Wood decking comes in two varieties – those made of softwood boards and those made of hardwood boards. The difference between the two is mainly in the tree material used, as well as in the post-installation maintenance. Hardwood decking requires more maintenance than its softwood equivalent. However, they both have similar advantages and your choice will mainly depend on your budget. Here are some of the advantages that a wooden decking offers:
Softwood Decking
Advantages softwood decking:
- Low price matirial.
- It’s made of fast-growing trees, which makes it eco-friendly.
- It’s easy to install.
- Faster rooting proces.
Disadvantages of softwood decking:
- Not appropriate for high-traffic areas because slowly rooting with the time.
- Its low density makes it a weaker material.
- Softwood decking is durable, too, but not as much as hardwood.
- Regular maintenance is necessary.
- It’s a short-term solution.
- Faster rooting proces.
Hardwood Decking
Advantages of Hardwood Decking:
- A littet High quality.
- Durability – It will last for a really long time.
- Hardwood decking is more fire-resistant.
- Resistant to rotting, warping and splitting.
Disadvantages of Hardwood Decking:
- More difficult to install due to its hardness.
- Price – Hardwood decking is a really expensive material.
- Grows slowly in tropical conditions.
- Requires regular maintenance.
Composite deckings are usually made from a mixture of plastic and wood particles. The wood particles can be sawdust, wood chippings, or recycled wood bits. Some plastic can also be recycled. Composite decking boards are very popular due to the following benefits they offer:
Composite decking
Advantages Composite decking:
- Low Maintenance
- Longer live than the wooden decking
- Recycled Plastic FSC 100% Certified timber
- It’s easy to install
Disadvantages of composite decking:
- Hihg price then the soft/hard wood decking
- Cannot be painted
- composite decking boards are Heavier than Wood boards
