Upfront quotes can look similar—until labor cycles, cleaning, heat complaints, and slip audits arrive. Is the cheapest
board still cheapest after ten summers?
Composite Decking Price vs Timber & Pavers: 10-Year TCO Explained
TCO Framework (why upfront price isn’t the whole story)
Materials
Boards/tiles, clips, trims, subframes/pedestals. Are edges and picture frames already counted?
Labor
Prep, falls to drains, layout, cuts, lifts to roof. Who pays for weather downtime?
Lifecycle
Cleaning cycles, refinish schedules, slip audits, complaint handling. Any allowance for replacements?
Primer on why lifecycle beats sticker shock: life-cycle cost.
10-Year Cost Matrix (indicative levers)
| Factor | Composite Decking | Timber Decking | Pavers (Rooftop) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Surface aging | ASA cap slows ΔE; matte hides films better. | Oiling/sanding cycles to keep tone; checking at end grain. | Color stable; efflorescence possible; grout/joint weeds. |
| Wet slip over time | Texture + neutral-pH cleaning; method must be named. | Roughness changes with weather; algae if shade/drainage poor. | Good when clean; moss/film in shade unless scrubbed. |
| Heat in sun | Color/finish driven; light/mid matte runs cooler. | Dark oils run hot too; shade helps both. | Thermal mass heats up; shade critical on roofs. |
| Subframe/weight | Light; rails + pedestals over membranes. | Medium; timber joists; watch ventilation. | Heavy; slab capacity and logistics dominate. |
| Maintenance hours | Wash + annual deep clean. | Refinish cycles + closures. | Scrub/joint care; occasional re-level. |
| Typical 10-yr risk | Blocked drains, poor ventilation, wrong texture for wet areas. | Finish failure, rot at details, slip complaints in shade. | Waterproofing punctures, heavy logistics, settlement. |
Slip method context: UK HSE pendulum overview here.
Which Wins Where?
- Balconies/rooftops: composite typically wins on weight, drainage access, and maintenance downtime—unless slab capacity laughs at pavers’ weight?
- Pool decks: composite with matte/open-grain texture and named wet slip method. Will dark/ glossy be worth the complaints?
- Ground patios: pavers suit hard landscapes; composite still wins if tree litter + shade need easier cleaning.
- Timber feel: choose shaded courtyards with a realistic oiling schedule—will the operator really close weekly in peak season?
Spec Notes that Change the Math
- Declare method + texture: Wet PTV/DCOF or DIN 51097 on the exact emboss supplied.
- Color & heat: light/mid matte tones usually reduce heat-driven complaints.
- Subframe: rails over pedestals; keep 1–2% falls; don’t box in drains; perimeter restraint for wind.
- Ventilation: leave ≥50 mm airspace; fascia needs breathability.
- Maintenance contract: neutral-pH cleaning cadence written into the SLA.
See product options: Ecosolid Decking · case photos in the Project Gallery · policies at Why CopoSurface.
FAQ (things buyers almost ask)
Are big-box composite boards cheaper over 10 years?
Sometimes upfront, but spans, caps, and texture choices differ. Compare datasheets and slip method results, not just shelf price.
Can I switch texture after award?
Expect different slip results. Lock texture + method in the tender to avoid re-testing and claims.
Is paver heat always worse?
Thermal mass is real; shade usually fixes more than brand does. Consider pergolas/trees before color fights.
