Introduction
Planning a new deck for your garden or outdoor project? Choosing the right decking material is key to achieving a stunning look and long-lasting durability.
At MSS Timber Merchants, we supply both traditional timber decking and advanced composite decking solutions like Oakio IniWood and Oakio Proshield — giving you the best of both worlds.
This guide covers everything you need to know about decking in 2025: timber vs composite, product options, and maintenance tips.
1. Why Decking Remains Popular in the UK
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Stylish outdoor living: Adds usable space for entertaining or relaxing.
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Durable: Modern materials resist weather and wear.
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Value: Enhances property appeal.
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Sustainability: Options available in responsibly sourced timber or recycled composites.
2. Timber Decking Options
Softwood Decking
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Budget-friendly, pressure-treated for outdoor use.
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Great for residential gardens.
Hardwood Decking
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Premium natural appearance.
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Resistant to rot and insects.
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Long-lasting with proper care.
3. Composite Decking: Oakio IniWood & Proshield
Composite decking blends wood fibres with recycled plastics for a low-maintenance, eco-conscious alternative to timber.
Oakio IniWood Decking
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Made with 35% plastic and 55% reclaimed wood fibre.
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Natural wood-like appearance with the durability of composite.
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Slip-resistant and low maintenance.
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Available in a range of colours and finishes.
Oakio Proshield Decking
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Advanced capped composite decking with a protective shield.
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Resistant to stains, fading, and scratches.
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Virtually maintenance-free — no oiling or sealing required.
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Long lifespan, perfect for high-traffic areas.
👉 Both Oakio ranges combine sustainability with performance — making them ideal for modern UK gardens.
4. Treated vs Untreated Timber
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Treated timber: Pressure-treated to resist moisture and decay — essential for outdoor use.
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Untreated timber: Requires staining and sealing; less durable outdoors.
5. Choosing the Right Decking for Your Project
Ask yourself:
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Budget → Softwood = affordable; Hardwood/Proshield = premium.
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Maintenance → Timber = needs seasonal care; Composite = low effort.
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Style → Natural look of hardwood vs sleek modern composite finishes.
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Durability → Composite (Proshield especially) offers the longest lifespan.
6. Installation Tips
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Use pressure-treated joists and supports.
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Leave expansion gaps for both timber and composite boards.
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For Oakio decking, follow manufacturer installation guidelines to ensure warranty validity.
7. Maintenance Guide
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Clean annually with decking cleaner.
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Reseal or re-oil every 1–2 years.
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Wash with mild soap and water.
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No staining, painting, or sealing required.
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Ultra-low maintenance: simple wash to keep clean.
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Protective cap layer resists stains, mould, and fading.
8. Why Buy from MSS Timber Merchants
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Stockists of Oakio IniWood and Oakio Proshield decking.
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Wide range of timber decking boards.
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Expert advice on choosing the right material.
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Competitive pricing and reliable local delivery.
[Browse Our Decking Range → link to decking product page
Conclusion
Whether you prefer the natural charm of timber or the modern performance of composite decking, MSS Timber Merchants has you covered.
For homeowners, contractors, and architects, our team is here to help you choose the right decking solution for your next project.
📞 0121 348 7695 | 🌍 MSS Timber Merchants
