The wood decking material is very important when you decide to build a deck for your residential or business property. It is not only about adding mesmerism to the interior but also about withstanding the test of time, comfort for your pets and easy foot traffic.
There are deckings like hardwood decking & softwood decking. And then there is iconographic decking that gains a big-league status.
Read More: Wood Vs. Composite Decking – How to choose?
But before we move on, it is very important to know that softwood doesn’t necessarily mean that it is less durable or denser. It is simply a reflection of the species from which it is obtained. Woods obtained from coniferous species, or “evergreen” species, are categorised as softwood.
Types of Wood For Decking
The most common type of wood decking include hardwoods, pressure-treated wood, and softwoods. Here are some tips to choose the right one for you.
Hardwood Decking
Hardwood species are commonly found throughout the world, with Mahogany, Iroko, etc. being the most preferred hardwoods for decking because they define similarity with teak which is a costly option. Both of these hardwoods are strong, hard & dense.
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Teak is usually the recommended hardwood for decking, but the high cost limits its popularity. Mahogany makes a nice alternative.
The density and concretion of this wood guarantee the life span & stability of more than 25 years to the decking and, at the same time, makes the deck installing a hassle-free job. Depending on where you buy it from, the durability may range from 20 to up to 50 years.
Iroko, which is commonly produced in Tropical Africa, is another nice option for hardwood decking because of its high durability and amazing rot/insect resistance.
Pressure-Treated Wood
Pressure-treated wood is the most preferred & widely appreciated kind of wood used for decking because of the cost-efficiency, durability and aesthetic appeal it comes with.
It is a must-have wood decking material that supplements other decking woods as it always makes win-win either with its economical prices when the other is high-priced or with its solidity for structural support when another one is weak.
Pine is one of the most utilised pressure-treated wood for decking. High-maintenance requirements that include regular cleaning & sealing for the extension of its life and safe-keeping the wood in sound condition, is something which is shrinking the client base of African pine now.
Softwood Decking
Softwood Decking is not usually considered appropriate, as people think that softwood is comparatively softer or less dense. But, that’s not always the case. Cedar is softwood with rich colour and warp & woof.
Among the most commonly softwoods for decking, Cedar takes the crown because of its stability, durability, and delicacy that ensures natural protection from elements, long-establishment and higher adherence to paints & polishings compared to other wood decking materials.
It remains flat & straight and so also provides a rocklike substratum for paints & finishes that adds stars to its preferability. Cedar is an ideal softwood for decking.
The best wood decking types depends on the aesthetics you appreciate, the budget you can afford, the durability you prefer and the weather condition you are living in.
