Looking to add some extra living space to your home with an outdoor deck? Congratulations – you’re making a wise decision! A deck can provide a great place to relax or entertain guests, and it can increase the value of your home.
When you’re ready to start shopping for wood decking, though, it’s important to know what options are available to you.
In this blog post, we’ll discuss the best wooden decking you can choose for your home.
What factors should you consider when choosing decking materials?
When choosing a decking material, there are a few things you’ll want to keep in mind.
First, consider the climate where you live. If you live in a wet or humid climate, you’ll want to choose a wood that is resistant to moisture and decay. Cedar and redwood are good choices for wet climates, while pressure-treated wood is good for humid climates.
Second, think about how much time and money you want to spend on maintenance. Wood that requires regular staining and sealing will require more upkeep than wood that doesn’t. In general, hardwoods such as oak and hickory are more durable and require less maintenance than softwoods like cedar and pine.
Finally, take into account the style and look of your home. If you have a traditional or rustic-style home, you’ll want to choose a wood deck that complements those styles. For example, cedar is often used in homes with southwestern or cottage decorating schemes.
The Best Wooden Decking Options For Your Outdoor Space
- Cedar: Cedar is a softwood that is resistant to moisture and decay. It has a natural resistance to insects, making it a good choice for homes in humid climates. Cedar also has a pleasant aroma, and it weathers to a silver-gray color over time.
- Redwood: Redwood is another softwood that is resistant to moisture and decay. It has a beautiful deep red color, and it gives your deck a natural beauty that can be long lasting.
- Pressure-treated pine: Pressure-treated pine is a good option for homes in humid climates. The treated lumber is resistant to insects, water, and rot, making it a good choice for decks that will be exposed to the elements.
- Oak: Oak is a hardwood that is resistant to moisture and decay. It has a beautiful golden color, and it's one of those deck materials that offers an authentic design.
- Hickory: Hickory is also a hardwood that is resistant to moisture and decay. It has a beautiful light brown color, and it's a wood species that has durability while also offering an interesting design.
Wood Decking Types: Hardwood or Softwood?
When deciding which type of wood decking is best for you, there are several things to keep in mind.
First, consider the climate where you live. If you live in a wet or humid climate, hardwoods such as oak and hickory may be your best choice. On the other hand, if you live in a dry area with low humidity levels, softwoods such as cedar and pine may be a better option.
Second, think about how much time and money you want to spend on maintenance. Hardwoods generally require less upkeep than softwoods. For example, hardwoods don’t need to be stained as often as softwoods, and they are more resistant to moisture and decay.
Finally, consider the style and look of your home. If you have a traditional or rustic-style home, hardwoods may be a better choice than softwoods. For example, cedar is often used in homes with southwestern or cottage decorating schemes.
Stain or Not to Stain?
If your deck is made from wood, it will need to be stained and sealed periodically in order to protect it from the elements. There are two main types of stains: oil-based and water-based. Oil-based stains are more durable and longer-lasting than water-based stains, but they are also more difficult to apply and can be hazardous to use. Water-based stains are easier to apply, but they don’t last as long as oil-based stains.
In general, hardwoods such as oak and hickory should only be stained with oil-based stains, while softwoods such as cedar and pine can be stained with either type of stain. Be sure to consult a professional deck builder before deciding which type of stain to use.
What are the benefits of wooden decking over other materials like concrete or stone?
- Wooden decking is more affordable than other materials like concrete or stone
- Wooden decking is easier to install than other materials
- Wooden decking is more aesthetically pleasing than other materials
- Wooden decking is more durable than other materials
- Wooden decking is more environmentally friendly than other materials
Are there any potential problems that can occur with wooden decking?
While wooden decking is a beautiful and popular option for backyard decks, there are some cons to consider before making your final decision.
Wooden decking can be costly, and it requires ongoing maintenance, such as staining and sealing, to keep it looking its best. In addition, wood is susceptible to rot, pests, and weather damage, so it may need to be replaced more often than other types of decking materials.
What are the best ways to care for your wooden decking?
- Sweep your deck regularly to remove debris such as leaves or dirt
- Clean and stain your deck every two years to keep it protected from the elements
- Repair any damage to your deck as soon as possible to prevent further damage
