Decking & Cladding
WoodVance composite decking vs timber — what actually matters in VIC
Aug 2026 · 6 min read · by the MEG Outdoor Living team
Every Victorian backyard eventually asks the same question: deck in timber, or in composite? The answer isn't about looks — modern WPC decking like WoodVance is hard to tell from timber at a glance. It's about what happens after year one.
What VIC weather actually does to each
| Timber decking | WoodVance WPC composite | |
|---|---|---|
| Splinters | Yes, increasingly with age | Splinter-free — barefoot and pet friendly |
| UV / fading | Grey and silver over time | Co-extruded UV layer keeps colour |
| Maintenance | Sand, oil or stain every 1-2 years | Hose and clean — no sealing |
| Moisture & rot | Risks rot in wet spots | Water and termite resistant |
| Warranty | Usually none beyond materials | Up to 25 years (WoodVance decking) |
Why co-extrusion matters
WoodVance uses dual-sided co-extrusion — a tough outer shell over a recycled wood-plastic core. That outer layer is what carries the UV protection, moisture resistance and colour stability. It's the difference between a deck that fades patchy after two summers and one that still reads as new at year ten.
Picking the right series
WoodVance offers three decking series plus cladding, so the right choice depends on the job:
- Elite — PVC premium finish where budget allows the top end.
- Ultra — double-sided texture, six styles, the best all-rounder for most backyards.
- Flex — arch-shaped structure, great for new builds and renovations.
- Eco — two-colour economy option, 138×23mm, where cost performance leads.
- Cladding Series A / B / C — 4-hole, 5-hole or irregular designs for façades and feature walls.
All carry R11 & P5 anti-slip ratings and are made from 100% recyclable materials — relevant if you're specifying for BASIX or Green Star-conscious projects.
Feel it before you commit
Colour and texture are impossible to judge from a screen. That's why we send free sample boxes — feel the double-sided texture in real light, compare colours against your house, then decide. Request a free sample box and we'll get one to your door.