The weather is heating up and we’re all starting to venture back outside. But enjoying a night out with a cool breeze and a beautiful sunset is easier with new wood decking. Decking that extends the front or back of your house giving you more living space is a summer fun must-have. Spend time with friends and family on a high-quality wood deck for memorable summer nights.
Why Wood Decking
Wood used to be the only choice for decking material but today options include aluminum, plastic & composite (wood look-alike). Of course, our top choice is solid lumber. Yes, the alternative material options are typically lower maintenance. Solid wood decking offers many benefits. It is durable, organic, easy to install, and not to mention your bare feet will be more comfortable!
If you’re installing a new deck or replacing an old one, it’s important to know your options. Solid wood decks should last between 15-25 years with some upkeep throughout those years. Typically, every two to three years your deck will need to be thoroughly cleaned and re-stained to preserve its natural beauty. Some wood planks may be pressure treated or thermo treated – both designed to make the wood stronger, longer-lasting, and resistant to insects. Unlike pressure-treated wood, thermal or heat-treated wood is not exposed to harmful chemicals. Let’s dive into the top 3 wood species for decking (plus our 2 personal favorites!)
What Type of Wood
Cedar is the expensive and most popular choice amongst homeowners. Cedar is an ideal choice because it is wear-resistant, resistant to moisture and naturally fights against rot and bugs. Another key advantage is its flexibility to bend without breaking and adapt to its surroundings. Cedar will withstand extreme heat or cold with little cracking over time.
Redwood, once the most popular choice, is also one of the most expensive. Because of its loved red-brown coloring and fire resistance, redwood forests have been victims of excessive logging. There is less old-growth material and more new-growth lumber which isn’t as durable. Redwood has the same pros as cedar – bug repellent, slow to wear, and can hold up in any environment.
Ipe is a tropical hardwood that is 8 times harder than redwood. Its strength and longevity are almost unmatched compared to the first two options. It also resists mold, rot, decay, fire, and insects. It ranges in color more so than other options as well with shades of red-brown to a golden brown. Beware of dark wood grains because it heats up more than lighter wood. Ipe wood grain is tight and interlocking which makes it slip-resistant as well.
Our Picks
Thermally treated wood decking such as Thermo Ash decking is more stable and less prone to decay. The heat treatment helps the deck stay in place and shiftless over the years while remaining all-natural and chemical-free. Thermo Ash is the eco-friendlier choice because it is normally sourced responsibly and not reducing old-growth forests nor tropical forests.
Reclaimed wood decking is a favorite because of its unique appearance. All redwood decking may look similar but no two reclaimed wood decks will. With reclaimed wood, you can choose almost any color planks from white and grey to brown and red. The planks are finished to make the surface smooth and better for bare feet. Our reclaimed wood is decades old; this wood has proven it can withstand insects, rot, decay, and severe weather. We now offer flame-resistant planks to give you that outdoor oasis you always wanted while keeping the family safe too.
Reach out to one of our experts if you have more questions about decking options!
