Putting in a deck in your backyard is a great way to have an area for relaxing and enjoying your garden, while also entertaining guests. Many decks use wood for the flooring, but there are many different varieties to choose from. Here are some of the top choices.

Ipe Wood

Tropical hardwoods are a popular option both for their long lifespan and their beautiful appearance. Ipe wood, also called Brazilian walnut, is definitely one of the more popular options. It is resistant to decay and pests, so there isn't much maintenance required. It has a long life span and is harder than teak. Ipe wood have a deep, dark brown shade, though some might display more of a reddish tone when the sun shines on it.

Redwood

Another wood you might want to use for your backyard deck is redwood. Redwood is a softwood that can be used, though you do need to make sure it is treated or sealed to prevent rot and insect damage. Redwood has a deep reddish brown color that is perfect for a modern or traditional style deck. If the redwood planks come from a tree that had a lot of sapwood near the bark, it is more susceptible to decay because the wood is softer. A lumber professional should be able to tell you how much sealing it needs to be used for an outdoor deck.

Pressure Treated Pine

Pine is not typically chosen for outdoor projects because it is highly resistant to the elements. Insects, mould, and rot are all big risks when you have it outdoors. However, if you really like the look of pine, you can still use it for your deck, but it needs to be pressure treated. This means the pine goes through a chemical process that will protect it from wood-boring insects like termites, keep it from getting water damage, and help to reduce the risk of mildew and mould.

Composite Wood

This is not technically a solid wood option, but it looks just like wood, so it is worth considering. If you want to save a little money and have something that is low maintenance, composite wood might be your best option. This is made with small amounts of wood fibers along with recycled plastic, so it is durable and doesn't decay or rot, but it still looks like wood. It won't feel exactly like wood, so that is something to consider. It is worth seeing up close before you decide.

For more information, contact a business such as Hayter's Timber & Paving.

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