Timber decking is a great addition to your garden or back yard where you will be able to relax in the sunshine or enjoy some al fresco dining on a warm evening. Half off the battle in getting this right is knowing what materials you need, and picking the best kind of timber for your needs. Not all timbers are alike and there is much to consider before you decide which material will be right for your new deck.
If you are planning to install a deck this summer, here are some of the materials which you should be looking to consider.
Hardwoods
In most deck designs here in Australia we see hardwoods used, which are extremely durable and most importantly resilient. When you think about the threats which exist for your deck we have to consider things like wildfires and animal infestations. Most hardwoods such as Merbau, Jarrah and Spotted Gum are great options in the face of these threats. Hardwoods will cost you a little more money but it could be a smart investment given the longevity which they are able to offer.
Treated Pine
In terms of a great looking timber deck Melbourne residents generally look away from the hardwoods as they don’t need quite as a high a level of protection as though living elsewhere in the country. A great option which you consider if you do not have such concerns is treated pine. This is an incredibly versatile and highly affordable option, which works really well for timber decking. There is no doubt that visually those hardwoods look more unique, but treated pine still looks great and is well protected against fungi, termites and general decay.
Composite Decking
Composite is a very environmentally-friendly option which we are seeing more and more of. The material is created using fibres of wood which are then mixed with recycled plastic. Timbers used here such as Jarrah, Highland Oak and Silver Gum provide an attractive color and style, yet with a more refined finish thanks to the way in which the product is manufactured with the plastic. This product is highly versatile and offers a great amount of protection from the elements. On top of being green, it is also an affordable option for your new deck.
Modular Decking
A final option which you could consider, especially if you are looking to build a basic deck and get it up quick, is modular decking. This material is made from real wood, and you have a range of options such as Merbau and treated pine. The fundamental difference here is that the timber boards and prefabricated into panels, which you will then slot together at home. These come in preset designs or you can speak with a custom-designer if you have something special in mind. In terms of ease this is definitely the best option for you, because it is essentially lego for adults.
These are the best options for you to consider once you have settled on building a deck on your property. As you can see, each product brings with it its own characteristics, benefits and disadvantages, depending on what exactly you are looking for.
