Is softwood good for decking?

Is softwood good for decking?

Pros and Cons of Softwood Decking It is known for being the cheapest decking material on the market. It’s made of fast-growing trees, which makes it more eco-friendly than hardwood decking. It’s easy to install and work with. If you decide to go for pressure-treated wood, it can have a really long lifespan.

What is the best softwood decking?

Softwoods such as pine and spruce will be the cheaper option, but must be properly treated with a wood preservative — as should any cuts in the wood. Cedar is an ideal softwood choice, being naturally weather-resistant.

What is the best decking to have?

Here’s a look at the best decking materials worth considering.

  • 1) Composite Decking.
  • 2) Natural Softwood Timber Decking.
  • 3) Hardwood.
  • 4) Thermowood.
  • 5) PVC Decking.
  • 6) Aluminium.
  • Factors to Consider When Choosing Decking Material.

Which wood is best for decking UK?

In the UK, Ipe is one of the most common decking materials, as it is durable, but there are other options, such as Elondo, Teak, Merbau, Belinga, Kebony, Iroko, Cumaru, Kurupay and Massaranduba.

How do you maintain a softwood deck?

Using a cleaning solution

  1. Using a cleaning solution.
  2. Sweep the deck. Remove all the furniture and use a stiff wire brush to sweep away loose debris, leaves and dirt.
  3. Protect the surrounding area.
  4. Apply the decking cleaner.
  5. Using a pressure washer.
  6. Decking oil.
  7. Decking stains.
  8. Choose how you apply the stain.

What’s the difference between softwood and hardwood decking?

Hardwood timber, which is used for hardwood decking is sourced from slow growing trees, which are often referred to as broadleaved trees. Softwood timber, which is used for softwood decking comes from faster growing, evergreen or coniferous trees. Commonly used hardwoods for decking are: ipe, teak, iroko and cumaru.

What type of wood should I use for a deck?

Wood Materials The three common choices when it comes to wood decks are redwood, cedar and pressure-treated wood that can be made of various types of wood species. Redwood and cedar are both naturally insect and rot resistant and have a natural look, but each has its own inherent issues.

What is best timber for decking?

Hardwood Species

  • Ironbark is the most durable hardwood for decking and offers longevity. It is extremely fire, termite and rot resistant.
  • Spotted Gum is widely used for decking on account of its durability and strength.
  • Yellow and red stringybark are durable enough for outdoor use.

Is pine OK for decking?

Pine or White Wood Both pine and standard “white wood” lumber work well for deck construction. Some pines are nearly as resistant to rot as cedar, and both of these options take paint well.

What are the pros and cons of softwood?

Cons & Disadvatages of Softwood: Density: The lower density of softwood timber means it’s weaker and less durable, however there are some ‘hard’ softwood options with a higher density like Juniper and Yew. Longevity: Softwood is less suitable for high traffic areas as it does not wear as well as hardwood over time.