Understanding the Cost of Composite Decking | What You Need to Know

Composite decking has become the go-to choice for homeowners wanting a smart, low-maintenance alternative to timber. We speak with people every week who are considering making the switch from traditional wood to composite, but there’s one question that always comes up early in the conversation: “How much does composite decking really cost?”

The truth is, the upfront cost of composite decking is often higher than basic timber boards, but that’s only part of the picture. In our experience, when you weigh up longevity, maintenance, durability and overall performance, composite often works out to be the more economical choice over time. Still, it’s important to break down the full cost so you can budget accurately and confidently.

Initial Cost: Composite vs Timber

Composite decking boards typically start at a higher price per metre compared to softwood alternatives. While pressure-treated timber might seem cheaper at first glance, those boards often come with a shorter lifespan and require ongoing upkeep. Our composite decking, for example, is designed to resist rot, warping and splintering, which means fewer repairs and replacements in the long run.

On average, the price for composite decking can range from £50 to £120 per square metre depending on the board quality, finish and accessories. Premium boards with wood-effect textures or co-extruded layers will sit at the higher end of that scale. We offer a wide range of styles and finishes, allowing customers to match the product to their outdoor vision and their budget.

What’s Included in the Price?

When comparing prices, it’s important to understand what you’re actually paying for. With composite decking, you’re getting a board that combines recycled wood fibres and plastic polymers for maximum durability. Many of our products also include a protective cap layer for added UV and moisture resistance.

Included in the price are usually the decking boards themselves – but don’t forget to account for the extras. You’ll need fasteners, trims, edging pieces and potentially joists or subframes depending on your installation type. We always advise customers to plan their full layout in advance, so they can get a clear picture of the total material costs.

On our website, we provide detailed product breakdowns and installation guides to help customers calculate how much decking they’ll need, as well as which accessories are compatible with each product range.

Installation Costs: DIY vs Professional Fit

One of the key factors that can influence overall cost is the installation method. Composite decking is designed to be straightforward to install, in fact, many of our customers fit it themselves using standard tools. If you’re confident with measurements and basic carpentry, it can be a very achievable DIY project, especially with the help of our online fitting guides.

However, if you’d prefer a professional finish or are dealing with a more complex layout, hiring a tradesperson is a solid option. Fitting costs will vary depending on your location and the complexity of the job, but you should budget around £40 to £60 per square metre for professional installation in most parts of the UK. We always recommend getting a couple of local quotes before deciding.

Long-Term Value and Maintenance Savings

In our experience, the biggest financial benefit of composite decking comes after the installation is complete. Unlike timber, which requires regular staining, sealing, and occasional replacement of rotten boards, composite decking needs very little upkeep. A simple wash with soapy water is usually enough to keep it looking great.

Because of its durability, composite decking is also much less prone to damage from weather, insects or foot traffic. That means you’re not spending time or money year after year on repairs or replacements. Over a 10–15 year period, these savings add up significantly, often making composite the more cost-effective option when viewed over time.

How Design Choices Affect Price

We’ve helped hundreds of customers plan their outdoor spaces, and it’s clear that design has a big impact on cost. Simple square or rectangular decks tend to be more affordable due to reduced cutting and waste. If you’re planning features like built-in seating, curved edges, or split-level layouts, you’ll need to factor in additional boards, more complex fixings and potentially extra labour.

Board orientation (diagonal vs horizontal), colour variations, and pattern inserts also affect the amount of material needed. While more intricate designs add visual appeal, they’ll typically raise your material and fitting costs. That’s why we recommend starting with a clear plan and consulting with us if you’re unsure how much to order.

Are There Budget-Friendly Composite Options?

Yes, and they don’t compromise on performance. We stock a selection of high-quality, affordable composite decking boards suitable for most residential projects. These tend to come in fewer colours or simpler profiles but still offer the same key benefits: weather resistance, strength, and ease of maintenance.

Our budget ranges are particularly popular with customers updating smaller patios, balconies or secondary outdoor spaces. They offer excellent value without sacrificing the clean, modern look that composite decking is known for.

Is Composite Decking Worth It?

If you’re looking for a long-lasting, visually appealing, and low-maintenance solution for your garden or outdoor area, composite decking offers real value, even if the initial investment is a little higher than timber. In our experience, most customers are glad they made the switch, especially once they realise how little maintenance is needed over the years.

We’re always happy to offer personalised advice on which composite decking options are right for your space and budget. You can find full product details, installation help, and request free samples directly from our website. Whether you’re planning a large outdoor entertaining area or a quiet garden retreat, we have a solution to suit every size and style.