Composite decking continues to evolve, offering a range of options to suit different budgets and styles. Whether you’re looking for an affordable solution like NewTechWood Avenue or Eva-Last I-Series or exploring composite options that replicate hardwood species like Blackbutt and QLD Spotted Gum, there’s something for every project. Designed for the Australian climate—ranging from coastal salt spray to harsh sun exposure—composite decking provides a low-maintenance, durable alternative to traditional timber.
Capped vs. Uncapped Composite Decking
Most composite decking today is capped, enhancing durability, fade resistance, and extending warranties for up to 25 years—making it ideal for Australian outdoor living. However, uncapped options like ModWood Natural Grain are still available, along with specialised alternatives such as ModWood Marina for marine environments and ModWood Flame Shield (BAL40 rated) for fire-prone areas.
When choosing decking, consider factors such as appearance, budget, and intended use to find the best fit. Below is a list of capped and uncapped composite decking options available at NHS, each suited to different needs.
Capped Options:
| ModWood XTG – The capped version of ModWood, offering a 25-year warranty and improved resistance to the elements. |  |
| Eva-Last Pioneer – Mimics Blackbutt and QLD Spotted Gum for a premium natural timber look, suitable for high-end residential projects with a 30-year warranty. |  |
| Eva-Last I-Series – A budget-friendly capped product offering great durability, ideal for those wanting affordability without compromising on quality with a 25-year warranty. |  |
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NewTechWood (NTW) – Available in three styles all with 25-year warranty:
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| Trex Transcend – A highly durable capped product with a 50-year warranty, making it one of the longest-lasting options available. |  |
| Millboard – Unique characteristics including enhanced grain and weathered oak finishes, lost-head technology (hiding screws), and no ground clearance requirements, making it highly versatile.25-year warranty. |  |
Uncapped Options:
| ModWood Natural Grain – Standard uncapped composite decking, requiring additional maintenance to withstand the elements. |  |
| ModWood Flame Shield – BAL40-rated for fire-prone areas, making it a great choice for bushfire zones, with a 10-year warranty. |  |
| ModWood Marina – Designed for marine environments, such as jetties and boardwalks, also with a 10-year warranty. |  |
Click here to see the full range of composite decking options available at NHS.
Additional Features and Considerations
- Ground Clearance – Some composite decking requires ground clearance, while others can be installed with minimal or no clearance. This is particularly important when working on renovations or homes with limited subfloor space.
- Screening & Castellation – Many brands, including NTW, offer screening and castellation options to create contemporary facades and stylish outdoor spaces. Screening is increasingly popular for privacy, shade, and aesthetics in outdoor entertainment areas.
- Aluminium Decking – Decodeck provides a non-combustible alternative suitable for Flame Zone-rated areas, available in narrow (94mm) or wide (134mm) boards, with a 10-year warranty. A joiner system also helps reduce wastage, making it an efficient choice for large-scale projects.
- Special Order Brands – Additional brands like Apex Plus, Azek, TimberTech, and Trex Transcend Lineage (which features heat-mitigating technology to reduce surface heat in direct sunlight) are available by special order.
Architectural Enhancements
LifeSpan Architectural Beams complement composite decking, offering the durability and prefinished quality expected from composite materials while delivering the natural beauty of timber. These beams are perfect for pergolas, feature walls, and architectural facades, giving projects a modern, high-end finish while maintaining longevity.
Read more about Lifespan Architectural Beams here
Storage & Maintenance
Composite decking requires proper care and storage to maintain its quality before installation. Store boards flat and undercover, away from direct sunlight and moisture, to prevent warping and expansion. Properly spacing and fixing composite boards ensures long-term stability and performance.
Read more about on-site storage recommendations here:
Storage of Composite Products on your site - News
Timber Alternative
While composite decking has come a long way in replicating the look and feel of real timber, there are still instances where natural timber may be the best choice. Australian hardwoods such as Spotted Gum and Blackbutt remain popular for their durability, fire resistance, and unique aesthetic appeal. Understanding the differences between composite and natural timber can help in selecting the best option for your project.
Click here if you want to explore the full range of decking available from NHS
Shop Decking with NHS
At NHS, we stock a comprehensive range of composite decking products, and special order an even broader range, catering to all budgets and project requirements. Whether you’re after a cost-effective solution or a premium aesthetic, we can help you find the right fit. Visit our website or drop by one of our stores in the Newcastle region to explore your options and get expert advice from our team.