7 Factors to Consider when Choosing Timber Decking

When it comes to choosing timber decking for your project, there’s more to consider than just the visual appeal. Each timber species offers unique characteristics that can significantly impact your decking’s performance and longevity. Here are 7 factors to keep in mind before selecting timber decking.

The Budget

Like most aspect of building, budget dictates the finished product. The cost of decking can change substantially from species to species. While some local hardwoods like Spotted Gum decking offer a unique, sort after appearance and grain, they can be more expensive than other species. Treated pine decking is a budget-friendly choice, however, requires more maintenance than a hardwood decking. That’s why it is important to consider both upfront costs and long-term maintenance expenses when weighing up price.

Timber Properties

Different timber species have varying properties such as hardness, density, and natural oils. Merbau decking, for instance, has a high tannin content and therefore leaches onto surrounding surfaces. Hardwoods like Blackbutt timber decking is renowned for their stability and natural resistance to fire, making them ideal for bushfire prone areas.

The Location

Location plays a role when weighing up which timber decking to install. In areas that experience heavy rainfall or humid climates such as Queensland, some timber decking is more likely to experience warping, splitting or rotting, so choosing a durable hardwood such as Spotted Gum decking may be wise. Timber decking in bushfire prone locations like dry inland areas, owners might opt for timber species which are naturally bushfire resistant such as Grey Ironbark decking or Tallowwood decking.

Maintenance Requirements

Timber decking requires regular maintenance to ensure durability, resistance to water penetration and to keep the decking looking like new. Hardwoods typically require less frequent staining or sealing compared to softwoods, making them a low maintenance option.

Visual Appeal

The aesthetic appeal of timber decking can greatly enhance your outdoor space. Choose a timber species that complements your home’s architecture and landscaping. From the rich red of Karri decking to the contemporary look of Blackbutt, each timber offers a unique visual charm.

Workability Onsite

Consider how easily the timber can be cut, shaped, and installed onsite. Some hardwoods may be dense and harder to work with, requiring pre-drilling or specialised tools. Softwoods like Treated Pine decking are known for their ease of handling and workability onsite.

High-Traffic Areas

Durability is key when selecting timber decking, especially in outdoor environments with a BBQ or kitchen area and heavy foot traffic. For deck where heavy foot traffic is expected, look for timbers with a high density such as Tallowwood decking and Grey Box decking.

Bowens Range of Timber Decking

The choice of timber decking involves balancing visual appeal, budget, maintenance needs, and environmental factors. For an extensive range of decking, explore Bowens timber decking with options such as Karri decking, Jarrah decking, Tallowwood decking, Merbau decking, Blackbutt decking, Spotted Gum decking, Grey Box decking and more.

Still not sure what decking you need for your next project. Check out our blog “Deck Out the Deck,” for an overview of timber decking species and their properties.