If your garden could talk, it would want better decking. Choosing the right decking materials isn’t just a practical move, it’s a clear sign of how you enjoy the outdoors. With so many materials, finishes, and price points out there, making the right call can feel tough. Should you save money with cheap decking boards or invest in composite decking boards that offer long-term durability?
This blog cuts through the noise to help you judge your space, your aims, and your budget. Let’s explore both options and find which decking board truly deserves a place in your garden sanctuary.
Why Decking Deserves Careful Planning
Before diving into materials and budgets, let’s start with a simple fact: Your decking sets the tone for your entire outdoor space.
It's not just a surface. It’s a lifestyle platform.
Aesthetic Link: Decking links your indoor comfort with outdoor freedom.
Practical Zone: It becomes your go-to spot for summer evenings, barbecues, or a quiet cup of tea.
Property Value: Well-chosen decking can boost both kerb appeal and resale value.
Low-Maintenance Options Exist: With the right pick, you’ll save on sanding, staining, and repairs.
Cheap Decking Boards: Budget-Friendly or Budget-Trap?
Cheap decking materials have clear benefits, especially when your makeover budget is tight. But are they a great deal or really invite problems later?
Pros of Cheap Boards
Low-Cost Start: For short-term or light-use DIY projects like rental properties.
Simple to Find: Widely available and often cut to standard sizes.
Lightweight: Simple to install yourself for basic DIY use.
Cons to Consider
Less Durable: These materials tend to rot, warp, and splinter.
High-Maintenance: Expect yearly treatments to stop the rot.
Environmental Impact: Made from fast-grown softwoods or low-grade timber.
If you’re fitting these boards in a small space or a short-term update, they can add value, but it’s wise to weigh the trade-offs.
Composite Decking Boards: Worth the Premium?
Composite decking materials are made from a blend of wood fibres and recycled plastic, giving you the look of timber with next-generation performance.
What Makes Composite Stand Out?
Lasting Strength: They stand up to warping, splitting, and insect damage much better than natural wood.
Colour Hold: UV-resistant dyes help prevent fading, so your deck stays looking sharp.
Good for the Planet: Many brands use recycled materials, cutting down on landfill waste.
Easy Care: A quick scrub with soap and water is usually enough to keep them clean.
Things to Keep in Mind
Upfront Cost: You’ll pay more at the start, though you’ll save on upkeep in the long run.
Fitting Method: They may need special clips or fixings, which may add a bit to installation time.
Feel and Finish: Not every board feels exactly like real wood, so pick a reputable supplier.
5 Questions to Help You Choose the Right Decking Boards
Instead of choosing based only on cost or trend, ask yourself these questions:
1. What’s the purpose of the decking space?
If you’re making an area for entertaining, dining, or heavy use, you’ll want strong, weatherproof materials. For smaller, seldom-used spots like storage or paths, budget options may be entirely adequate.
2. How long do you expect it to last?
If this is your permanent home, investing in composite decking boards can save you time and money over the years. Their lasting power and minimal care make them perfect for anyone seeking long-term value.
3. What level of maintenance are you okay with?
Traditional timber decking needs yearly sealing, sanding, or staining to stay in good order. Composite decking, by contrast, only requires the odd clean to stay looking and performing well.
4. What is your climate like?
In regions with frequent rain, frost, or strong sun, timber can warp and decay quickly. Composite boards withstand harsh weather much better, giving you peace of mind through every season.
5. What’s your realistic budget?
Cheap decking boards might look tempting, especially for small jobs or tight budgets. But be sure to factor in the future costs of care, repairs, or even early replacement.
Decking Board Comparison at a Glance
With so many options available, it helps to see how they truly stack up side by side. This quick comparison highlights the key differences between budget-friendly materials and more premium alternatives to guide your decision.
|
Feature |
Cheap Decking Boards |
Composite Decking Boards |
|
Initial Cost |
Low |
High |
|
Maintenance |
High |
Low |
|
Durability |
Moderate (5–10 years) |
High (15–25 years) |
|
Aesthetic Variety |
Limited |
Wide Range |
|
Eco-Friendliness |
Depends on timber source |
Often recycled materials |
|
DIY Friendliness |
High |
Moderate |
Decking Board Myths Debunked
Let’s clear up a few wrong ideas before you decide:
“Composite doesn’t look real.”
Modern manufacturing has improved, and many composite products now show genuine wood-grain textures and natural shades. At first glance, they’re often hard to tell apart from hardwood, even close up.
“Wood is always cheaper in the long run.”
While timber might cost less at the start, it usually needs yearly sealing, repairs, and some board swaps. Over time, these upkeep bills can pass the cost of tougher options.
“You can’t customise composite decking.”
Many composite ranges come in a broad array of colours, grain patterns, and board widths. You can even choose modular kits for flexible layouts and custom looks.
Why Choose BuildersMerchant for Your Decking Needs?
When you want a sturdy, stylish, and budget-wise deck, where you shop matters as much as what you pick. At BuildersMerchant, we’re more than suppliers; we’re your trusted project allies.
1. Extensive Range of Decking Materials
From classic timber to modern composite decking boards, our hand-picked range makes sure you get the ideal match for design, cost, and performance.
2. Expert Product Knowledge
Our team knows decking inside out and is ready to guide you through materials, finishes, and long-term value, so you never buy without understanding.
3. Competitive Prices with Trade-Quality Value
We offer cost-effective options, including cheap decking boards, without cutting corners on quality, making us a favourite for both DIYers and trade experts.
4. Fast Nationwide Delivery
Have your decking materials delivered quickly and safely across the UK, helping you keep on track and stress-free.
5. Support You Can Trust
Whether you’re fitting it yourself or hiring a professional, we offer clear guides, honest advice, and live stock updates to make the process smooth from start to finish.
Need Help Choosing Your Decking Boards?
Decking is more than wood and nails; it’s what makes your outdoor area stand out. Picking between cheap and composite decking boards means weighing your start-up cost against long-term needs. If you want something quick, simple, and easy to swap out, go for timber.
But if you prefer a low-care, stylish option that lasts, composite could be your pick.
Either way, BuildersMerchant.com offers the quality and choice to match your plan. Let our team help you find the right decking for your garden, project, or property. Explore our full range online and get it delivered straight to your door. Your garden is ready; make it count.