How to Order Free Composite Decking Samples

Choosing new decking is a long-term investment, so it makes sense to see the product in person before making a final decision. Colours, textures and finishes often look different on a screen compared with natural outdoor lighting. A sample allows you to inspect the material closely, compare options at home and feel confident before placing a larger order.

If you’re planning a new outdoor entertaining area, pool surround or garden renovation, requesting product samples is one of the easiest ways to make an informed decision. Here’s a practical guide to help you through the process.

Why Samples Are Worth Ordering

Photos can provide a general idea of a product, but they cannot fully represent colour variation, surface texture or overall appearance in your own environment.

A sample lets you:

• Compare colours against your home’s exterior.
• Feel the surface finish.
• Check the board thickness and profile.
• View the product in morning and afternoon sunlight.
• Discuss options with your builder or landscaper.
• Make a confident purchasing decision.

This small step can help avoid costly changes later in the project.

Measure Your Project First

Before requesting samples, spend a few minutes understanding your project requirements.

Consider:

• Deck size
• Existing outdoor style
• Nearby landscaping
• Colour of walls and roofing
• Expected foot traffic
• Exposure to sun and weather

Having a rough idea of your project makes it easier to select suitable sample colours.

If you’re still estimating material quantities, the Composite Decking Area Calculator can provide a helpful starting point:

Compare More Than One Colour

Many homeowners initially choose a colour online, only to change their preference after seeing it outdoors.

Natural lighting changes throughout the day, and surrounding materials such as brick, stone or render can influence how a board appears.

Comparing several options side by side helps you identify the finish that suits your property best.

Look at the samples:

• In direct sunlight
• In shaded areas
• After light rain
• Next to existing paving
• Beside outdoor furniture

These simple comparisons often make the final choice much easier.

Think About Your Lifestyle

Appearance matters, but practicality should also influence your decision.

Ask yourself:

Is the area exposed to full sun?

Some colours absorb more heat than others. Viewing samples outside gives a better understanding of how different finishes suit your environment.

Do you entertain regularly?

A deck used for family gatherings may benefit from colours that hide dust and everyday marks.

Is maintenance important?

Low-maintenance products are popular because they require minimal ongoing care compared with traditional timber.

Choosing a finish that complements your lifestyle is just as important as selecting the right colour.

Speak With Your Installer

Samples are useful for more than personal preference.

If you’re working with a professional installer, they can review:

• Board profile
• Installation method
• Edge finishing
• Fastener compatibility
• Framing requirements

Early discussions help ensure the selected product matches your project specifications.

If you haven’t arranged installation yet, you can also explore professional installation services here:

Request Your Samples Online

Ordering samples is usually a straightforward process.

You’ll generally be asked to provide:

• Name
• Contact details
• Delivery address
• Preferred colours
• Basic project information

Providing accurate information allows the supplier to recommend suitable products where needed.

For Australian homeowners, requesting samples before ordering full quantities is a practical way to compare options without unnecessary commitment.

You can request product samples here:

What to Check When Your Samples Arrive

Don’t simply glance at the boards before putting them aside.

Spend time examining each sample carefully.

Check:

• Surface texture
• Colour consistency
• Edge finish
• Overall appearance
• Thickness
• Weight
• Build quality

Place each sample where the finished deck will be installed.

View it several times over a few days, especially during different weather conditions. This provides a much more realistic impression than indoor lighting alone.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Many buyers rush into selecting decking based purely on website photos.

A few simple precautions can prevent disappointment.

Avoid:

• Choosing only one colour without comparison.
• Judging colour under indoor lighting only.
• Ignoring surrounding landscaping.
• Ordering large quantities before seeing a sample.
• Forgetting to involve your builder during product selection.

Taking a little extra time now can lead to a result you’ll appreciate for many years.

Making Your Final Choice

Once you’ve compared colours, discussed installation and reviewed the product outdoors, you’ll be in a much stronger position to proceed.

Think beyond appearance. Consider durability, maintenance requirements and how the decking will complement your home’s architecture.

Small decisions made during the planning stage often have the greatest impact on the finished outdoor space.

If you’re still comparing products, browse the complete Composite Decking range to explore available styles and finishes before placing your order:

Final Thoughts

Ordering samples is one of the smartest first steps before investing in new outdoor materials. It gives you the opportunity to compare finishes in real conditions, involve your installer and select a product that suits both your home and lifestyle.

If you’re researching How to Order Free Composite Decking Samples, taking advantage of free samples provides valuable peace of mind before making a long-term investment.