Hi ladyrob1, ours are over a concrete patio slab that was tiled - it's a1970s villa. So they have been pretty much just plonked down over the patio tiles, but timber border has been put around the edges. We've only just bought and have no historical information about what was done and when, but the patio/deck is exposed to easterly sun and is looking pretty weathered - but I'd say it hasn't been maintained at all since it was installed. I like the look of it, and think if it's regularly oiled from new, it will probably stand up well to weather.

About your question about sourcing some of your own internal fittings. It is best you discuss this with the builder early on. Usually, the builder's contract will specify an allowance for particular fixtures. However, some may specify actual brand and model of fittings ie taps, toilets, sinks, etc in their quote, and they may or may not allow you to vary this. IF you are happy with those specified fixtures and you think the allowance amount is reasonable, then you can go with it. Otherwise, any changes or variances need to be discussed with builder, and it is very important this be discussed upfront and before any contract is signed. Some building contracts may also disallow some variances. In any event, carefully read the contract so you completely understand what you are agreeing to, and discuss any and all parts where you are not in agreement so these issues can be ironed out. Also, and this is my own experience and opinion, but I advise specifying in the contract the completion date AND if the build is not completed on time then what happens (consider that you may be paying interest on your mortgage, be financing a bridging mortgage, etc. and/or you may also have already sold your home and then have to pay rent until the build is finished). If you are in agreement with builder to source some of the internal fittings yourself, there are any number of suppliers and sources to investigate, and this might be a good way to keep your budget in check. There will be Houzzers who are experienced at this and can provide you with ideas. Just keep in mind that you will have to have all fittings READY and ON SITE when the tradesmen require them, otherwise you will be holding up the build and that is going to cost YOU money.

there are so many on the market. I have used a few of them. Where will you be using it? This might be the determining factor. For example Ekodeck is very good in a high moisture area. ( I used this for an internal courtyard with no direct sun and water issues) and it is performing well. Colour and the texture of board will be a factor to consider. Dont be scared to get a few samples and lay them in the area that the deck will be built to see how it looks at different times of the day. Are you looking for top fixing ( where you can see the screws) or concealed fixing? ( boards are layed on a clip track or have a small clip that screws down between the boards and locks into a groove in the edge of the board. Something to remember that all composite decking will need specific gaps to allow for movement. Failing to provide these could void any warranty. The good thing about composite decking is the will usually come in 5.4m lengths meaning you can sometimes get away with no joins which looks fantastic. Another way to avoid joins is by using a breaker board. Can you let me know a little bit more of what you are looking for and where it will be used and I would be happy to let you know my thoughts. Also the cost can vary quite a bit depending on the supplier. I can let you know where to get better prices.

I have just gone through the same decision making process. I rejected the composites due to cost, scratching, smell, and how much heat they emit. I rejected merbau due to leaching of the tannins, unsustainable harvesting practices (despite what is preached), and the threat to orangutang habitats. I chose spotted gum for looks (more brown than red), reasonable cost, easy maintenance, and it is Australian grown and produced. There will be those who disagree with my decision, but at the end of the day I wanted a reasonably priced but attractive, durable, and low maintenance decking board. It takes longer to lay the hardwoods such as spotted gum as they have to be pre-drilled, but the total extra for a 5m x 5m deck was $1000 for labour / timber compared to merbau. A quick oil once a year is the only maintenance. Pinterest is a good resource for how they all look once down.