If you’re planning to build a deck, it’s important to consider your chosen material. It will impact the cost, look and durability of your deck.
Wood and composite materials are popular, combining low maintenance with various colour options. But which one is right for you?
Natural woods
Natural woods are an eco-friendly choice for your deck. They offer low maintenance and long-lasting strength. They can be found in various tones and styles, making it easy for homeowners to find a look that matches their home and garden design.
Cedar is another common type of wood used in decking. It is a sturdy and reliable material that can handle heavy use and foot traffic. It can be stained or painted for added colour. It also resists mould and mildew, making it an ideal choice for outdoor spaces.
Regardless of the type of natural wood you choose, you’ll need to ensure that your decking is installed by an experienced decking contractor. They will know which species are appropriate for your climate and which type of wood is best suited for your particular space.
A wood deck is a beautiful addition to any home and can improve your feelings about your house. The right wood deck can also enhance your outdoor living space by providing a relaxing place to enjoy your backyard.
Tropical hardwoods
When people think of decking, tropical hardwoods are often the first thing that comes to mind. They are known for their durability, sturdiness, and rich colours. However, they can also come with a big price tag. Considering all the pros and cons before choosing a tropical hardwood for your deck is essential.
Durability: Most tropical woods are naturally resistant to rot, decay, splintering, warping and more. These hardwoods also have natural oils that help resist moisture and other damage.
They’re also more resistant to fire than many other woods. Some exotic hardwoods are fire-resistant to the same degree as concrete and steel.
These hardwoods are naturally beautiful, too, and many of them can even match the hue of cedar. Some, such as ipe, can even weather to a silver patina over time without the need for annual sealers.
Cost: The cost of tropical hardwoods is comparable to their domestic counterparts, but they can last much longer and require less maintenance. For this reason, they’re a good choice for luxury-minded homeowners who want to avoid composite decking in favour of a more authentic look.
Colour: Some exotic hardwoods fade to a light silvery grey, which is fine with most homeowners who prefer the look of weathered wood. Alternatively, some can be stained to retain their golden tone.
The deck Adelaide is our most popular tropical hardwood for decking because it carries a Janka hardness of 1210. It’s not as dense as Ipe or Cumaru and can be much easier to work with, but it maintains a durable lifespan if installed properly and ventilated.
Whether it’s left to weather to a silver patina or stained deck, Adelaide will provide years of maintenance-free enjoyment. It’s resistant to rot, splintering, decay and fire.
It’s a very low-maintenance wood because it is so hard and rot-resistant, so you’ll only need to sweep away dirt and debris or wash down the deck when needed. You can stain it, but water-based stains don’t stick to it as well as other tropical hardwoods so it won’t look as good as other tropical woods.
Composites
Composites are a popular material that is used for decking. They are made from a combination of wood fibers and plastic materials. They are a greener option than traditional wood. They are also durable and strong.
They are usually manufactured using a process that involves heating and mixing ingredients. Sometimes they are made with recycled materials, making them a great choice for those who care about the environment.
These composites are available in a variety of colours, which makes them ideal for any home. They can also mimic the look of natural wood without the high maintenance requirements.
One of the most common uses for composite decking is for patios. They are resistant to weather, rot, and mould, so they are an excellent choice for those who enjoy the outdoors.
They can also be used for a walkway, cladding, and other decorative surfaces. These materials can help people keep their yards and gardens looking beautiful for years to come.
Another good use for composite decking is building a backyard shed. It is a popular option for people who want to store tools and equipment in their yards.
This type of decking is durable and can be made to withstand heavy foot traffic. It is also very easy to clean, which benefits anyone who wants to maintain the look of their garden.
These types of decking are also very safe for children to play on. They are unlikely to break off in splinters like wooden decking and are also very warp-resistant.
They are often a better choice for people with limited budgets or those who aren’t willing to spend as much time on maintenance. They are less expensive than wooden decking and can save a homeowner money in the long run.
Most composites are made with a cap and core for enhanced durability and protection from the elements. It is why many homeowners prefer them to natural wood. They are resistant to fading and mould and have no delamination problems that can happen with wood due to moisture.