Hardwood Decking Timber

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 due to its lack of maintenance and often recycled material makeup. The best things to consider when choosing a 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, these will determine the types of products that are best suited to that setting. Similarly, if non-slip decking is of concern, there are various options that outperform others in this regard.

What are the benefits of timber decking?

Hardwoods are generally tropical timbers such as kwila, garapa, jarrah 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.

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

What are the top decking timbers in New Zealand?

• Kwila Decking

• Pine Decking

• Jarrah Decking

• Garapa Decking

• Vitex Decking

• Tonka

• Purple Heart decking

• Saligna

• Teak

• Macrocarpa decking

What are the benefits of composite timber 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: why is it considered an eco decking material?

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

Decking accessories and systems

Just as there are many options for the types of timber and material available for decking in New Zealand, so too are there various systems for deck construction. Whether it’s a floating or cantilevered deck system, or the type of deck bearers, jacks or hidden fastening systems, the options are vast. If you’re not sure where to start, it can be a good idea to get a Design Board together, with options that stand out to you before discussing the project with builders to see what's possible within the budget and space.

Read more about The ultimate guide to decking materials for your decking project.