Choosing good decking timber will make your deck look better and last for a long time. There are a few things that you should know and follow to choose the right decking material for your home. Always insist on pressure-treated material that has the right amount of treatment. Buying pressure-treated lumber is important and very logical option as that will support the structural part of the deck that includes the posts, the beams, the joists and others that you usually cannot see when the deck incomplete.
Pressure-treated timber can support larger weight and will last for a longer span as compared to redwood, cedar and other woods that are most commonly used for building decks. This material is also much less expensive than the other decking materials.
The rating of pressure-treated decking timber is done according to the pounds of preservative retained per cubic foot. Higher rating means it will have better protection ability and more resistant to fungi and insect attack.
There Are Three Common Types of Ratings:
- One is for above ground use ranging from .15 to .25 and is typically used for decking, railing, and fencing.
- Ground contact use timber has (.40 rating and is used for the posts, beams, and joists.
- Below the grade, the type has .60 rating and is usually used for support posts partially buried and for planters and permanent wood foundations.
Naturally Durable Wood
If you are looking for naturally durable decking timber then you can go for tropical hardwoods such as Ipe, Balau and ironwood. These are beautiful, durable, string and dense but can be a bit pricey. Moreover, these woods are not fit for DIY projects and therefore you will need an expert contractor. There are other pros and cons of selecting naturally durable wood.
The Pros of Naturally Durable Wood Are:
- It repels bugs and resists decay
- It prevents the spread of fire
- It can last for 20 to 30 years with proper maintenance such as annual washing and periodic sealing.
The downside of naturally durable wood includes softness that makes it prone to denting and marring. Another factor of concern is the price of it, which is about two to five times more than pressure-treated timber.
The Option of Rot-Resistant Wood
You can also choose naturally to rot-resistant woods of cedar, cypress, and redwood. Though these woods will cost you more than pressure-treated decking timber, these will last for many more years with proper maintenance and care proving to be cost-effective in the long run. You will find these woods in the coastal areas and therefore these woods are also able to endure salt spray.
Tips to Choose
There Are Five Basic Steps to Choose the Right Decking Timber According to Your Required Specification.
- Choose the right color of the decks. This is easy as timber products are available in a few colors mostly and therefore you will not have a hard time deciding which color to choose. Usually, there are here color groups namely reds, creams, and whites.
- The grade of the timber is important and there are different grades available in specific qualities. Therefore, have a fair idea about grading before you visit the timber store.
- Size of boards to use is another important factor. You will need to have a clear idea of the space and its specifics and choose the right size from different sizes that will fit your decking space.
Apart from that, you will also need to consider the durability and finish of the decking timber. Different types of decking timber will have different durability and finish. Appearance, water resistance, convenience will also influence your final choice.