Decking Options – Choosing Hardwood, Softwood or Composite?
Decks can be a great way of expanding your living area, where you can relax and be around nature. People spend a lot of time designing and planning on the size and look of their decks, however, there is one very important decking feature that deserves your attention too, which is the material. People spend plenty of time considering the size and the appearance of their decks, but there is one aspect of decking that requires your consideration more, and that is the material.
Softwood, hardwood and composite are some of the decking materials, and each of them has its own benefits and disadvantages. It is obvious that your deck will suffer harsh weather as it always stays outdoors. While planning for a long-term decking solution, one should consider the durability of the material. But, if you want a short-term solution or add up to the aesthetic of your place, you can always consider the looks and pattern of the object.
Are you thinking of getting a deck installed on your lawn? Not sure if you should choose hardwood or composite decking? Wondering if any cheaper option is available?
With the help of this blog you will be able to choose the perfect decking material for your specific requirements. We will answer all your questions and suggest an outstanding carpentry contractor from Sydney. Let’s start with hardwood decking and its pros and cons.
HARDWOOD DECKING
Hardwood decking is the most widely preferred option as it is natural, durable and also looks great after installation. It is made from wood that grows moderately in tropical conditions, which makes it extremely durable and suitable for the outdoor environment. Some of the varieties of wood start to look even better as they age. Most commonly used timbers for this traditional decking are red ironbark, spotted gum, merbau, blackbutt. With its attention-grabbing appearance and hard-wearing nature, hardwood decking can uplift and enhance the look of your garden as well as your house. Though it raises the standard of your living, this type of decking requires high maintenance on a regular basis in order to preserve its appearance. Additionally, the high pricing of hardwood is another factor that causes people to explore alternate options such as softwood and composite decking.SOFTWOOD DECKING
Softwood decking is economical, eco-friendly, and quick and easy to install. It is low-cost because the tree source of softwood is easy to grow and process. Installing and working with softwood is also trouble-free. So if you are searching for an instant, hassle-free and low-cost deck, softwood is the best choice. Softwood is produced from coniferous trees like pine, which grow really fast. Timber produced from a slow-growing tree lasts longer and is named hardwood. On the other hand, fast-growing trees produce less durable timber, which is known as softwood. Softwood decks are less durable than hardwood, and they start showing signs of decay after a few years. So, if you are looking for an easy to install solution that won’t have to endure any wear and tear, then softwood decking will do the work just fine. Bearing in mind all these factors will help you choose between softwood and hardwood decking.COMPOSITE DECKING
Composite is a low-maintenance, recyclable and eco-friendly decking solution that also possesses an outstanding appearance. And as time passes, its quality and looks get better and better. Composite decking is available in a range of colours, sizes and appearances. It is less slippery than timber and maintains its features for a long time. Composite products are produced from by-products of wood and recycled plastics, and by combining synthetic and organic materials a durable product is created and it looks similar to wooden alternatives. Composite decking has many beneficial features, except it depends on treated lumber for stability and strength. Without the support of timber, there won’t be a strong framework for the installation of composite decking. For reducing maintenance of composite decking, it is permanently coloured which is why you cannot change the colour, tint or even the shade of that deck. If you have a good budget for decking, then you should consider this decking option. If you are still facing difficulties in deciding which decking material is good for you, then you can always take help of experienced carpenters. Level Headed Carpentry can cater to you with all your decking needs. Our professionals can even help you choose the best decking option while ensuring that it matches your expectations, needs and budget. Australian Timber is very durable and has the best looks of all the timbers used around the world. And we use it for all our carpentry purposes instead of the exported timber. We offer both commercial and residential decking carpentry services in Sydney, from the design to the last finishing detail, we collaborate with owners to make sure every project exceeds their expectations.