Solid timber decking is 100% natural solid timber all the way through. It is available in many different species, each which has its own unique properties and benefits.
Hardwood species tend to be more expensive, but longer lasting - some examples of hardwood decking in NZ include Kwila, Vitex and Garapa. Softwood species tend to be more affordable, but don't last as long. The most popular softwood decking material used in NZ is Pine.
Composite decking is a man made product made up of a mix (or 'composite') of different materials. There are different types of composite decking, such as WPC and RMC.
WPC (Wood plastic composite)
A type of decking made from a wood plastic composite. It is characteristically more durable than real timber decking and requires less maintenance.
PVC is a type of decking made from polyvinyl chloride (also known as vinyl). It is characteristically lightweight and requires very little maintenance - however it tends to look the least like real timber.