Decking boards

[edit] Introduction

The timber merchants and board makers have been in dilemma and confusion for years regarding the type of materials to be used in the making of decking boards. The one option always available is the wooden decking board. But then the struggle is to choose from the variety of woods available in the market.

[edit] Types of decking boards

There are many choices when it comes to the size, material, composition and colour, but there are other matters as well - cost, durability, eco-friendliness, maintenance and so on.

[edit] Pressured softwood

This product made by applying pressure to the softwood. This product is popular with customers for its price, durability and ease of installation. However, it is generally not environmentally friendly and can require a significant amount of maintenance.

[edit] Harwood

This variety, which is made from tropical trees, is generally more expensive than pressured boards. This type of board is considered safe from rotting, warping and splitting but it does require some degree of regular maintenance. It is not environmentally friendly and can be difficult to install.

[edit] Composite

These boards are made of wood flour and plastic that is recyclable. These boards are protected from mould, moisture and insects and are easy to maintain and install. However, this type of decking can be expensive and is thought to be harmful to the environmental development.

[edit] PVC

These boards are similar to the composite boards and are made only by a single material-plastic, which makes it easy to maintain. It is not prone to warping or splitting. It can be expensive and may look artificial. It is considered environmentally friendly, easy to install and easy to maintain.

[edit] How to decide

When it comes to choosing a decking board, customers can choose depending on priorities and use. People who want boards that are long-lasting may wish to select composite and PVC boards that have zero wood. People looking for easily installable boards may prefer to choose softwoods. In the case of people looking for environmentally friendly boards, keep in mind that every board has some negative effect on the environment, but the least harmful ones are PVC boards, which are made from recycled plastic and can be recycled further, too.

[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki

• Composites.
• Deck.
• Hardwood.
• Modified wood.
• Polyvinyl chloride PVC.
• Softwood.
• The use of timber in construction.