Differences Between Softwood Decking and Hardwood Decking

The first attempt to install wood decking was at the Brooklyn Navy Yard in Brooklyn, New York in 18 47. The original deck was made from logs that were gathered from the surrounding forest. It was not until the Second World War that wood was brought into widespread use because of the shortages of lumber caused by the war. Learn more about ipe decking problems. Today, wood decking continues to be used on roofs, decks, porches, basements, although more modern structures mostly use engineered wood decking.Wood decking is constructed using pieces of split wood or strips of a larger board. The boards are then joined together into a wood decking structure which looks more like a brick porch than a deck. Decks can be left natural looking or have a low maintenance, moisture resistant finish applied to them. There are many species of wood that are susceptible to decay, insect infestation and water damage, so the more stable and durable species of wood decking are used.One of the benefits of wood decking, especially in damp climates, is that it can withstand periods of drought. Damp climates can cause wood to expand, which leads to buckling and sagging, as well as cupping. This effect is reduced with wood decking because it expands less when it dries out. In addition, wood decking adds significant strength to the structure, meaning that when people walk across it they do not risk being injured. Cracks in the wood decking can be filled with epoxy resins that provide a durable protection for the structural integrity of the entire deck.Another advantage of wood decking over other materials is that it is completely natural wood. Wood is naturally durable, so when it is exposed to the elements year after year, it is long lasting, resisting damage from the changing weather. In contrast, composite materials, such as PVC, are made up of synthetic materials, including polymers, which cannot withstand exposure to the elements and are vulnerable to damage. Wood, on the other hand, will withstand most any weather event, thus making it a good building material for a variety of climates.As mentioned above, one of the main differences between softwood decking and hardwood decking comes from the way the wood deck boards are constructed. Typically, softwood decking utilizes floating or butt jointed boards. Butt jointed boards are joined together by overlapping the center piece of each board with a thin veneer, creating a strong, rigid member. This type of board can be cut and dried very quickly, providing a fast construction time and allowing the homeowner to install the boards without fear of the wood splintering, creating unsightly cracks, warping and distorting of the wood, causing unneeded trimming, or other types of repairs and maintenance.Other materials commonly used in softwood decking include redwood, cedar and river oak. These timbers are often used in decks to provide a distinctive look with a heavier feel than some of the other softwood varieties. Visit this site to get more info about Decking. Redwood is the most popular choice in North America, where it is known for its resistance to decay and insect infestation. Cedar is also popular for decks, providing a clean, fresh smell with a hint of herbal properties. Lastly, river oak is a very durable hardwood that has a very close, almost imperceptible grain, which makes it ideal for use in decks. Learn more from https://www.britannica.com/technology/deck-construction.