Composite Decking Boards | Garden Decking

Decking Installation Diagram

Deck Boards are available in various widths, lengths and thicknesses. 2m, 2.4m to 4m highest up to 3600mm.  

Which Decking Boards are best?

Pressure Treated Wood Boards

Pressure treated wood boards are the most common type of flooring material used for construction. Pressure treated deck boards are less expensive than other types of wood, but they can rot and become infested with insects in just one year. The chemicals that go into pressure treating the wood make it difficult for water to penetrate which helps them last 15 years before needing replacement or repairs on damage sites such as bugs chewing through your decking material! 

It also has some disadvantages. The chemicals they use to treat these woods are damaging to the environment. So, some are starting to use environmentally friendly chemicals. It is high in maintenance and its life span is short.

Hardwood Decking 

Hardwood boards are naturally resistant to insect damage, which means they are eco friendly. Hardwood decks are the go to for natural wood enthusiasts because they're strong, lightweight and have a naturally attractive colour. Hardwood decks are the most natural looking and beautiful decking board type. They can last up to 30 years with proper maintenance.

PVC Decking Boards

PVC decking boards are made of pure plastic. They do not crack, splinter or warp. They are resistant to mould and insect damage. With proper maintenance, they can last up to 25 years. 

Composite Decking 

The most preferred type of decking board is composite. They are composite of recycled plastic and wood. They are strong, durable and easy to maintain and clean. But they are more resistant to rotting, splintering, moulds and insect damage.

Plastic composite decking is an environmentally friendly alternative to traditional wooden decking. Made from recycled plastic and wood fibres, composite decking is durable and easy to maintain. It is also an effective way to reduce your carbon footprint. In addition, composite decking is available in a variety of colours and styles to suit any home exterior. If you are looking for an eco friendly and stylish decking option, look no further than plastic composite decking! A plastic composite deck is an alternate option for wooden decking. 

Timber Decking Boards

Consider Timber decking rather than standard softwood boards. It gives extra grip and adds a modern look to your garden. Wooden decking boards will last a lifetime with proper care and maintenance. 

The different types of timber used for Decking:

Softwood decking :

This is the most common type of wood used in decking. Budget-friendly, long-lasting and durable. Softwoods which are used for wood decking are as below:

Pine  - Pine is a very common type of softwood used for decking. It is lighter in shade like yellow, and turns slightly darker as they age.

Cedar - Cedar is more expensive but durable than pine. Moisture resistant comes in red, yellow & off-white shades. It slowly turns grey as it ages.

Redwood - Redwood is the most durable and popular softwood. A bit more expensive than pine.

Siberian larch decking is another type of timber decking which gives an aesthetically beautiful and natural look. It is more suitable for exterior applications and lasts up to 30 to 60 years. Siberian larch decking is one of the world’s most durable softwoods.

Hardwood decking: It is more durable than softwood decking. And expensive as they are rarely found. The most commonly used types are: 

Teak - Teak is the most commonly used hardwood due to its durability. It has a high oil content which protects it from insects & rotting.

Oak - Oak is strong timber and oak boards are usually used for internal flooring. Oak is a great option for those who want to use hardwood but are intimidated by tropical species. Oak will not be as durable or stable, but it's well suited in elevated locations where its natural beauty can shine through! 

Cumaru - Cumaru is the hardest, densest and long lasting hardwood. It is fire and moisture resistant. 

IPE - IPE is the best hardwood among all. It is fire, moisture, and insect resistant. 

European Oak decking is fully air dried and the ideal choice for designers who are looking for the perfect blend of durability and beauty.

How long does oak decking last?

Oak is one of the most durable woods out there, with an outdoor life expectancy that can range from 15-25 years. It all depends on how it's treated and what kind you choose for your project!

Best Wood To Use for Decking

There will be varying opinions but if you value cost over quality then Redwood is one of the best softwoods you can have. But if you choose quality and durability then Hardwood is the best option. IPE is the best wood you can use. These are a bit more expensive than softwoods though. 

Decking Panels provide an essential foundation for any garden landscape project. Decking panels are easy to install, durable, low maintenance and also budget friendly. 

Deckorators

What is the Gap between Decking boards?

The best way to install your decking boards is by leaving a gap of 1/4" -1/8". This will allow for sufficient drainage, prevent rot and strengthen the wood. Expansion gaps are essential when constructing decking. An expansion gap of 5-8mm between the boards is needed.

The two main reasons to leave a gap:

To preserve the Decking - the gaps between the boards act as a drainage for the patio. Without that, water will be stuck on the surface of your patio. The decking will be exposed to moisture and these boards will shrink or expand depending on the temperature and humidity. 

For Safety- if you don't have space then there might be water puddles on your patio. Then decking will become slippery when wet.