Modern Classic and Premium are two distinct composite decking ranges, and the difference goes beyond colour.
Modern Classic uses capped composite construction with an additional polymer outer layer, while Premium focuses on natural grain textures and higher-end finishes. Price positioning, surface design and the final look of the deck all need to be considered when comparing the two.
Modern Classic vs Premium: The Key Differences
| Feature | Modern Classic | Premium |
| Product positioning | Mid-range | High-end |
| Surface design | Capped composite | Natural grain textures |
| Main feature | Additional polymer outer layer | Timber-inspired texture and finish |
| Appearance | Sleek and contemporary | More natural and refined |
| Product choice | 4 products | 10 products |
| Design focus | Clean, modern outdoor spaces | Detailed, timber-inspired outdoor spaces |
The important point is that these ranges are not simply different colour collections. They are designed around different surface characteristics and visual priorities.
1. Price: Modern Classic vs Premium
Price is one of the practical differences to consider.
The existing range comparison positions Modern Classic as a mid-range option, while Premium sits at the high-end of the composite decking range. However, the current product and category pages do not publish fixed dollar prices for each board. This means an exact cost-per-square-metre comparison should be based on a current quote rather than an assumed price difference.
The useful distinction is therefore:
- Modern Classic: positioned between the entry-level and high-end ranges.
- Premium: positioned as the higher-end option, with greater emphasis on finish and visual detail.
For a project where the budget needs to be balanced against the desired surface finish, comparing the actual quote for the required quantity is more useful than looking at the range name alone.
2. Surface Construction: What Separates the Two?
The biggest technical distinction is the way the board surface is designed.
Modern Classic
Modern Classic composite decking is capped composite decking. An additional polymer sleeve forms a protective outer layer around the board.
The range describes this construction as providing enhanced resistance to moisture, stains and wear.
This makes the capped surface a central part of what differentiates Modern Classic.
Premium
Premium composite decking takes a different approach. Its defining feature is the use of natural grain textures and premium finishes to create a more timber-like appearance.
So the comparison is straightforward:
Modern Classic focuses on its capped surface construction, while Premium focuses more heavily on grain, texture and finish.
3. How Do They Look Once Installed?
The difference becomes more noticeable when considering the finished deck rather than the individual board.
Modern Classic has a cleaner and more contemporary design direction. It can work well where the decking needs to complement a modern exterior without becoming overly visually detailed.
Premium has more emphasis on grain and surface character. The combination of texture and colour is intended to reproduce the visual appeal associated with natural timber.
This means the choice can affect the overall character of the outdoor area:
Modern Classic → cleaner and more streamlined
Premium → more textured and timber-inspired
For homeowners comparing composite decking Melbourne options, seeing the actual colours and surface finishes alongside the rest of the property can make the difference between the two ranges much easier to assess.
4. Product Choice: How Much Selection Do You Get?
The current Premium Range contains 10 composite decking products:
The current Modern Classic collection contains four products:
The difference is not simply the number of colours available. The two ranges give you different product options, surface appearances, textures and finishes.
When comparing them, look at the individual product characteristics rather than treating each range as a single colour collection. This is particularly important when the decking needs to match the style, materials and overall appearance of the outdoor space.
5. Modern Classic vs Premium for Different Outdoor Designs
The two ranges can suit different design directions.
Modern Classic for a Contemporary Design
Modern Classic is suited to outdoor spaces where clean lines and a streamlined appearance are important.
It can work alongside modern architectural finishes, simple landscaping and contemporary outdoor furniture without making the decking surface the main visual feature.
Premium for a Timber-Inspired Design
Premium composite decking is more suitable when the decking itself needs to contribute texture and visual character.
Its natural grain textures and timber-like finishes can work particularly well where the outdoor area is designed around a warmer or more detailed material appearance.
6. Which One Makes More Sense for Your Budget?
The price difference should be considered alongside what you are actually getting from each range.
If you want capped composite construction but do not necessarily need the broader range of premium finishes, Modern Classic provides a more focused option.
If the appearance of the decking is a major part of the project and you want more choice in grain-inspired finishes, Premium provides a wider product selection.
Rather than comparing price alone, consider the additional amount you are spending against the specific finish you want to achieve.
For projects looking for a factory-direct composite decking supplier, comparing the available range, finish and current quote together can provide a clearer picture of the overall value.
Modern Classic vs Premium: Which Should You Choose?
There is no need to treat the two ranges as interchangeable.
Modern Classic is the more focused option for buyers looking for capped composite construction, a sleek appearance and a mid-range position.
Premium is positioned at the higher end, with more product choices and greater emphasis on natural grain textures and refined, timber-inspired finishes.
If price and capped construction are central to the decision, start with Modern Classic. If the surface appearance, grain detail and wider choice of finishes are more important, compare the Premium options.
The most useful way to make the final decision is to compare the actual price, surface finish and sample appearance for your specific project rather than choosing based on the range name alone.
0430 308 829
James@superdeck.com.au