COMPOSITE BALCONY DECKING IN SINGAPORE
Balcony decking involves the installation of outdoor flooring on the extension of your home. It allows you to express creative freedom within an overlooked area, transforming it into a sanctuary with a singular design upgrade. However, many get overwhelmed by the challenges of navigating the various composite decking options in Singapore’s tropical climate, fearing issues like rot, fading, and constant maintenance. This uncertainty often leaves balconies bare and their design potential untapped.
At Tulou, our range of composite balcony decking makes it easier than ever to showcase artistic flair and design a cosy balcony space. We recognise the often-overlooked potential of this area and offer solutions to help you elevate your balcony into a haven of creativity and relaxation.
WHY CHOOSE COMPOSITE BALCONY DECKING?
Composite balcony decking is a durable outdoor flooring material that mimics the look of wood while offering resistance to rot, splintering, and other common issues associated with traditional timber decking. While the allure of traditional timber decks is undeniable, the extreme tropical weather in Singapore will eventually take its toll, leaving the balcony deck faded, splintered and warped*. In contrast, composite balcony decking stands as the ultimate choice for discerning deck owners looking beyond natural timber decking. Beyond its versatility in utility and availability in a variety of finishes, its inherent resilience, uniform aesthetic, and enduring durability make composite decking ideal for everyday balcony decks, ensuring that your outdoor space remains a masterpiece of elegance that can withstand the test of time.
Weather and Heat Resistant
The CULTURE® Composite Timber decking by Tulou is made of high-quality raw materials blended with UV-inhibiting pigments that minimise heat build-up. Typical detailing, such as ventilation, is also factored during the installation process. The adjustable batten supporting the CULTURE® Composite Timber planks creates sufficient space to disperse heat faster, ensuring that your planks feel comfortable to walk on.
Low Maintenance
Manufactured with composite materials, our balcony decking eliminates the common maintenance issues such as cracking or warping, associated with older-generation timber decks. As such, you can enjoy the balcony timber decking without the worry of upkeep and heavy labour just to maintain its beauty.
Splinter Free
At Tulou, our products have gone through rigorous research and development by our manufacturers. Having undergone a relatively rigid manufacturing process and meeting the Building and Construction Authority (BCA) of Singapore guidelines for slip-resistant properties, our composite balcony decking is splinter-free, making it a safe option for any family and property.
COMMON TYPES OF BALCONY DECKING
1. Solid Timber Decking
- Made from natural hardwood or softwood
- Offers a warm, organic look
- Requires frequent oiling/sealing
- Prone to cracking, mould, and splinters in tropical climates
2. Wood Plastic Composite (WPC) Decking
- Blend of wood fibres and plastic
- Designed to mimic real wood
- Water-resistant and low maintenance
- Available in a wide range of finishes
3. Plastic or PVC Decking
- Made entirely of synthetic materials
- Fully waterproof, durable, but often less “natural” looking
- Can get hotter under the sun
- Less eco-friendly than WPC
COMPOSITE WOOD BALCONY DECKING VS NATURAL TIMBER BALCONY DECKING
When deciding between composite balcony decking and traditional timber balcony decking, it’s essential to consider the advantages and disadvantages of each option.
| Aspect | Composite Wood Balcony Decking | Natural Timber Balcony Decking |
| Durability | Resistant to weathering, warping*, and splintering | Prone to weathering, cracking, warping*, splitting, and splintering |
| Maintenance | Low maintenance, no regular upkeep required | Requires regular maintenance to prevent decay and damage |
| Appearance | Uniform appearance, maintains beauty over time regardless of constant exposure to moisture | Natural aesthetic, but prone to fading and growth of mould, mildew, moss and algae |
| Safety | Engineered for slip resistance, safe for families | May develop splinters, potentially hazardous |
| Longevity | Longer lifespan, less frequent replacement | May require more frequent replacement |
HOW TO INSTALL COMPOSITE BALCONY DECKING
Step 1: Measure & Gather
Determine material needs and collect essential tools (measuring tape, saw, drill, level, screws, safety gear).
Step 2: Plan Layout
Clear the balcony and outline your decking plan, considering existing structures.
Step 3: Build Support Frame
Construct a level frame (joists) attached securely to your balcony structure, ensuring correct spacing for your decking.
Step 4: Lay First Board
Align and fasten the first composite board to the frame, maintaining a small expansion gap.
Step 5: Continue Laying
Install remaining boards, ensuring consistent spacing and secure fastening.
Step 6: Install Fascia
Cover exposed frame edges with fascia boards for a finished look.
Step 7: Inspect & Finish
Check for loose parts and clean the deck.
Save time and ensure a perfect outcome by letting our skilled team handle your balcony decking project.
DESIGN YOUR DREAM BALCONY WITH TULOU
Our composite balcony timber decking is made from a patented process, resulting in superiorly consistent and low-maintenance decking material. Confident of its durability, Tulou backs it with an extensive 12 years all-in warranty, covering your composite timber product, aluminium substructure, as well as workmanship. For information on how we can help design your dream balcony, contact us for a free consultation today.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT BALCONY DECKING
Balcony decking prices in Singapore typically start from $18 per square foot, depending on the material chosen. For a more accurate estimate tailored to your balcony, we recommend requesting a personalised quote and consultation. While the initial investment varies, do consider the long-term savings on maintenance with certain materials.
When selecting balcony decking, keep these key factors in mind:
- Material Type: Consider wood (natural look, requires maintenance) vs. composite (durable, low maintenance).
- Balcony Size: Smaller balconies benefit from lighter materials and shades to create space.
- Weather Endurance: Choose materials that can withstand Singapore’s sun and rain for longevity.
- Safety: Opt for slip-resistant surfaces, crucial during rainy seasons.
- Appearance: Select a style and colour that complements your home’s look.
- Maintenance: Consider how much time you can dedicate to upkeep; some materials require less maintenance.
- Budget: Factor in the cost of materials and potential installation.
One key safety feature of composite decking is its engineered textured surface that offers less slippery footing. This design characteristic renders composite decking a safer choice for outdoor spaces, particularly in areas prone to moisture or regions experiencing frequent rainfall. The properties of the composite material, combined with the surface texture, contribute to a more secure footing underfoot, minimising the risk of slips and falls on your balcony compared to smooth wood surfaces.
Composite balcony decking offers impressive longevity, typically lasting several years. The durability of composite decking stems from its composition of wood fibres encased in polymer, making it highly resistant to common issues that plague wood, such as rot, warping, and splintering.
