A deck is a great way to get the most out of your outdoor living space, whether for entertaining or relaxation. Here are some tips on how to keep your wood deck looking fresh and lasting longer.
A wood deck is a great way to add value and beauty to your home. But, how long does a wood deck last? What are the best tips for a lovely outdoor space in 2022?
Wood decks are a beautiful addition to any house, but how long do they last? This is dependent on a number of things, including the kind of material used, the environment in which you reside, and how well your deck is maintained. Because a new deck is such a large investment, you’ll want to be sure it’s built to endure.
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What kind of wood should I use for decking?
You may pick from a variety of wood kinds for your deck planks and deck structure. Before picking which one is right for you, think about your budget, your surroundings, and how long you want your deck to survive. Your deck builders will be able to provide you some advice as well. Here are some of the most prevalent decking timbers and their estimated lifespans.
Redwood or Cedar
These softwoods have a rich, crimson colour that not only looks wonderful, but also contains tannins and oils that make them naturally resistant to rot and insects. However, you’ll need to choose your timber wisely since heartwood, which grows closer to the tree’s core, is more resistant than sapwood, which develops on the tree’s periphery.
Even with their natural resistance to rot, the lumber can still be affected by the elements, so you can also use a stain and sealer to help prevent cracks and splinters. You will need to clean your deck regularly and reseal as required. You can expect Redwood or Cedar decks to last 25 years or more, but it could be more like ten years if it is not maintained correctly,
Hardwood from the tropics
Hardwood from the tropicss, such as ipe and tigerwood, are one of the hardest and most durable materials to use for decks and are naturally resistant to rot and bugs. It is a very dense wood, so it is less prone to damage from the weather, your pets, or your children. But being so dense means it can be hard to drill into, and it is very heavy to lift. Hardwood from the tropicss don’t stain very easily either. You can apply a clear UV protective oil finish if you want to retain the original color. This will need to be reapplied every three to four years.
Decks made out of Hardwood from the tropics can last a long time, typically 30 to 50 years.
Wood that has been pressure treated
Pressure-treated wood has been treated with a chemical that makes it more resistant to decay and insects, as the name implies. It’s usually built of pine, although several kinds of wood may be used according on the style you want. Pressure-treated wood is becoming more popular.
. It’s simple to set up, inexpensive, long-lasting, and comfortable to walk on.
Although it is a more cost-effective alternative for a fresh deck, it does need constant upkeep. Every two or three years, it should be carefully cleaned and restained. If properly maintained, a pressure-treated pine deck may survive for at least 15 years.
What Are Some Wood Alternatives?
Most people like the feel of wood under their feet, but if you don’t want to use wood for your deck, there are several other options.
Decking made of composite materials
Decking made of composite materials has the appearance of wood, but it is made from a combination of wood chips and PVC or plastic (which can sometimes be made from recycled materials). Being eco-friendly, decks made from Decking made of composite materials are very durable and don’t require weather-proofing or painting. If you want to keep it looking good, though, it will need regular cleaning and maintenance. Decking made of composite materials is less susceptible to weathering and fading, and won’t rot or splinter, but it may feel a bit cold under your feet. These decks typically last up to 25 years or sometimes even longer.
Lumber made of plastic
You can expect a deck made out of Lumber made of plastic to last a long time, about 30-35 years, and it often comes with a 50-year warranty, so because of this, it can be expensive. It is straightforward to install, is waterproof, has no splinters, and is very low maintenance. The downsides are it can get very hot, especially if it is regularly in the full sun, and it can squeak when you walk on it.
Aluminium / Steel
This style of decking is very durable and termites despise it, but it is also quite expensive! It should survive for at least 30 years, and maybe up to 60 years. It does, however, need care, since it must be desalted and recoated on a regular basis.
Stone / Concrete
A concrete or stone deck is likewise costly, but it is very long-lasting. It’s great for low-level decking areas, is reasonably simple to maintain, and can fit in with your house, however it may lack character in certain circumstances. It should survive for at least 70 years.
How Can I Extend the Life of My Wood Deck?
There are various things you can do to extend the life of your deck.
Make a good deck design
Weather conditions, your block of land, how near the deck is to the ground, and whether it is linked to your home or free-standing must all be taken into consideration when designing your deck. Ensure that your deck builders are experts who know what they’re doing, since the design of your deck may have a huge influence on how long it lasts.
Make Use of High-Quality Decking
When building your new deck, be sure to utilize high-quality, long-lasting materials. This includes not just the wood used for the deck boards and structure, but also the nails, nuts, screws, and other fittings necessary to assemble it. Your deck builder should be able to provide you with recommendations for the finest materials for your situation.
Keep Your Deck in Good Shape
It is critical to maintain your new deck after it has been constructed. Grooves or gaps between the deck boards are common, and holes in the knots of wood may be found. These spaces accumulate water, dirt, leaves, and other plants since the floor is level. This is an ideal environment for algae and moss to thrive. In addition to being excellent for the wood, algae may give your deck a green tint and make it highly slippery when wet. Brush away the debris and wash clean your deck on a regular basis.
A wooden deck is a great area to interact, rest, and take in the scenery. If your deck is well-built and well-kept, you should be able to enjoy it for many years to come.
The “how to make deck boards last longer” is a question that many people have. If you want your wood deck to last for years, there are some things you can do to make it last even longer.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long should wood decks last?
A: This is a tough question to answer. It depends on how the deck was made and what it is made of, but wood decks can typically last for about 10-20 years.
How often do decks need to be replaced?
A: This depends on how often you play and what the deck is made out of. Wood should last a long time, but other materials may need to be replaced more frequently.
How long should you keep a deck?
A: While the life of a deck depends on your usage, it is usually recommended to replace them every 6-12 months.
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