When buying wood for decking, you need to look for kiln-dried lumber. The nominal size of a 2x6 board is 4x4 inches, but you can find a few pieces smaller. Be sure to measure the length of each board and add ten percent to the total decking and framing quantity. Exotic species like teak, reclaimed barn wood, and hemlock are stronger than domestic wood, but they are more expensive. Also, you need to account for saw kerf when cutting several lengths from a board.
Considering the cost, the type of wood you choose will have a huge impact on the overall durability of your deck. There are many factors to consider when choosing the material for your deck, from price to resistance to insects and moisture. Choosing the best wood depends on your budget and climate, as well as whether you are willing to dedicate the time necessary to maintain it. If you can afford it, choose redwood, which is 25 percent more expensive than sapwood.
Another option is to buy sustainable wood. Hardwood species, such as Ipe, are harvested illegally from old-growth forests in South America. This isn't environmentally sustainable, but some deck builders still use it because of its durability and stunning appearance. Look for a product with a FSC stamp. Hardwoods are beautiful but will fade in UV light, making them unsuitable for outdoor use. You can also buy wood that is certified by the Forest Stewardship Council.
If you're buying lumber for the structural part of your deck, pressure-treated lumber is a better choice. These woods are rot resistant and can span much further than other woods. Additionally, they are cheaper. Pressure-treated lumber is graded based on the amount of preservative it contains per cubic foot. A higher number means better protection from insects and fungi. Lower grade woods can be warped or shrink. Click here and find more helpful tips for your ipe decking construction.
Cedar is another choice. Cedar is a soft, durable wood that is naturally resistant to insects and rot. However, cedar can be too soft for decking, and it can splinter easily. It's best used for vertical elements, such as privacy fences, pergolas, and planters. The Rainforest Relief organization has warned against cutting old-growth cedar. It is also highly flammable.
Exotic hardwoods are expensive and difficult to source. You can search for products certified by the Forest Stewardship Council. Buying sustainable ipe wood siding from these countries is a good idea. Unlike North American wood, tropical hardwoods are resistant to insects and rot. They also last longer. The cost of tropical hardwood is higher than other hardwoods, so be sure to consider the price before you buy it. So, if you have the money, go for it.
When choosing hardwood for your deck, you should consider moisture content and grade. Generally, tropical hardwoods like mahogany and ipe are more expensive than domestic woods. They're very durable, but they're not easy to install and require a pilot. You can't nail or screw them in without a pilot, so be sure to check the lumber's moisture content before buying it. A good plan is to select a wood species that's compatible with the rest of your project.
Discover more on this topic by clicking here: https://www.britannica.com/dictionary/deck.
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