking, however, is resistant to bugs and will not mold or decay over time.
 
Value:
Along with adding less maintenance to your life, composite decks increase your home’s value. In fact, most homeowners get back the money the put into composite decks after they sell. Not only does this mean that composite decking is cheaper to build over its lifespan, but you can also reap the rewards if you ever choose to sell your home.
 
 

We hope that with the benefits we provided helped you know more about Composite Decking. As We at Nice Backyard, supply and install Composite Decking. Just give us a call (03) 9402 6483 and we’ll be happy to assist you.