Composite Decking Sydney
Design your dream backyard with leading specialists who offer an 8 year warranty, personalised services & competitive pricing on composite decking services.
Sydney's Best Composite Timber Deck Builders
You don’t need to sacrifice the elegant charm of natural timber anymore (and you can say goodbye to splinters, too) with advanced composite decking materials. Protected by industry-leading polymer capping technology, it’s time to enjoy a new Sydney composite deck resistant to stains, termites, rot, warp, discolouration, and damage.
With refined details perfectly resembling wood grain, you get all the advantages of an eco-friendly decking Sydney build and lose none of hardwood’s exquisite, rustic charms.
We believe genuinely great boards should stand the test of time – that’s why we’re a leading installer of composite decking in Sydney. To date, we offer four brands of composite decking boards with a 25+ year warranty – suited for all types of properties.
Composite Decking Sydney Solutions
Combining unique style and sophistication, Azek composite decking delivers a premium performance product to your home. Artfully designed to replicate the look of natural wood, enjoy moisture-resistant capping and a range of durable advantages that will look as stunning as the day it was installed for many years to come.
Trex is the world’s largest manufacturer of composite decking boards. Made of 95% recycled materials, it doesn’t need to cut down a single tree to create modern, elegant materials that are almost indistinguishable from hardwood – but offer a wide range of advantages instead.
Combining the aesthetic appeal of timber with the benefits of composite deck materials, millboard is rising in popularity. Not only are they long-lasting and resistant to termites, but they’re also environmentally friendly. Oh, and no painful splinters if you venture outside without footwear.
When it comes to maximizing living space, we’re all about making the most of the outdoors and indoors. To that end, we put a lot of effort into making our gardens and yards places for entertainment and relaxation for as long as our climate allows.
Ready to get started on your decking project?
What are the Benefits of Composite Decking?
Composite decking is the fastest-growing alternative to timber options on the planet, and with a list of benefits as long as your arm, it’s not hard to see why. While it’s easy to say that the benefit of composite decking is that it is merely “not wood”, that would be selling things short. When you plan on spending your weekends relaxing outside, it helps to know the boards underfoot can handle any guests, outdoor furniture, and elements.
At UrbanArch Building, we’ve got years of experience working with Sydney households to turn unused outdoor spaces into functional and exciting decks that become central to the way you live your life.
When it comes to low-maintenance composite deck boards that keep money in your pocket, it’s tough to go past these benefits:
- Less maintenance (meaning more time to yourself)
- Wide range of colours and textures to choose from
- Supporting the environment through recycled materials
- Protected against scratching, fading, staining, and mould
- No splinters (ouch), warping, twisting or splitting
- Termite-resistant and rot-proof (extending the life of your deck)
Composite deck boards are suitable for many applications around your home
Benefits Of Choosing UrbanArch Building
12 Years Of Experience
8 Years Warranty
Family Owned & Operated
Personalized Services
Excellent Local Reputation
Exquisite Timber Products
Fast and FREE Quotes
On-Time, Within-Budget Project Completion
Competitive Pricing
Ready to get started on your decking project?
What is Composite Decking Made Of?
With the appearance of stunning timber but the durability advantages only man-made composite can offer, this option is for the homeowner who values their time outdoors. For more information on our decking range or composite decking Sydney services, contact UrbanArch Building today.
Composite decking Sydney – it’s become the newest buzzword in outdoor living, but what does it *actually* mean? Unfortunately, with all the choices available to the homeowner today, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed about choosing the suitable composite decking material for your project.
If you’re like most homeowners and have been thinking, “What is composite decking?” or “What is the right composite decking material for me?” you’ve come to the right place to find the answer. Three main types of composite deck materials are available in today’s market: Capped composite, Capped PVC Composite & Polyurethane combined with mineral stone:
What are best decking boards in the Australian market
There are three main types of Composite Deck board available in the Australian market that we install, and our selection criteria are very straightforward:
1. Would we install it for ourselves?
2. Have the composite board materials got a proven track record?
3. Do the boards stand up to the wear and tear of an Australian household and climate?
4. How strong ( and straightforward) is the warranty?
and
5. Can our installation teams wear their boots when installing the deck?
The boards that we typically find best suited to decking Sydney are:
Capped Composite Polyurethane and stone flour & Capped PVC Composite
Capped composite
Capped composite decking material is an engineered product that consists of a core and a cap. This makes it seem like a simple product when the make-up of this board is anything but simple. Trex deck boards are an example of products made through this process. However, unlike hardwood which requires trees to be cut down, this type of composite decking board sources wood from recycled materials, making your new board an environmentally-friendly green addition to your home.
The core of a capped composite deck board comprises two primary ingredients: wood (e.g. sawdust, wood chips, wood fibre) and plastic bonded together during the manufacturing process.
The bonded polymer that caps each board prevents boards from splintering, cracking, or warping and helps protect the composite board from the harsh weathering effect of our Australian climate.
These boards blend beautifully with our modern lifestyles so that weathering, fading, scratching, and staining are no longer problems that we need to consider.
Modern manufacturing methods like double embossing have allowed companies to produce composite decking boards that show complex and distinctive grain patterns and textures comparable to the beauty of hardwood decks from the not-too-distant past.
Not only are modern composite decking boards comfortable to walk on, but the quality of the manufacturing process also ensures that the lustre and beauty of the decking boards will endure for the entire 25 years, leaving you with a deck that will look as good in the future, as the day it was installed in your home.
Capped composite boards are made through what’s known as a ‘co-extrusion’ process.
This combines all the raw materials needed to create composite decking (e.g. sawdust, wood fibres, wood chips, recycled plastic) and melts them into a mixture. This mixture is then shaped into the boards you’ll see online and at your local hardware store, making it tough to spot the difference between timber and composite. But unless you’ve got incredible X-ray vision, you won’t notice the additional protective layer bonded to the substrate to prevent delamination (i.e. layers splitting in your board). This process might be invisible, but it adds a rock-hard shell to protect against foot traffic, stains and spills, plus protection from the sun’s harmful UV rays, which can fade natural wood.
Some ideas for using composite deck boards in your home
Examples of capped composite decking boards
Trex capped composite deck boards
Timbertech Pro capped composite deck boards
Polyurethane and mineral
What is polyurethane?
Being seamless and water resistant, polyurethane is the ideal material to create deck boards that won’t warp or rot. It’s a material that is supple like rubber but rigid and hard-wearing like plastic, but it won’t warp over time like rubber will. And because there is no wood content, it won’t play host to damp or insect larvae. It’s the perfect material for outdoor use all year round.
Millboard is a perfect example of this type of composite decking. It is also reinforced with mineral stone and surfaced with a unique Lastane coating that gives it an almost natural feel underfoot. This type of composite decking is perfect around pools.
Millboard composite decking is hand moulded from natural timbers and is difficult to distinguish from the real thing. The Millboard product range has become so popular in Sydney that it has become one of the top three deck materials in the market.
Why has Millboard composite decking become so popular?
- It is wood free and non-porous, giving it good resistance to algae and mould and one of the best slip ratings available. It is perfect for around pools and wet areas.
- On a sunny day, many composite deck boards can become hotter than timber deck boards. This is not the case with millboard, which sheds the heat load very quickly and is noticeably cooler for bare feet.
- Millboard decking is solid, not hollow. This gives it great strength and means it won’t warp or rot.
- It’s a tough and durable board. The unique Lastane® surface layer gives it great character and feels and resists scratches and stains.
- The board has been designed to withstand the kinds of demanding outdoor environments that we have in Sydney.
- The boards are eco-friendly and use recycled materials during the manufacturing process.
There’s no doubt about it – this type of composite decking looks brilliant.
Millboard Boards
Charred
Capped PVC Composite
Capped PVC decking is made from a synthetic material, making it more durable and moisture-resistant than traditional wood decking. PVC decking typically consists of a core made from PVC and other plastics and a protective cap that covers the board’s surface. The cap is usually made from a harder, more durable material, such as acrylic, to resist scratches, stains, and fading. Because of its composition, PVC decking doesn’t rot, warp, or splinter like wood decking, requiring less maintenance. PVC can avoid most of the pitfalls of timber decking — such as susceptibility to moisture — which leads to mould, mildew, rot, and, most noticeably, cupping or warping. Additionally, PVC decking is often more eco-friendly than wood decking since it can be recycled and doesn’t contribute to deforestation.
✓ Looks like real wood — Gives you all the beauty of natural timber — including realistic grain patterns — without the drawbacks.
✓ Premier durability — proprietary polymer blends from core to the cap, offering excellent protection from fading, staining, weathering, mould, and rot.
✓ Protected by the best — Backed by some industry-best industry-best warranties, with some companies offering a Limited Warranty and 50-Year Fade & Stain Limited Warranty.
✓ Low maintenance —You won’t need to concern yourself anymore with the annual and costly maintenance routines required for a timber deck. All that’s needed is the occasional wash-down with a hose.
✓ Long-term Value — You can improve the value of your home with the addition and practicality of a beautiful and practical deck. It can be like adding an extra room to your home.
The long-term benefits of choosing a capped polymer composite decking outweigh the cheaper upfront cost of a traditional hardwood timber deck. At first, the price of a capped polymer deck can be higher than a timber deck. However, once you factor in the costs for maintenance, acid washing, sanding, re-staining, and repair on a wood deck, a capped polymer deck will usually be a more cost-effective option for a Sydney homeowner.
Natural-Looking Designs
The tech behind capped pvc decking means you won’t have to sacrifice beauty if you choose this type of deck board. The boards offer a realistic wood look with a blend of natural colours. The board is capped with a stain-resistant and scratch-resistant polymer shell made from polyvinyl chloride. It is a tough thermoplastic material and is strongly resistant to weathering, chemical and moisture-based rot and has strong anti-abrasive properties so that it won’t scratch or scuff easily. It is ideally suited to the range of weather conditions in Australia.
Durable, Long-Lasting Materials
Capped polymer boards with effective cap technology offer Sydney homes excellent levels of high performance and protection from the variety and range of weather we experience in a typical year. From blistering heat to heavy downpours of rain resulting from high humidity levels, the boards are protected from mould, moisture and mildew damage. With a capped PVC board, you get the beauty of wood without the ongoing and expensive maintenance needed for a traditional timber deck.
Deck products for everyday living
Children playing and family pets won’t scratch up your deck, and the colours won’t fade due to our fierce summer sun. With a capped PVC deck, you can forget about the effects that family life and our harsh sun will have on the look and durability of your deck. Choose the right brand of decking board, and you will also enjoy a far cooler deck than most composite boards. Thermal protection is a real boon for tender little feet on a hot day.
An example of a Capped PVC deck board
Why Choose UrbanArch Building?
Quality
We understand you are investing your hard-earned funds - so we invest our skill, patience, and energy to deliver your finished vision using quality materials - not second-hand or auction sourced.
On-Time & Within Budget
We arrive on time, and we will stick to the budget agreed upon. You’ll receive a schedule of work, explaining the workflow and schedule for your project.
Attention to Detail
We do the job the way it is supposed to be done - no shortcuts and we pay attention to the small details - every single time!
Family Owned
We are a locally and family-owned business. That means, we know exactly what every home and business owner deserves.
Custom Design
We offer a custom design and if you want something a little or a lot different - we can help you out.
We Genuinely Care
We genuinely care and we are committed to our clients with exceptional levels of customer care.
Responsive
We are fast and responsive. If you ring us, we will answer you straight away.
Customer-Focused
You are our client - we will always look after you.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does composite decking cost in Sydney?
Let’s talk dollars and cents.
On average, a single board starts at $137 and goes up. Deck boards are only one part of the cost structure when you look at deck pricing.
That’s why it’s easier to quote a project based on total costs (including installation, the substructure, and the boards), which leaves the average price between $180 to $320 per square metre – this covers the boards and hidden fasteners.
As with any project, you’ll need to factor in several variables relating to the cost of your finished deck. These typically include:
- Size: How big is your new deck going to be? Installers will quote based on the total size.
- Materials: With multiple brands and products to choose from, your price will be impacted by your chosen manufacturer
- Design: The shape and style of your deck will impact your overall price, with custom cuts and complex structural shapes costing more.
At UrbanArch Building, we set the standard in quality, low-maintenance alternatives to wood that won’t break the bank. Our composite decking Sydney experts design for Australian conditions and offer unrivalled lifestyle advantages, so if you’re interested in learning more, call 0413 185 735.
If you want to learn more, check out our guide for composite decking costs.
How long does the installation process take?
There are several considerations to consider when understanding how long a composite deck will take to build. Composite deck boards are generally quicker to install than hardwood boards. A straightforward installation can take 4 to 5 days to build a composite deck, while a larger, more complex deck can take 4 or 5 weeks to complete.
Below is a list of other considerations determining how long your deck takes to build. Take the time to sit down with your deck builder to work through a list of the design options for your deck and what they will add to the final price.
- Size: How big is your new deck going to be? The bigger the deck - the higher the cost
- Materials: Some composite deck boards take longer to install than others, though they are generally quicker to install than hardwood.
- Design: The more design features in your deck, the longer the installation process. Items such as deck lights, steps or stairs, handrails, planter boxes, fascias and bullnose edging and so on all add time to the build process.
- Location: Balcony decks, decks on land with severe slopes or over water, sites that are difficult to access for materials and so on will all need extra time allocated to them.
Why should you pay more for composite (when timber is cheaper)?
Every savvy homeowner knows a home improvement project is much more than an upfront price.
If you’re paying a handyman to build a deck in Sydney out of wood, you found washed up on Bondi Beach; you’ll be saving money hand over fist. But you’ll face years of expensive repairs and fixes when that board starts splintering and cracking within weeks.
A composite deck will cost more than the same-sized timber or wood deck, but you’ll make that money back (and then some) as the years go by. Hardwood doesn’t require annual maintenance and attention compared to traditional timber.
No staining. No oiling. No painting.
Better still, these boards don’t splinter, warp, rot, or deteriorate in the harsh Australian elements. So, you can save hundreds of dollars yearly that would have gone towards deck maintenance with traditional wood decking. Essentially maintenance-free – what more could you want?
Over the 25 to 30-year lifespan of a 40 sq metre deck, annual maintenance for $40 square will quickly add up. Over 10 ten years, it can add up to savings of $16,000, depending on the maintenance required.
How do I compare different composite decking materials?
Composite deck boards have been a popular choice for outdoor decks and entertainment areas for over 30 years, so naturally, there’s a wide range of brands to choose from.
Over time, brands have introduced dynamic innovations, new materials, upgraded manufacturing processes, and modern installation techniques to help deliver a superior board – but this does make choosing the suitable material more of a challenge for you.
Land on the wrong board, and you can quickly end up with a deck that’s not worth your investment and likely to cost plenty in future repair and maintenance costs. To help you choose the best board, always compare:
- Appearance
- Performance and warranties
- Price and manufacturer
Wondering what to look for when choosing the best product?
- Step One: Collect some samples of the boards you are interested in. Longer samples are better than shorter ones.
- Step Two: Put your preferred samples in shady and sunny areas to see how they look and feel under different conditions.
- Step Three: If your boards are hollow, they are probably not suitable for Australian conditions.
- Step Four: Scratch the board with your nail or a key to see if the edge of the cap chips or if the board top is easily marked.
- Step Five: Spill a little red wine or cooking oil on the board and see if it’s easy to remove.
- Step Six: Request BAL and slip ratings to see fire-resistant and slip-resistant qualities.
- Step Seven: Immerse a sample of the board in water for several days to see it it warps or swells.
- Step Eight: Call UrbanArch Building to chat about your options (we are more than happy to share our experience and expertise with you).
Capped vs. Uncapped Decking
With endless boards advertising themselves as ‘Maintenance-Free,’ it’s tough to know who’s telling the truth and who’s peddling false information. The most important thing to know is that capped decking boards fall into the ‘Maintenance-Free’ category because they’re protected with an extra layer bonded to your boards’ surface during manufacturing.
While early, first-generation boards were uncapped (meaning they were at risk of fading, mould and mildew), composite deck boards are now available capped. Every product we source and install offers advanced premium protection, keeping your boards safe and secure against outdoor furniture scratches, harmful UV rays, and clumsy family members. We only offer the best materials.
Best of all, the bonding process occurs during manufacturing under extremely high temperatures. That means no chemicals, bonding agents and adhesives that can end up in your garden when you choose this type of composite decking.
What brands do you supply and install?
Popular brands include Trex, Millboard, and Azek. We’re a leading installer of composite decking, and we install only those boards that have a proven track record for durability and that look good in the Sydney environment.
What composite decking colour should I choose?
Searching for the perfect composite decking colour to add a stunning appeal to your outdoor living space? With so many options, deciding which is right for you can be difficult. Luckily, we have compiled a guide to help you pick the perfect composite decking colours for your unique home.
One of the most critical factors when selecting composite decking colours is to choose one that complements your home’s style and aesthetic. If you have a modern or contemporary home, for example, a sleek grey or black deck colour may work best with your overall look. Similarly, a darker wood-tone composite may be your best option if your house is more traditional.
If your home is close to a beach area, one of the modern grey colours could be the ideal solution for you and provide the stunning difference and appeal you are looking for.
On the other hand, if your home is in one of the leafy inland suburbs typical in Sydney, a more traditional timber look like Trex Havana gold will probably give you the warmth and coziness you are looking for.
Ultimately, you want to create a cohesive look between your indoor and outdoor design styles.
Do you want a deck scape with multiple purposes and looks? Consider adding different colours of composite decking to designate specific areas.
You can create a multi-level design or choose two or three shades within one deck. This can effectively add accents within your outdoor space, creating distinct yet complementary areas with their own purpose.
For instance, a casual lounging area might have a more informal look than a dining area.
if you’re interested in learning more about composite decking colour availability and design options, call us on 0413 185 735.
Is composite decking suitable for use around a pool?
Composite decking around a pool is becoming increasingly popular for homeowners looking for low-maintenance solutions that still look their best. But before installing composite decking around your pool, it’s essential to weigh the pros and cons to make an educated decision.
As with any other home improvement project, the quality of materials is an important aspect. When choosing composite decking for your pool deck, a few things to remember are strength, stability, and aesthetics. Make sure you pick a composite that will withstand wear and tear and water exposure. Ensure the material is slip-resistant and won’t heat up too much in the sun.
Also, check the warranty of the material to ensure that it has colour fade protection (the best composite boards have colour-fast warranties of 25 years or more).
The benefits of composite decking around a pool are numerous. Composite decking is made of durable, long-lasting materials that are easy to maintain, resistant to pests and decay and don’t require staining or sealing. In addition, composite decking comes in various textures and colours to better suit your aesthetic needs.
Maintenance is also a breeze with composite decking – only minimal cleaning is required!
How long does composite decking last?
With a protective shell around your board’s inner core, they can last from 25 to 50 years with little maintenance. For more information on how long you can expect it to last, get in touch with the composite decking Sydney experts at UrbanArch Building.
How much maintenance will be necessary?
With so many defensive advantages, your new deck needs nothing more than a good sweep and wash 2 to 3 times a year to prevent dirt and grime build-up. You’ll also enjoy a deck resistant to mould, mildew, termites, and wear and tear. This material won’t fade or wear from exposure to the harsh sun.
If you want to learn more about our composite decking Sydney services, check out our articles:
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