Outdoor Decking Systems

Timber is the most obvious choice for decking material, but it’s by no means the only option. Composite decking is quickly rising in popularity within NZ due to its lack of maintenance and often recycled material makeup.

The best things to consider when choosing an outdoor decking material are the amount of maintenance you are happy to undertake on an ongoing basis, where the deck is located, and of course, total budget. 

These factors will all make a difference to which product is best for your project. For example, if the deck area is going to be partially shaded, in full sun or near the coast and likely to be affected by salt spray, will determine the types of products that are best suited to that setting.

What is composite decking?

Like composite timber, composite decking is a mix of wood and plastic and a binding agent in most cases, designed for longevity and strength. Composite decking is often heavier and more durable than solid timber decking. 

Timber decking

Timber decking is popular, and arguably a quintessential part of residential New Zealand architecture. Locally grown pine and macrocarpa and tropical hardwoods are generally the top choices for timber decking, with pine and macrocarpa the most cost-effective option.

Hardwoods are generally tropical timbers such as kwila, garapa, jarrah, purple heart and vitex, which are much stronger than pine, and less likely to cup and warp over time. Kwila is generally accepted as the best performing hardwood for New Zealand conditions.

Outdoor Timber decking requires yearly maintenance, including staining, sanding to remove any splinters, and cleaning to remove any moss or mould growth. 

Composite decking

Composite timber decking is manufactured with a combination of materials, most commonly a mix of recycled wood fibre, plastic and a binding agent to create a timber-look product that is stronger and generally more durable than its solid timber counterpart. 

Visually, it is almost indistinguishable from solid timber, which has led to its rising popularity in New Zealand as a solid timber alternative.

Composite decking can create a very natural look while offering a virtually maintenance-free decking option. Due to its makeup, it doesn’t require staining, oiling, painting or other regular maintenance as solid timber does. Depending on the type of composite chosen, it can also be non-slip, an advantage when used around the pool or wet areas. 

Also unlike solid timber, composite decking won’t warp, cup or splinter over time. However, depending on the type of composite chosen, it can be affected by exposure to UV light. This is more so with those composites that incorporate a higher ratio of plastic so it’s important to understand what the product you choose is made with. 

Bamboo decking

Bamboo is a newcomer to the outdoor decking market, but its benefits are many. Bamboo is known as one of the most renewable plant sources due to its ability to reach maturity in as little as five years, with wood being harvested repeatedly from the same plant. 

Bamboo eco decking is manufactured with dried strips of bamboo that is glued together into a solid plank. This process allows for a hard-wearing, durable decking material that, like composite decking, can create a very natural aesthetic while removing the need for ongoing maintenance.

What is non-slip decking?

Most timber decking, including composite decking boards, has a non-slip treatment factory applied to it to reduce the risk of falls when wet. 

What is modular decking?

A great solution for DIY deck builders, modular decking is generally sold in kits, with pre-cut lengths of decking, a frame and joists. Many modular outdoor decking come in squares, which can be used together to create a level or split-level decking.

Clever outdoor decking and hidden deck fastening systems

There are various different ways to install a deck, with a range of systems available. Many of the latest iterations of outdoor decking systems incorporate hidden deck fastening systems that allow for all the fixings to be concealed and a seamless surface. 

Waterproofing outdoor decking

Decks are one of the known risk areas for waterproofing issues in New Zealand so it is important to ensure any deck is installed correctly and in line with current standards. Find more about deck waterproofing and floating deck systems in NZ