When considering what kind of deck you want to build, a lot of people decide on wood for the look and feel it provides. While softwood makes up 80% of all decking materials, hardwood is becoming increasingly popular among homeowners looking to invest in something that will last a long time. Hardwood also has a natural resistance to fungi and other insects that can damage composites or pressure-treated pine.
However, not all kinds of hardwood are the same and there are pros and cons to each type. Hardwoods are typically more expensive than softwoods and can require a little more work during installation, but they can last a much longer time than other types of decking material and may even stand up to more severe weather conditions such as heavy snow or high winds.
While the durability of a hardwood deck is important, it’s also good to consider how the wood was harvested and sourced before making any final decisions. Many tropical hardwoods are sourced from regions where deforestation is a major issue. This is why it’s important to choose a company that offers FSC (Forest Stewardship Council) or PFEC (Pacific Forestry Ecological Certification) chain of custody certifications to ensure that the timber is sourced responsibly. This can help to reduce the environmental impact of the harvesting process and encourage reforestation and other forms of land use that will benefit the local communities.
Some of the most common hardwoods for decking include Ipe, Cumaru and Massaranduba. Ipe is one of the most durable and naturally resilient woods available, offering a Class A fire rating and a Janka hardness score that’s higher than redwood or cedar. It also resists insect infestation, rot and mildew. While the cost of Ipe is high, it will likely last 10 to 15 years or more in most climates, requiring only periodic staining and refinishing.
Cumaru is another durable option that is comparable to Ipe in terms of hardness and strength, while having a slightly different appearance with more of a reddish hue. It can be refinished in the same way as Ipe, with a UV-blocking penetrating oil that’s specifically formulated for hardwoods.
Batu is a beautiful option that closely resembles mahogany and can be used in the same ways as Ipe or Cumaru. It is also resistant to rot, termite and mildew and can be refinished with a UV-blocking oil.
While kiln-dried hardwoods are far more stable than pressure-treated lumber, they do expand and contract when exposed to hot or cold weather, so it’s important to leave a bit of space between boards. It’s also a good idea to apply a waterproof sealant to the decking, which can be found in most home improvement stores. It’s best to avoid stains with these types of wood as they tend to soak in and can lead to discoloration, although if you do choose to stain, make sure the product is formulated for hardwoods. Lastly, it’s a good idea to wear a dust mask during installation as the sawdust from these hardwoods can irritate your nose and throat.