What are average composite decking prices?

A space to socialise, play, or relax? A composite deck can provide it all! But how much does composite decking cost to be installed? Composite decking costs range from $100 to $300 per m2. This can still go up depending on the size, type of materials you’re using, the complexity of the project, and labour.

Composite decking costs per m2 can quickly blow out and exceed your allotted budget. To avoid this, we have made a comprehensive price guide to help you learn more about composite decking installation costs.

Factors that affect composite decking costs

Having a safe and peaceful space to unwind after a long day gives numerous benefits to your well-being. But how do composite decking vs wood costs compare? Let’s first look into the factors that affect the cost to build a composite deck. 

• Size of deck. It’s all about the size. Bigger decks would naturally take longer to finish, while smaller decks can be done faster. Bigger decks will also consume more materials. Hence, they’ll be more expensive. For reference, composite decking around 15 sq. m. would start at $1,500 while a 30 sq. m. decking could reach up to $3,000. If you need help preparing your area before installing your new deck or cleaning it up after the job, this will add up to the costs.
• Materials. Composite decking prices vary depending on the type of material used. The top three types of composite decking are wood plastic composite (WPC), capped composite, and PVC composite. Uncapped composite is the cheapest type while PVC is the most expensive. Despite the pricing differences, all three materials offer an excellent alternative to wood or timber decking due to their durability, convenience, and resistance to pests and moisture. Suppliers also provide a warranty that could last from 10 to 25 years, ensuring the high-quality build of their materials!
• Location. Composite decking prices per square metre also differs depending on the location. For bigger cities, expect to pay more due to higher operating costs. If you live in a hard to reach location in the suburbs, this might also incur an additional fee that will cover transportation and gas.
• Labour. For a composite decking project, labour is usually included in the total per m2 cost. The duration would depend on the size of your deck. To give a quick estimate, a 15 square metre space can be finished in one day, while bigger spaces can take up to three days.

Different types of composite decking materials and their costs

When it comes to composite decking, you can pick from three different types of materials. Costs usually range from $10 to $22 per board depending on the brand. The most popular brands available are Trex, FutureWood, DuraLife, ModWood, and Ekodeck. To help you decide the right material for your home, we’ve listed the advantages of each material and its costs below.

Capped composite

With its outer shell that provides continuous protection and high durability, capped composite is one of the most popular options for composite decking. This is a good choice if you want a longer lasting material that can withstand decades of high traffic.

Uncapped composite

As the name implies, uncapped composite does not have an outer protective layer making it prone to fading and discolouration. This material is ideal for buyers who would like to save up on costs while also looking for a more sustainable option than wood material.

PVC composite

Of all composite decking materials, PVC composite is the most expensive. Despite being the most expensive composite decking type, PVC composite remains competitive to other wood types like Ipe which has higher costs. However, some deck making companies have discontinued PVC composite due to performance issues especially during extreme hot and dry weather in Australia.

Other factors that affect composite decking costs

Aside from the factors mentioned above, other costs might come up while installing your new decking. If you need help in preparing your space by levelling out the ground, this will cost around $500 to $6,000. If you have an existing deck and want this removed, this will cost around $40 to $500.
After installation, you might also want to beautify your backyard further through installing artificial grass and outdoor lights. Artificial grass costs $30 to $50 per m2 while an outdoor light costs around $30 to $150.

Lastly, if you plan to do the DIY route, be prepared to have installation materials like decking posts, balustrades, composite oil, sealants, joists, and pins. If you don’t have the time or energy to purchase and learn how to use these materials, you can always hire a decking fitter to install your new decking for you. This will save you supply costs while also ensuring that your deck is made to last.

Benefits of installing a composite deck

Before calculating composite decking installation costs, why install one in the first place? Installing a composite deck has numerous benefits.

• Long-lasting material. Composite decking materials are long-lasting and can withstand the test of time. Unlike wood, it’s not prone to rotting, moulding, or insect infestation. It can fare well with changing seasons and harsher weather without splitting or cracking.
• Low maintenance. Apart from washing with soapy water once a year, a composite deck requires almost no maintenance. No need for pressure washing, scrubbing, or staining.
• Aesthetic appeal. One benefit of installing a composite deck is its aesthetic appeal. It looks very similar to natural wood without having to cut down trees. It’s also available in various shades and patterns and maintains its colour for decades, even when exposed to long hours of sunlight.

Ready to build your new composite deck? Skip scouring the web for composite decking cost calculators! Put up a task on Airtasker and get a personalised quote from a nearby decking specialist in minutes!