We’re having a similar dilemma so keen to hear everyone’s views out there. Millboard is apparently the best for a large uncovered deck, but incredibly expensive. Timber requires so much ongoing maintenance.

We have duralife grey garappa decking and we love it.

Yes there are a lot of composite boards out there but some look really fake so will need to be careful. Also I don’t like where they have to occasionally put a screw in it sort of lifts around the screw.

Only thing I can suggest, is not getting glossy tiles as although they look amazing, they are so easy to slip on.

If you decide to go with Composite Decking, do your research. Get some samples, check warranties, reviews etc.

Normal hardwood decking is lower cost to purchase than most composites. However, although the initial cost of wood is less, composite usually ends up paying for itself within 2-3 years when including the cost of annual maintenance. Oiling, staining etc.

Check out NexGEN's Composite Decking - https://nexgendecking.com.au/products/select-capped-composite-decking

Backed with a lifetime performance warranty and 50 year stain and fade warranty.

A friend of mine has laid down Bamboo Decking from House of Bamboo. Have to say it looks great, easy to lay and comes with a wide width and various finishes or natural so you can add your own flair. Time will tell, but as it is an engineered product (think like Weathertex) it shouldn't warp, swell or cup. worth grabbing some samples in the least.

Ok thanks Iain, will look into it

I'm wondering about the weight difference for a deck versus a tiled balcony? So you have nothing at the moment, you're talking about building a structure from scratch to attach to upstairs and replace a window with a door, is that the scenario?

Yes that’s it. (Except no windows there to replace). I’m also wondering about the weight and if it’s heaps more expensive.

Have you considered using an aluminium deck? :)

DecoDeck combines the warm, natural appearance of real timber with the superior strength and durability of aluminium.

Available in 6.5 metre decking boards, DecoDeck uses a concealed clip and screw system for fast and easy DIY installation. The strong aluminium boards mean joists can be spaced up to 600 mm apart, and the deck joiner allows decking boards to be joined between joists, minimising wastage!

https://www.decorativeimaging.com.au/building-products/decodeck/

DecoDeck · More Info

DecoDeck · More Info

Murrays Beach, NSW · More Info

Deco, What is the temp variation between timber, aluminium and plastic composites?

Since no-one answered Kerri's post, I imagine a tiled balcony would be more expensive than a deck, and how much more expensive would vary depending on choice of tiles, that's my guess anyway. Another variable would be balustrades.

Yes, i'd like to know the price difference so I could say if it were double the price then it wouldn't be worth it. The tiles I like so far are around the $40 sq metre.

Thanks Kate, yes we will be having a roof as the western sun makes it too hot in that area in summer.

Hi Kate,

We currently doing testing on temperature variations with different materials but DecoDeck is definitely one of the coolest decking products on the market. Aluminium is a very good conductor of heat and always adjusts to the ambient temperature. Heat passes through DecoDeck evenly, keeping it at a comfortable temperature to walk on with bare feet.