Australia has different climatic areas; some areas have temperate climates while others witness wet tropical climates. It is therefore essential to factor in local climatic conditions to choose appropriate decking material. There is a variety of decking material available in the market; some are good for outdoor usage while others are not.
You will also come across various options to enhance the potential of your deck by using anything from hardwood to capped composite material.
Let Us Have A More Detailed Look Into Different Types Of Decking Material Available To Choose From.
SPOTTED GUM – It is one of the most commonly used hardwoods in Australia for decking. This type of wood grows plantation-style, so it is a good choice for those who are looking for an environmentally friendly option. It comes in beautiful grain structure, color tones, and attractive markings that make it extremely loved by designers and architects. Various color tones allow you to choose the best that goes well with your home décor. It is tough and dense, so it is best if you live in areas that are prone to bush fires. Also, it is able to perform quite well in the unpredictable climate of Australia. It allows minimal staining and you can use a natural timber oil to treat it when required.
TEAK – It is one of the best performing hardwood materials for decking that goes very well in the Australian climate, but it is the most expensive timber. When teak is cut, it releases a viscous fluid known as sap that protects the wood from insects and fungus. It is best to use teak for above-ground deck options that are often exposed to these threats. As teak is very durable and tough and holds on screws and nails very tightly, rest assured your deck is going to be strong and sturdy that will last for years to come. It has a beautiful pale color that goes very well with mild staining and oiling.
BLACKBUTT – This is another hardwood option for decking. Because of its fire-resistant properties, this straight grain and even textured wood are best to use in fire zone areas. It comes in a range of colors from yellowish-brown to light brown, and you can use timber oil with a silver tint to maintain its beautiful natural color. It grows quickly in the form of plantations, so it doesn’t contribute to deforestation. It is one of the best environmentally friendly options for making deck projects that have gained popularity over the years because of its strength and durability.
GREY IRONBARK – It has got its name from its silvery grey color. This is also high-density timber just like spotted gum, thus it is heavy and durable; though sometimes its heaviness makes it difficult to work with. It is brittle and tends to warp and split; so, it performs well only in areas that are not exposed to rain and sunshine. However, it is highly resistant to fire, termite, and rots and this makes it a great option for decking.
JARRAH – This is also a very dense, hard, and durable type of hardwood making it a good fit for decking. It grows very slowly as compared to Blackbutt; therefore, it is available in limited quantities and is very expensive also. It is naturally resistant to weather, rot, and termites making it a good option for your deck. Its deep red color beautifully differentiates it from other types of wood.
The above mentioned was a basic informative guide about different types of wood material that can be used for your decking projects. Make sure to consult your builder or contractor before making the final purchase.