Timber decking gives a house a touch of class and style that lasts a long time. Such a deck looks impressive and lasts through the generations, becoming the favourite downtime nook. So knowing how to choose the right timber decking for your home is one step towards creating a striking home. A timber deck raises a property’s value and makes the home look loved and taken care of.
Timber decking creates an indoor-outdoor space that allows the family to have fun outdoor and indoor activities simultaneously. Its strength means it can withstand high traffic, and thankfully the elegant deck is easy to clean and low maintenance.
Timber Decking Options for Your Home
The choice of timber decking depends on various factors, such as the type of wood chosen, the costs involved, and the deck design. Some types of timber behave uniquely when exposed to different conditions. For instance, Merbau though valuable, bleeds tanning when wet and causes staining of other floors when people walk on it.
If you are considering timber decking, these timber decking options are available on the market.
- Treated pine
Treated pine lasts long because the treatment enables it to withstand termites, fungi, and damage from decay. It is one of the more budget-friendly options and is easy to install and maintain.
An annual round of treatment will keep it in top condition. It is lightweight. Its versatility comes through as it is easy to change its appearance by staining it or leaving it to turn grey from the weathering.
- Hardwoods
Hardwoods are favourites for their extreme resilience and durability. Some popular types include Jarrah, Oak, Spotted Gum, Blackbutt, and Merbau, and each has a different hue, a plus for when planning on the design.
For example, Spotted Gum’s natural shades range from pale brown tones to deep red, almost brown ones. Oiling or staining the deck gives it a unique colour and protection from fading by the sun.
Another major advantage of hardwood timber decking is its fire resistance quality. For this, such decks are the best for kitchens and barbecue spots and well-suited for construction in areas prone to bushfires.
They are not cheap, but all they require for maintenance is cleaning by scrubbing with a brush. Jarrah takes the prize among hardwoods for its density. It is denser than Oak and has a natural resistance to rot. Hardwood timber decks last a minimum of 20 years to almost a lifetime which is great value for money.
- Modular timber decking
The unique thing about modular decking is that they are prefabricated panels made of various types of timber.
They are the best choice for decking small spaces that require the construction of a self-supporting deck. Since the panels contain timber choices like treated pine and hardwoods, the costs and maintenance depend on the type of wood chosen.
- Composite timber decking
Composite decking is not wholly timber decking. It is a product of a mixture of recycled plastic, fibre cement, and wood fibres. Its colours align with the tones of natural timber and are environmentally certified.
Their texture gives them anti-slip properties. They are ideal for spaces exposed to water and function well as pool-side decks. They are another affordable option; their maintenance requirement is occasional normal scrubbing using a cleaning agent.
Final Thoughts
When choosing the best timber decking, consider the activities in line for the deck. Will it be a high-traffic family and entertainment space around a pool or for a home prone to bushfires? Timber that is easy to work with and has a good finishing will give a sleek deck. It is also important to know how often you should stain your Timber deck. Click here to learn more. Consider the installation and maintenance costs. The long-term aesthetic value of a timber deck will turn a home into a beauty.