Composite decking is a great alternative to traditional timber decking – it’s long lasting, low maintenance and eco-friendly. However, it can be difficult to judge how much you should set aside for your project because of the differences in material prices, accessories you may need, and your design choices.
So, we've put together this guide which breaks down the material, accessories and installation costs to help you get an idea of what to budget for. We also explore why choosing composite decking over timber can be more cost-effective in the long-run.
We also have a free online composite decking calculator which you can use to get a more accurate idea of costs.
What is Composite Decking?
Composite decking is a modern, innovative material designed to offer a durable and long-lasting alternative to traditional timber decking. Made from a blend of recycled wood fibers and plastic, composite decking combines the best qualities of both materials. This unique composition makes it resistant to common issues that plague traditional timber decking, such as rot, warping, and splintering.
One of the standout features of composite decking is its low maintenance requirements. Unlike timber decking, which needs regular sanding, staining, and sealing, composite decking only requires a simple clean once or twice a year. This makes it an ideal choice for busy homeowners who want to enjoy their outdoor spaces without the hassle of constant upkeep.
In addition to its practical benefits, composite decking is also an environmentally friendly option. By incorporating recycled materials, it reduces the demand for new timber and helps to minimize waste. This makes it a great choice for eco-conscious homeowners looking to create a sustainable outdoor space.
Composite decking is available in a wide range of colors and styles, allowing you to customize your deck to match your aesthetic preferences. Whether you prefer the look of natural wood grain or a sleek, modern finish, there is a composite decking option to suit your needs. With its combination of durability, low maintenance, and environmental benefits, composite decking is a smart investment for any outdoor space.
Composite decking materials cost
Composite decking material prices vary depending on the product you choose and quantity. At Eurocell, our composite decking boards range from £21 to £72* each based on their finish, thickness and length, or range; composite hollow decking, clarity hollow decking, forma capped decking or solid decking.
Composite decking is a low maintenance alternative to traditional timber decking, which can save you money on upkeep over time.
To get started, you need to measure your space and calculate how many square metres of decking you want to install, so you know how many boards to purchase.
For example, starting at £21.60* our excellent-value composite dual sided decking board is made of a recycled wood polymer construction, offers a 20 year guarantee and is durable. However, our more premium Havana forma dual sided decking board, which is £47* per board, uses advanced co-extrusion technology to generate an externally durable outer layer.
So, whether you decide to go for a low cost option, or invest in a more advanced one, all of our composite decking is manufactured to a high standard and is built to last.
You can use our free composite decking calculator which gives you an estimate of the products you need.
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EC-DECK-AB Ancient Black Composite Dual Sided Decking Board - Length 3.66m x Width 145mm£23.71 £19.76 -
EC-DECK-SLS Salt Lake Silver Composite Dual Sided Decking Board - Length 3.66m x Width 145mm£23.71 £19.76 -
ECOLIN36OX Onyx Linea Dual Sided Capped Composite Deck Board - Length 3.6m x Width 140mm£32.45 £27.04 -
ECOLIN36GT Granite Linea Dual Sided Capped Composite Deck Board - Length 3.6m x Width 140mm£32.45 £27.04
Composite decking installation costs
The estimated cost of installing composite decking can be around £100 to £250 per day depending on the labour costs, location, the time of year, the size and layout of your decking, and even the fastening system. Also impacting your installation costs will be your substructure material, decking joists, accessories, site accessibility and whether you need a permit.
If you are hiring a professional, it shouldn’t take more than a few days to install depending on your specifications. You could do it yourself which would result in significant cost savings, but your project time will likely be longer and you might not get the same finish compared to getting it done by a professional.
Avoid cutting corners when it comes to installation, so that the durability and performance of the composite decking isn’t negatively impacted. The deck should be structurally secure, installed following the manufacturers guidelines, and use proper finishing.
Hiring a trustworthy and professional company to install your deck can ensure your decking looks good right from the start. Be sure to do your research, check reviews, ask for recommendations and results pictures, and communicate regularly. It’s worth getting in touch with a few companies to compare prices – but the ultimate decision should be made with a quality installation and value in mind.
Labour Costs and Time Frames
When planning to install composite decking, it’s crucial to consider the labor costs and time frames involved. The cost of hiring professionals can vary significantly based on factors such as the size of the area, location, and complexity of the job. On average, professional installation companies may charge around £200 per day. For smaller decks, approximately 15 square meters, the installation can typically be completed in a single day, keeping labor costs relatively low. However, larger or more complex projects may take 2-3 days, increasing labor costs to between £400-£600.
To ensure you get the best value for your money, it’s advisable to obtain quotes from at least three different companies. This allows you to compare prices and services, ensuring you choose a company that offers both quality and affordability. Local decking specialists or landscape gardeners are excellent starting points when searching for professionals to install your composite decking.
It’s also essential to verify that the installation company has experience with composite decking. An experienced professional will be familiar with the specific requirements and techniques needed to install composite decking correctly, ensuring a durable and aesthetically pleasing result. Additionally, reputable companies should provide a warranty for their work, giving you peace of mind that any issues will be addressed promptly.
By carefully considering the labor costs and time frames, and choosing a professional company with a proven track record, you can ensure that your composite decking project is completed efficiently and to a high standard. This will provide you with a beautiful and functional outdoor space that you can enjoy for years to come.
Composite decking accessories costs
You will need to purchase accessories for your composite decking to secure it and maintain its appearance. The number of accessories that you need depends on the size of your project.
We offer a composite decking fastener kit which includes 150 screws and 165 plugs for £48*. It enables seamless fixings and reduces the need for gaps between deck boards. A 50-pack of our composite decking colour coded screws is priced at £20.78* and they are colour matched to the range.
Our decking angle trim starts from £11.83* each and is used to conceal edges and is good for creating steps. You may also need to purchase fascia boards which we sell for £48.12* each and are used to cover exposed joist work and create risers in steps. Again, these can be colour-coded to match your decking and are available in popular colours such as black, grey, white, brown and more.
You might also choose to install a lighting system, protect joists with tape products or purchase a cleaner. It’s important to check with the manufacturer to ensure the accessories are compatible with your composite decking and don’t impact your warranty.
Composite decking installation costs
The estimated cost of installing composite decking can be around £100 to £250 per day depending on the labour costs, location, the time of year, the size and layout of your decking, and even the fastening system. Also impacting your installation costs will be your substructure material, decking joists, accessories, site accessibility and whether you need a permit.
If you are hiring a professional, it shouldn’t take more than a few days to install depending on your specifications. You could do it yourself which would result in significant cost savings, but your project time will likely be longer and you might not get the same finish compared to getting it done by a professional.
Avoid cutting corners when it comes to installation, so that the durability and performance of the composite decking isn’t negatively impacted. The deck should be structurally secure, installed following the manufacturers guidelines, and use proper finishing.
Hiring a trustworthy and professional company to install your deck can ensure your decking looks good right from the start. Be sure to do your research, check reviews, ask for recommendations and results pictures, and communicate regularly. It’s worth getting in touch with a few companies to compare prices – but the ultimate decision should be made with a quality installation and value in mind.
Composite decking accessories costs
You will need to purchase accessories for your composite decking to secure it and maintain its appearance. The number of accessories that you need depends on the size of your project.
We offer a composite decking fastener kit which includes 150 screws and 165 plugs for £48*. It enables seamless fixings and reduces the need for gaps between deck boards. A 50-pack of our composite decking colour coded screws is priced at £20.78* and they are colour matched to the range.
Our decking angle trim starts from £11.83* each and is used to conceal edges and is good for creating steps. You may also need to purchase fascia boards which we sell for £48.12* each and are used to cover exposed joist work and create risers in steps. Again, these can be colour-coded to match your decking and are available in popular colours such as black, grey, white, brown and more.
You might also choose to install a lighting system, protect joists with tape products or purchase a cleaner. It’s important to check with the manufacturer to ensure the accessories are compatible with your composite decking and don’t impact your warranty.
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EC-FASSCREW-AB Ancient Black Composite Decking Colour Coded Screws - Pack of 50Special Price £20.83 £17.36 Was £21.61Was £18.01 -
Composite vs wood decking costs
Timber decking boards tend to be less expensive compared to composite decking boards, but composite decking has lower maintenance costs which can be more cost-effective in the long run.
Wooden decking requires sanding, staining and chemical treatment to prevent it from rotting and warping, so it can cost more in materials and labour. It’s also more prone to fading whereas composite decking retains its finish.
Composite decking lasts between 20 to 30 years on average, whereas wood decking lasts around 10 to 15 years depending on how well it’s kept. There are a variety of factors to consider, but if you evaluate the cost vs longevity of composite and wood decking, you’ll get a better idea.
Is composite decking worth the money?
While composite decking can be costlier upfront compared to wood, there are several benefits which mean long-term it provides better value for money.
Composite decking is low maintenance and only requires a deep clean once or twice a year. Unlike wood decking, it doesn’t need staining or painting to maintain it. It’s also more resistant to rot, fading, mould, scratches and insects making it a very durable option. It typically lasts longer than other materials such as wood.
It’s available in a range of finishes and colours to suit your garden design, and its natural appearance can transform your outdoor space. It can be cut and installed in different ways depending on your specification so you can get creative with your space.
What’s more, it’s often more sustainable because it’s made of plastic composites and reclaimed wood fibres, making it a great option for eco-friendly homes and businesses. By improving the appearance of your property, you can also make it more attractive to buyers.
At Eurocell, our composite decking comes with a 20 to 25 year guarantee giving you extra peace of mind that your investment is worth it.
Browse Eurocell’s range of composite decking online to find out more.
*All prices for Eurocell products are correct on the date of publishing. Please check the individual product pages for exact prices at the time of reading as these might be subject to change.