Decking Company
What is decking?
Decking is a flat surface that is typically constructed outdoors and connected to a building. It is capable of supporting weight, similar to a floor.
Decks are often elevated from the ground and made from treated timber, composite material, and aluminium. They can be used in a number of ways, such as part of garden landscaping, to extend the living area of a house, and as an alternative to stone-based features such as patios.
Decking is a great alternative to patio's if the land or area where installation is needed, is uneven or slopped. This is due to the deck area usually being raised above the ground level and fixed to its support posts which are secured to the ground. The posts can be secured at different lengths to accommodate the undulation of the ground whilst also maintaining a level deck.
Decking also has other uses besides being used in and around residential properties. Traditionally the term deck is from its usage aboard boats as the top 'Deck' is made in the similar processes. Other uses are for piers into the sea and also along the beach front, roof top terraces, stairs and bridges.
Decking is available in many different styles, sizes and colours. Below we will look at what the most popular options are.
Timber Decking
Timber decking is a type of construction material used to build outdoor decks. It can be manufactured using a wide variety of hard and soft wood species, depending on the desired appearance and properties of the finished structure. Timber decking gives outdoor structures a natural rustic look that cannot be achieved with metal or composite materials.
Hardwood species such as cedar and teak are among the most popular materials used for timber decking. These woods offer natural resistance to mould and moisture that enhance the deck's strength and durability. While these species tend to be fairly expensive, they last longer and require less maintenance than more affordable materials such as oak. These exotic hardwoods also offer rich natural colouring without the need for stains or sealants.
Some homeowners choose softwood timber decking made from pine or fir for its low cost and natural beauty. These softwoods are easy to work with, and often feature knots and other flaws that some buyers find appealing. Softwood timber decks don't offer the same level of strength and durability as hardwoods, and may not last as long. They are also more prone to rot and swelling due to moisture and humidity changes over time.
Composite Decking
Composite decking is a type of outdoor decking material that’s made from a mix of wood fibres, plastics and bonding agents. The resulting boards last longer than traditional timber decking and they are very low maintenance. The boards don’t have to be sealed, stained or painted and even in direct sunlight they won’t fade, warp or crack.
Your composite deck may not warp, but it can sag and buckle. To avoid this as best as possible, best practice is to make sure when installing the rafters on the framework that they are closer together to avoid the bend in the boards.
Composite decking is durable and resistant to rot and damp, this is due to the boards absorbing minimal amounts of water, which also means they are highly slip resistant.
Most composite deck boards will be much longer than wooden boards, because there is no fear of warpage and they are made in a vast range of colours.
Initial costs of composite decking materials will likely be higher to that of timber but, will have a better longevity.
Composite decking is an increasingly popular alternative to timber decking. It offers an authentic wood appearance and feels without the drawbacks of regular maintenance that comes with timber or wooden decking solutions.