Composite Deck

Is Composite Decking Termite Proof?

One of the most dreaded concerns of Australian homeowners is termites. Termites, often referred to as “white ants,” are not actually ants. Their preferred food source is timber, which includes wood decking. 

Their voracious appetites produce catastrophic consequences.

Australia has about 350 kinds of termites.

Unfortunately, the label “highly termite resistant” for building materials does not provide lifetime defence. Furthermore, the ongoing maintenance required for even very robust goods still takes a lot of time and money.

How to Prevent Expensive Termite Damage?

It is evident that in a nation where termites inflict such substantial financial losses, it is in our best interest to identify methods of mitigating this issue. In this blog, we answer the following question: Is composite decking resistant to termites? In that event, could it be the solution to Australia’s termite problem?

In Australia, certain regions pose a greater hazard than others, and the likelihood of sharing a zone with termites increases as the temperature and humidity increase. 

Termites have a preference for delicate timbers and decaying wood, and they thrive in damp, humid environments. It is advisable to store wood log masses, unused deck planks, and any stray timber from leftover constructions at a distance from the house. Additionally, do not store them under the house if it is on platforms.

Other well-known timber destroyers in Australia include wood borers, wood wasps, carpenter bees, and powder post beetles, in addition to termites, which like to devour our dwellings and timber decking. But it is evident that termites are the most prevalent “timber terrorists.”

Termite-Proof or Termite-Resistant?

The most pest-resistant natural timbers that are appropriate for decking in Australia are as follows:

  • Jarrah
  • Blackbutt
  • Grey and Red Ironbark
  • Stringybark
  • Gum that has been spotted
  • Tallowwood
  • Pine that has been treated (refer to the note below)
  • Merbau

Furthermore, although you may believe that treated pine is the more durable of the aforementioned alternatives, it is important to note that the termite treatment does not always penetrate the core, providing a secure refuge for our little white timber eaters who will gladly nibble their way through the untouched part.

These timbers are classified as termite-resistant, but they are not entirely termite-proof.

For instance, termites will find any timber that has been in close proximity to the ground, particularly if it is already decaying, to be exceedingly appealing.

Safeguarding Your Natural Timber Deck – Time and Time Again

In summary, the notion of termite-resistant natural wood is precisely that: resistant. No, it is not termite-proof. In Australia, it is imperative to conduct regular inspections and treatments, as even these treated timbers are not indestructible.

Deck layout recommendations and information regarding termite barriers can be obtained from a licenced pest controller in your town. But in order to safeguard your natural wood decking for the long term, it is imperative that you continue to apply specialised coatings, sealants, and white ant remedies. 

Regular professional inspections are required throughout the lifespan of the deck if you reside in a high-risk area. This is not an inexpensive option; however, it is likely less costly than the cost of replacing an entire deck prematurely due to structural damage.

Still, there is an alternative to a metal, concrete, or paved deck if you are determined to have a timber-look deck.

Why do termites seem to dislike Composite decking?

Well, composite decking is composed of 60% recycled dense wood fibres, which the termites would typically find appetising. However, it is also combined with 35% high-grade recycled HDPE plastics and special bonding agents, which the termites now find unpleasant. 

Afterwards, it is protected on all sides with a special engineering grade polymer that contains additives that have an extremely low water penetration and are resistant to termites. 

By employing a co-extrusion procedure, this protective shield is heat-pressed onto the core, forming an impermeable barrier against moisture, ultra-violet, pathogens, and insects, including our wood-loving little companions.

Composite timber decking is not a favourite of termites. It may resemble wood, but it is not on the menu and has an entirely different flavour.

Feel free to reach out to our team at Superdeck for additional information if you are interested in a product that resembles timber but is more durable, requires no time-consuming or expensive maintenance, and is resistant to termites.