Summer is just around the corner and there isn’t a better time to start planning to build a deck. Building a deck is a great way to increase the value of your home. If built, installed and maintained well, a deck can last for a few decades. One of the ways to ensure that your deck is built well is by selecting a durable type of wood for the deck. There are several good-quality woods on the market that are typically used for decks. These include: western red cedar, redwood, mahogany and ipe.
Each homeowner has a different reason for selecting the specific type of wood used for their deck. Decide which of the following factors are most important for you:
* Durability
* Color
* Wearability
* Eco-friendliness
* Cost
* Hardwood or softwood
Types of Deck Wood:
Western Red Cedar
* Color: Red-brown but ages to a silvery gray
* Softwood
* Available in several grades
* Decay resistant
* Quick to weather
* Sealer required to prevent weathering
* Can last 30 years
Redwood
* Color: Available in several shades from red to dark red-brown. Weathers to a yellow-red and in some cases gray.
* Lightweight
* Softwood
* Available in several grades
* High decay resistance
* Tight grained with few knots in the wood
* Prolonged exposure to moisture can cause the wood to blacken
* Sealer required to prevent blackening
