The idea of upgrading your outdoor area with composite decking is exciting; however, the market is full of cheap imitations. With decking season well underway in Melbourne, many homeowners and builders are after stylish yet low-maintenance solutions. Not all composite decking, however, is manufactured equal.
Unfortunately, some composite decking in Melbourne deals that seem too good to be true are just scams. Normally, when there is demand, low-quality products or counterfeits flood the market. If one isn’t aware of their choices, the result might be warped boards, faded color, or worse-replacing everything.
Here’s how to avoid getting scammed and ensure you buy genuine, high-quality decking from trusted suppliers in Melbourne.
- Know what real composite decking looks and feels like.
Let’s get down to the basics: Composite decking is normally manufactured from a mix of recycled wood fibers and plastic polymers. This mix gives it a natural-wood appearance with added durability, weather resistance, and color retention-all features that are perfect for Melbourne’s changing climate.
Here are some signs of genuine composite decking:
Coarseness and color are consistent over the entire board.
A solid, sturdy feel-not hollow or overly lightweight
– A capped surface that resists moisture and UV damage
– Reputable brands are usually backed by 15- to 25-year warranties
If what you’re being sold feels brittle, thin, or looks like cheap plastic with wood stickers, the chances are that it is fake or of extremely poor quality.
- Watch Out for Pricing and Promotion Red Flags
We know that everybody loves a bargain, but the cheapest decking will often be more expensive over the longer term.
If a supplier is advertising composite decking prices in Melbourne that are significantly cheaper than others, ask why. Are they using virgin plastic with no recycled content? Is it untested, un-certified, or made overseas with no quality control?
Here are some warning signs:
– No physical address or showroom
No customer reviews or testimonials
– Pressure to buy “today only” for a “special deal”
Vague or missing product specifications
A good supplier will gladly explain what you are buying and why the price is worth it.
- Ask for Certifications, Not Just Sales Talk
Every decking supplier is going to tell you that their product is the best. But how do you know? That’s where independent certifications come in.
In Australia, the genuine composite decking products should comply with the key safety and performance requirements including:
– AS/NZS 4586 for slip resistance
BAL (Bushfire Attack Level) ratings, particularly relevant to Victoria
Warranties and compliance documents from the manufacturer
If the supplier won’t provide documentation-or dodges the question-find another supplier. At Tuff Deck, we offer all technical data sheets and certification information so you buy with confidence.
- Vet the Supplier Like You’re Hiring a Builder
Just as you wouldn’t hire a tradesperson without checking their license and references, the same applies to your decking supplier.
If you choose to go through composite decking suppliers in Melbourne, ask yourself:
– How long have you been in business? Experience counts.
– Can I pay a visit to your showroom or warehouse? Seeing the product helps avoid disappointment.
– Do you provide installation guidance or connect with local installers? A good supplier supports you beyond the sale.
– Past projects or actual customer reviews, please. Nothing instills trust like genuine feedback.
Companies like Tuff Deck pride themselves on quality, customer support, and, importantly, transparency-all things that matter when you are investing in your home.
- Test Before You Invest: Samples Are Key
A photo on a website can’t show you how the board feels underfoot, or how well it stands up to heat, or if the color looks natural in sunlight. That’s why you should always ask for a sample pack before committing.
Use your sample to test:
Texture and slip resistance when wet Color tone in natural light – How easy it is to scratch or dent If the supplier refuses to send samples or charges you just to look, consider that a warning sign. Don’t Let a Cheap Deck Cost You Thousands A poorly made deck can sag, warp, get water damage, or even require a complete teardown in just a few years. That’s not only a big inconvenience; it’s very costly. Spending a bit more upfront with a trusted supplier saves you time, money, and stress.
At Tuff Deck, we supply the best quality composite decking available that can be trusted by homeowners. It meets the Australian standards for long-term durability. With the wide variety of styles and colors for every project, we proudly remain one of the most recommended decking suppliers in Melbourne. With competitive, transparent composite decking prices and expert support, you also won’t have to second-guess your choice.
Conclusion:
Buy Smart, Build Smarter Composite decking can be a fantastic investment, but composite decking done wrong can be a very costly mistake. Go armed with knowledge and ask all of the right questions when you buy from a reliable source. Want expert advice or a free sample delivered to your door? Come visit us and find out why Melbourne home owners and tradespeople repeatedly choose us for quality, peace of mind, and amazing results.