A Complete Guide to Choosing the Right Decking Material
Choosing the right decking material is a crucial decision for any outdoor project. Whether you are designing a residential garden, a commercial outdoor space, or a landscaped walkway, the choice between hardwood decking and composite decking can significantly impact the final look, feel, and performance of your space.
At Exterior Solutions Ltd, we supply both premium hardwood and composite decking in the UK, and we often get asked: Which one is better? The answer is not straightforward—it depends on your priorities, project scope, and long-term expectations.
In this guide, we compare hardwood and composite decking across key categories to help you make an informed decision.
Hardwood Decking: Timeless Appeal and Natural Beauty
There is no denying the aesthetic appeal of real timber decking. Hardwood offers a tactile, organic texture and rich, unique grain patterns that develop character over time. It is a material that has stood the test of time in architecture and landscaping, and when responsibly sourced, it’s also a sustainable option.
Benefits of Hardwood Decking:
- Naturally insulating and slip-resistant
- Ages gracefully with a silvered patina or can be treated to retain its colour
- Offers a warm, classic aesthetic
- Fully recyclable and biodegradable
- Suitable for a wide range of climates and environments
However, hardwood does require regular maintenance to preserve its appearance and prevent weathering or surface damage.
Composite Decking: Modern Innovation with Long-Term Performance
Historically, composite decking fell short of hardwood’s visual appeal. But thanks to major technological advancements, today’s composite decking is a high-performance product that closely resembles natural wood—without many of the drawbacks.
At Exterior Solutions Ltd, we have hand-picked premium brands such as:
- Exterpark™ Tech Composite Decking – Featuring a patented fastening system with invisible fixings and realistic wood-effect finish.
- Millboard Composite Decking – Offering unique finishes like charred timber effect and excellent insulating properties.
Comparing Composite and Hardwood Decking: Key Considerations
Maintenance Requirements
Composite decking wins when it comes to low maintenance.
- Requires only a light brush and wash with soapy water or a specialist cleaner like Owatrol Compo Clean.
- No need for regular oiling, sanding, or sealing
- Resistant to rot, insects, and moisture
By contrast, hardwood decking demands more upkeep to maintain its appearance and structural integrity. Without regular treatment, it can weather and become slippery or prone to splitting.
Durability and Strength
Both materials are highly durable—but the structure and installation matter.
Composite decking (especially solid boards) is:
- Strong enough to support heavy furniture, hot tubs, and outdoor kitchens
- Resistant to warping, splitting, and splintering
- Designed for high-footfall areas, making it ideal for commercial spaces
Hardwood decking is also durable when maintained correctly, but it is more sensitive to weathering and requires a high-quality substructure to perform well over time.
💡 Tip: No matter your decking choice, ensure your substructure is well-drained and correctly installed. We recommend aluminium supports or manufacturer-approved systems.
Eco-Friendliness
This is a hot topic—and both options can be environmentally responsible.
FSC-certified hardwood supports sustainable forestry and is fully recyclable at the end of its life.
Composite decking is often made from recycled plastic and wood fibres, reducing waste and reusing materials that would otherwise go to landfill. Recent innovations have also made composite boards more recyclable, further improving their green credentials.
Resistance to Scratches, Stains and Splinters
Low-quality composite products are prone to scratching and staining. However, the high-end composite decking we supply is:
- Scratch-resistant
- Moisture-resistant
- Easy to clean and maintain
Additionally, composite decking will not splinter, making it ideal for barefoot areas or children’s play zones.
Natural wood, although beautiful, can splinter and crack with age, especially if left untreated.
Aesthetic Flexibility
Hardwood decking offers natural, unique beauty—each board is one of a kind. That said, today’s composite ranges mimic timber so convincingly that many clients cannot tell the difference.
Our Exterpark™ composite boards even offer hidden fixings for a clean, seamless finish. Millboard’s carbonised effect also pairs beautifully with contemporary or Japanese-style gardens, especially when used alongside charred timber cladding.
Which Is Better: Hardwood or Composite Decking?
It all depends on your priorities.
| Project Factor | Best Option |
| Minimal maintenance | Composite decking |
| Traditional, natural appearance | Hardwood decking |
| Commercial or high-traffic use | Composite decking |
| Eco-conscious sourcing | Both (FSC/Composite) |
| Long-term performance | Composite decking |
| Aged, rustic finish preference | Hardwood decking |
Our Recommendation
At Exterior Solutions Ltd, we do not believe in a one-size-fits-all answer. Both hardwood and composite decking have their place in well-designed outdoor environments.
If your project involves:
- A large decked area
- Heavy use (e.g. parks, schools, commercial developments)
- A requirement for low maintenance
…then premium composite decking is likely the best choice.
However, for small garden spaces, heritage properties, or projects where the look and feel of natural timber is paramount, hardwood decking still reigns supreme.
Speak to the Decking Experts
Need help deciding? We’re here to guide you through the options.
👉 Call us on 01494 711800 to discuss your project
📦 Ask for decking samples to compare quality, texture, and colour
📍 Visit our showroom to see hardwood and composite decking in person
At Exterior Solutions Ltd, we’re passionate about delivering decking solutions that combine durability, beauty, and sustainability—whatever your vision.