Artificial Lumber vs Composite Decking: What’s the Difference

The Real Wood vs Artificial Lumber

Synthetic lumber or artificial lumber is a product manufactured using recycled plastics or other substances that resemble natural wood. It is tough, weather-resistant, and needs minimal maintenance. Artificial lumber is also utilized as fencing, decking, garden furniture, and outdoor structures, where longevity and low maintenance are the main considerations

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What is Composite Decking

Composite decking is a mixture of wood fibers and recycled plastics, producing a strong and diverse decking material. It has been created to give the appearance of wood, but with the added benefit of resisting rot, warping, and insect attack. Composite decking boards are also suitable for developing patios, terraces or pathways that need aesthetics coupled with durability.

Key Differences

Appearance: Composite decking can be made to look like natural wood with very real graining, and artificial lumber can be made to look synthetic, but high-quality models are highly believable.

Durability: Both of them are durable, but the composite decking is directly designed to serve decking surface, which makes it a bit less vulnerable to heavy foot traffic. Artificial lumber is also more sturdy and fits better in structural use, such as fencing or raised beds in gardens.

Maintenance: Both need little care; however, artificial lumber might need cleaning after some time with water and a small amount of detergent. Composite decking is also washable and can be enjoyed with the use of special cleaners to ensure that its color does not fade away with time.

Price: The prices are comparable with composite decking, being commonly more costly in the short term. Artificial lumber is a relatively inexpensive alternative to structural and ornamental projects that do not need decking-style finishes.

Which Should You Choose

In the event that you are interested in having a beautiful and low-maintenance decking area, then composite decking boards are preferable. Artificial lumber can be a better choice in case you have to use it for outdoor furniture, fencing, and structural purposes. Several homeowners have a combination of both to have a complete outdoor solution.

Final Thoughts

The knowledge of how to differentiate between artificial and composite decking is useful in making the most suitable choice for your garden project. The two materials are environmentally friendly, low-maintenance, and durable, and would be very significant to the modern-day UK outdoor spaces.

Explore our premium Composite Decking Collection to find the perfect boards for your garden.

If you want to explore other outdoor options such as fencing, paving slabs, or patio slabs, check our full collections here.