Composite or Timber – Which is Better?
When it comes to any kind of decorative or construction project, selecting the right material is essential. Different materials pose varying advantages in terms of durability, cost and physical appearance, so it’s useful to sit down and carefully consider your options before making any large purchases. Across the range of materials available for property development projects, composite and timber are popular candidates. While they may be frequently discussed together, the two actually pose very different advantages.
In this blog from NORclad, we will explore key differences between these two materials, offering advantages and disadvantages for both. If you’re looking for more information about the features and uses of timber, take a look at our blog. Posts include, ‘Is Timber Sourced Sustainably?, ‘How to Fire Protect Your Timber Cladding’ and ‘Best Timber Species for Decking’.
Cost
When discussing differences between these materials, a key factor to consider is cost. The price point for timber heavily depends on its species, with some varieties being more expensive than others. Softwood timber varieties are often valued more reasonably than hardwood varieties, resulting in their notable popularity for projects such as outdoor decking. In addition to offering a more reasonable price than hardwood alternatives, softwood timber can be notably less expensive than composite. However, when compared to composite, both varieties offer a more affordable solution to the majority of material needs. This may be of particular importance if your project requires a large amount of material!
Longevity & Maintenance
Another interesting difference between composite and timber is their strikingly different lifespans and maintenance needs. When maintained effectively through regular treating, timber can last a lifetime as a part of both indoor and outdoor projects. In contrast, composite requires less maintenance but only offers a lifespan of between 20-30 years. When it comes to maintaining timber cladding, enlisting the guidance of industry experts such as those at NORclad can help you maximise the lifespan of your investment and delay the need for a total refit. Our range of treatments help keep your timber in optimal condition, reducing its susceptibility to general and seasonal wear and tear.
Environmental Impact
Environmental impact is a real distinguishing feature when it comes to the timber vs composite debate. Across the wide variety of materials on the market, timber stands as one of the most environmentally friendly choices. Timber products, such as those available from NORclad, are responsibly sourced as to minimise environmental damage. In contrast, composite is often comprised of a combination of wood and plastic fibres.
As material solutions begin to centre more intensely around sustainability, the key components of composite limit its appeal. Although some composite suppliers do claim to offer solutions that are less harmful to the environment, the environmental impact of plastic production remains a concern. In addition to limiting the environmental appeal of composite, its plastic contents also make it more susceptible to scratching, placing a question mark over the largely appreciated ‘low maintenance’ of composite.
Strength
Albeit a more natural solution, timber boasts a surprising degree of strength. Well treated timber offers a structurally sound material solution that can be used for a variety of purposes. On the other hand, composite solutions lack structural integrity and are likely to need supplementary support, especially when intended for use in harsh environments. The need for additional support could also have a knock-on effect on the cost of a project. If composite requires additional material to be used effectively, additional outgoings are guaranteed.
Appearance
As with any visual project, personal preferences will always have a role to play. Due to its more artificial composition, composite can be sourced in a wide variety of colours and finishes, making it ideal for bolder, more colourful projects. On the other hand, timber boasts a charming natural feel that is lacked by composite, albeit in more limited varieties. Speaking of colour and finish, composite offers a consistent, highly aesthetic material solution – with each panel offering consistency in texture and colour. While these advantages may maximise the appeal of composite, the rustic feel of timber maintains popularity for both indoor and outdoor projects. Designers looking to foreground a natural, earthy feel are likely to opt for timber over composite solutions – but it’s all down to preference!
Which is Better?
Upon surveying the advantages and drawbacks for timber and composite, it is apparent that both options offer appealing features. Albeit a lower maintenance option, the reduced lifespan and increased price of composite can make it a higher risk option for any project. In addition, the hidden expenses attached to composite can generate some costly surprises along the road post-installation.
When it comes to timber, maintenance and high-quality sourcing is key. With the help of industry experts such as those at NORclad, customers are offered peace of mind that unanticipated expenses will be kept to a minimum. The rustic aesthetic of timber is also timeless and likely to maintain design appeal long after installation.
Timber Solutions with NORclad
Here at NORclad, we have over 40 years of experience in manufacturing an extensive range of timber cladding solutions. Our wide-ranging industry knowledge offers you peace of mind that you are receiving the best guidance for your individual needs. For more information on our cladding and maintenance services, get in touch today. Our friendly team are on hand to deliver an accurate (and free!), no obligation quote for all your timber cladding needs.
