Pool Decking
  • By Admin
  • 14 August, 2025
  • 8 min Read

Why Composite Pool Decking is the Smarter Choice for Your Victorian Poolside

If you own a pool in Victoria, you already know it’s more than just a place to cool off — it’s the heart of your outdoor living space. From summer barbecues to quiet morning swims, your pool area sets the tone for how you relax and entertain. That’s why choosing the right pool decking is such an important decision.

While traditional timber has long been a popular choice, composite decking — especially premium options like Ecodecking — is quickly becoming the go-to material for custom pool decks across Victoria. And for good reason.

1. The Benefits of Pool Decking

Before we get into material choices, let’s look at what pool decking actually offers:

  • Enhanced Safety – A well-designed deck creates a stable, slip-resistant surface around your pool, reducing accident risks.
  • Aesthetic Appeal – It frames your pool beautifully, making it look like a feature, not just a functional space.
  • Extended Usable Space – A deck provides extra room for seating, lounging, or outdoor dining, turning your pool area into a complete outdoor living space.
  • Property Value Boost – Quality deck installation in Victoria can increase both the appeal and resale value of your home.
  • Low Maintenance with the Right Material – Choose wisely, and your pool deck can stay beautiful without constant upkeep.

2. Understanding the Materials: Timber vs Composite

Timber Pool Decking

Timber offers a warm, classic look. However, when installed around pools, it comes with challenges: it absorbs water, requires regular sealing, and can splinter or warp under constant exposure to moisture and UV rays. In Victoria’s variable climate, this can mean high upkeep costs and shorter lifespan.

Composite Pool Decking (Ecodecking)

Composite decking is made from a blend of recycled wood fibres and polymers, creating a weather-resistant deck surface that looks like timber but performs far better. Ecodecking, in particular, is engineered for the Australian outdoors — resistant to fading, rotting, and warping, with minimal maintenance required.

3. Why Composite Decking Excels for Pools

When it comes to pool decking in Victoria, composite materials offer several distinct advantages:

  • Slip Resistance – Ecodecking is designed with textured surfaces to reduce slipping hazards — a critical safety feature around pools.
  • Low Maintenance – Forget sanding, sealing, or oiling every year. A quick hose-down is all your outdoor living space needs.
  • UV Stability – Composite decks maintain their colour even under intense Australian sunlight.
  • Water Resistance – Unlike timber, composite boards won’t swell, rot, or crack after repeated exposure to chlorinated or saltwater.
  • Eco-Friendly – Made from recycled materials, Ecodecking is a sustainable choice for environmentally conscious homeowners.

4. Key Considerations Before You Build

If you’re planning a deck installation in Victoria, here are some important factors to weigh before choosing your materials:

  • Climate Compatibility – Victoria’s weather can swing from hot and dry to wet and windy. Composite materials perform consistently year-round without seasonal swelling or shrinkage.
  • Long-Term Costs – While composite can have a higher initial investment, the savings on maintenance and replacement make it cost-effective over time.
  • Design Flexibility – Composite boards come in a wide range of colours and finishes, letting you match your pool area to your home’s style.
  • Council Regulations – Some Victorian councils have guidelines on pool fencing and decking proximity. Always check before you start.

5. An Extra Benefit You Might Not Expect

One overlooked advantage of composite decking is comfort underfoot. Timber can become scorching hot in peak summer, making it uncomfortable to walk on barefoot. Ecodecking is engineered to dissipate heat faster, meaning fewer “ouch” moments when you step out of the pool.

6. Making the Switch from Timber to Composite

If you currently have a timber pool deck, transitioning to composite is easier than you might think. Many existing substructures can be adapted to accommodate composite boards, reducing installation time and cost.

A professional deck installation team in Victoria can assess your current setup and provide tailored recommendations. This way, you get a custom pool deck designed for both beauty and performance.

Frequently Asked Questions About Pool Decking

Q1: What is the best decking for around the pool?

Composite decking, especially Ecodecking, is often considered the best option because it resists water damage, won’t warp or splinter, and requires minimal upkeep — making it ideal for pool environments in Victoria.

Q2: Does pool chlorine damage composite decking?

No — composite decking is highly resistant to chlorine and saltwater. Unlike timber, it won’t absorb chemicals, so it stays looking new for longer.

Q3: Is decking around a pool a good idea?

Absolutely. It improves safety, enhances the look of your pool area, and creates more usable outdoor space for relaxation and entertaining.

Q4: What is the average cost to build a deck around a pool?

Costs vary depending on size, design, and material choice. While composite can have a higher upfront investment than timber, it saves money in the long run due to reduced maintenance.

Q5: How long do composite decks last?

With proper installation and care, composite decks can last 25–30 years or more, even in challenging climates.

Q6: What is the negative with composite decking?

The main drawback is the higher initial cost compared to some timber options. However, this is often offset by lower maintenance and longer lifespan.

Q7: Is there something better than composite decking?

For most residential pool areas, composite strikes the best balance between durability, aesthetics, and maintenance. Some homeowners opt for PVC decking, but it can be more expensive and less natural-looking.

Q8: What ruins composite decking?

Prolonged exposure to harsh cleaning chemicals, abrasive scrubbing, or neglecting basic cleaning can shorten its life. However, normal pool use won’t harm it.

Q9: Are composite decks slippery when wet?

Quality composite decking, like Ecodecking, is designed with slip-resistant textures, making it safer than many timber surfaces.

Q10: Is PVC decking better than composite?

PVC is more resistant to moisture and staining but often comes at a higher price and may lack the natural timber-like appearance that composite provides.

7. The Bottom Line: Choosing for the Long Term

When you invest in composite pool decking, you’re not just buying a deck — you’re securing years of low-maintenance, high-performance enjoyment. Ecodecking blends modern technology with a natural look, giving you the best of both worlds.

For Victorian homeowners who want a stylish, safe, and sustainable outdoor living space, composite materials make more sense than timber in almost every category.