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Timber decking is one of the most popular features not only in garden landscaping but in the construction of buildings and schools as well. In the home, timber decking contributes to the structure’s beauty and value all year round. In businesses, they are great additions to pubs, clubs, hotels and
restaurants where customers can relax and enjoy.
Timber or wood is the most sought-after material for home garden and even commercial decking projects. Whether softwood or hardwood, pressure-treated or not, timber makes for fantastic outdoor decks because they are durable and can last for up to 25 years if well-maintained. They are available in the form of
decking boards from DIY stores and timber shops and come with free decking kits.
Timber decking boards usually measure from 75mm to 150mm in width. The wider boards are easier to lay when building decks because lesser quantity is needed. On the other hand, the narrower decking boards are said to look prettier. Homeowners may choose to use timber decking boards that are plain and smooth,
colored or grooved.
Most timber decks, boardwalks and piers around the world use the plain boards. Grooved boards are also great to use as they have better grip when the deck is wet but it does not necessarily follow that they perform better than the plain boards. Colored boards are available but plain timber decking boards can
always be painted. Another important thing to remember is to choose boards that have rounded edges as protection for the feet and also to improve drainage.
The two most ideal types of wood used in decking projects are the hardwood and softwood. These terms pertain to the species of wood and not its physical hardness. Hardwood comes from trees that have broad leaves while softwood comes from evergreen trees and those that produce cones. Many hardwoods are naturally
durable and need no further treatment for it to stand all kinds of weather. It’s best to pick hardwood that can resist fungal decay for timber decking materials. Hardwoods are available in various colors but they are more costly and need more maintenance.
Softwood, meanwhile, may need pressure treatment for more strength and durability. Pressure-treated wood is also more resistant to rotting and decay. This particular wood specie is used for more than 90 percent of decks mainly because of its availability, low cost and it’s very easy to use. Another important
feature is its low maintenance.
To preserve timber decking, regular cleaning with a brush, pressure hose or deck cleaning liquid should be done. A clear water repellant should be added is on the deck at least once a year.
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