Composite Decking vs Merbau - Which One Should You Choose for Your Albury Deck?
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Debating Composite Decking vs Merbau? You must be planning a new deck in Albury-Wodonga.
You're probably weighing up one of the most common choices that keeps homeowners awake at night.
Composite decking or Merbau timber? Both are popular decking materials in regional Victoria and New South Wales.
But only one can be right for your space, budget, and lifestyle without spending every weekend with a paintbrush?
In this guide, we break down the pros and cons of composite decking and Merbau. Specifically for Albury homeowners and builders who appreciate honest advice over sales pitches.
We’ll help you choose the right deck. We consider pricing, performance in bad weather, and looks.
We also think about sustainability and easy long-term maintenance. Let’s make your decking project a success!
What Is Composite Decking vs Merbau Timber?
Composite decking is made from a mix of wood fibres and recycled plastic. It forms a dense, durable board designed to mimic the look of natural timber.
And that's without the upkeep that turns weekends into endless maintenance sessions. Brands like Trex, ModWood, TimberTech, and NewTechWood are common across Albury.
They offer composite decking boards in various colours and finishes. Trust us, it won't fade faster than your enthusiasm for outdoor projects.
Merbau decking, on the other hand, is a hardwood timber species naturally resistant to rot and termites.
Makes it tougher than your average weekend warrior's DIY attempts. Sourced primarily from Southeast Asia, Merbau is a top choice for those who love the look and feel of real timber.
Its rich reddish-brown colour and striking grain patterns develop character over time, not just wither away.
Price Comparison: Composite vs Merbau in Albury
For Albury deck builders and decking specialists, cost is often a deciding factor that makes calculators work overtime and budgets weep.
Merbau is generally cheaper upfront, with prices around $60–$140 per square metre, depending on board quality and finish. It's like the starter relationship that looks affordable until you discover the hidden emotional costs.
Composite decking products can cost $120-$200 per square metre. They save on maintenance costs over time like a reliable friend who doesn't need constant attention to function properly.
While composite boards are more expensive upfront, you'll avoid ongoing costs. Decking oil, staining, or sanding turns your deck into a part-time job you didn't apply for.
With Merbau decking, you'll need to budget for sealing and re-oiling every 6–12 months. Depends on the sun exposure and wear.
This makes composite boards the high-maintenance option that is beautiful but needs constant care.
Maintenance and Durability in Albury’s Climate
Albury-Wodonga faces hot, dry summers, frosty winters, and the occasional storm. Nature here tests your deck's durability like it's own stress test for outdoor construction materials.
Composite Decking
Resistant to splintering, warping, and termite infestations that can turn wood into costly termite cafés.
Requires minimal maintenance beyond a regular hose down or mild soap wash, which is less demanding than most houseplants.
Engineered for structural integrity in both wet and dry conditions. It holds up without developing personality disorders like some timber options.
Merbau Timber
Naturally durable and dense like that reliable friend who never complains but needs regular check-ins.
Needs regular maintenance including oiling and cleaning. It prevents greying or cracking that makes your deck look prematurely aged.
Can suffer from tannin bleeding if not sealed properly. Especially on its first install, which creates stains that make your deck look like it's having a medical emergency.
Are you looking for minimal maintenance requirements that don't turn deck ownership into a weekend hobby? Composite decking wins hands down.
Do you mind a bit of upkeep and prefer a real wood feel that connects you with nature? Merbau still performs well in Albury's weather when properly cared for.
Sustainability and Environmental Impact
When it comes to environmental impact, the two materials differ significantly. It's like comparing a hybrid car to a vintage muscle car that guzzles fuel but looks amazing.
Composite Decking
Made from recycled materials like reclaimed wood dust and recycled plastic. This would otherwise be cluttering landfills or floating in oceans.
Requires no logging, making it an environmentally friendly choice. This allows trees to keep doing their carbon-absorbing magic.
Long-lasting, reducing the need for replacement and the guilt that comes with contributing to waste streams.
Merbau Timber
A renewable resource, but often imported from old-growth forests. It took decades to develop their impressive size and character.
Can contribute to more carbon emissions through harvesting and transport across continents. This part adds to its environmental footprint.
Look for FSC-certified Merbau if sustainability is a concern and you want timber with a proper environmental pedigree.
If sustainability is high on your priority list, consider composite decking. You'll also get function and aesthetics.
Composite decking, made from recycled plastic and wood fibers, helps you feel good about your choices. It means your deck isn't harming forests or adding to environmental issues.
Aesthetic Appeal: Natural Beauty vs Colour Control
Both materials offer visual appeal, just in different ways. It's like choosing between a vintage leather jacket and a perfectly tailored modern blazer.
Merbau Timber
Rich, warm tones with visible wood grain that tell a story of natural growth and character development.
Weathers to a soft silver-grey if left untreated. Which some people love and others view as premature aging that requires intervention.
Ideal for achieving a natural look that connects your deck to the surrounding landscape.
Composite Boards
Available in a wide range of pre-finished colours including greys, browns, and charcoals. These won't surprise you by changing their personality over time.
Doesn't require staining or sealing to maintain its appearance. Unlike the timber that demands regular beauty treatments.
More uniform in appearance, which is great for modern, minimalist decks. However, consistency matters more than organic variation.
If you love the natural beauty of timber and are happy to oil it like maintaining a prized possession, Merbau is a standout choice. Prefer a consistent, contemporary finish with minimal maintenance? Composite decking is your answer.
Local Availability in Albury-Wodonga
You don't need to travel far to find quality decking materials. That's a relief to hear for anyone who's ever tried to transport lengthy boards in a hatchback. Here are some local suppliers that are not beyong a cross-country road trip. They stock both Merbau and composite decking:
Dahlsens Albury-Wodonga
Supplies composite decking boards from major brands and hardwood decking options. Such as Merbau for those who appreciate having choices beyond "take it or leave it."
Located at Bennu Circuit, Albury. Here, knowledgeable staff can explain the differences without the sales-pitch gymnastics.
The Bunker Albury (Uptons)
Offers solid Merbau and their own UBT composite decking range. It's for customers who prefer supporting local businesses over massive chains.
Located at 521 Wagga Road, Lavington, with staff who understand regional building conditions.
Bunnings Warehouse (Albury & Wodonga)
Stocks pre-oiled Merbau and composite ranges like Ekodeck.
Ideal for small or DIY projects where you want to see materials in person before committing.
Are you a tradesperson who knows exactly what you need? Or a homeowner building a new deck while learning as you go?
These suppliers make it easy to compare materials in person rather than gambling on online descriptions.
Which One Should You Choose for Your Albury Deck?
Here's a quick summary of how composite decking vs Merbau stacks up. Like a head-to-head competition except both contestants have their strengths:
Do you value low maintenance that doesn't turn deck ownership into a weekend hobby? Need a long life and a contemporary finish that stays looking intentional?
Composite decking is ideal for busy homeowners who prefer enjoying their deck to constantly maintaining it.
Do you prefer a natural, high-end timber look and don't mind occasional upkeep that connects you with your outdoor space?
Merbau is still a tried-and-true favourite for Albury-Wodonga homes. Here, character and warmth matter more than convenience.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Merbau is cheaper to buy upfront. But composite may save more long term due to lower maintenance costs. It's like buying quality shoes that last versus cheap ones that fall apart after one decent rainstorm.
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Quality composite decking boards have slip-resistant texture. This makes them safe even after the rains. Unlike some timber surfaces that become slip-and-slide opportunities.
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With proper care that doesn't skip the regular maintenance schedule, a Merbau deck can last 15–25 years. Composite decks may last 25–30+ years with significantly less fussing required.
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Yes. Both Merbau and composite boards can be installed over treated pine subframes. This is standard practice. It won't need any custom engineering or complex fixes.
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Not always, which is the honest answer most suppliers won't volunteer. Ensure your Merbau is FSC-certified or sustainably sourced to reduce environmental impact. It'll help you sleep better knowing your deck isn't contributing to deforestation guilt.
Final Thoughts
Choosing between composite decking and Merbau comes down to your goals. Primarily cost, style, maintenance, and environmental impact.
Much like choosing between a reliable sedan and a classic car that needs weekend attention. Both have their place in Albury's decking scene, and local suppliers can help you find the right fit for your project.
Get in touch with your local decking expert or visit a supplier in Albury-Wodonga to view samples in person.
Because making decking decisions based on online photos is like choosing a haircut from a magazine.
Sometimes you need to see and feel the real thing before committing to a relationship that'll last decades. So settle the Composite Decking vs Merbau debate after much thought.
Greg Hair, owner of Slide Living, has over a decade of experience in delivering high-quality landscaping and outdoor living solutions across Albury-Wodonga and surrounding regions.
Known for his attention to detail and great customer care, Greg has transformed hundreds of properties, specialising in everything from fencing, decking and home irrigation.
SLIDE Living is fully licensed and insured, ensuring top-notch workmanship and customer satisfaction on every project.
