Which Timber Is Best For Decking- Softwood vs Hardwood
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Is your garden ready for the summer? You are probably already thinking about those weekend gatherings, dining al fresco and enjoying the surrounding nature. However, if you feel like something is missing we may know just what you need to make your outdoor space the beautiful and relaxing spot you’ve always envisioned.
Timber decking is a strong theme in contemporary landscaping. In recent years it has introduced the indoor-outdoor blend trend to the UK lifestyle. If you are looking for a stunning, more modern looking alternative to the traditional terraces and patios, you need looking no further.
There are several factors you need to consider before choosing the material you are going to use to build your new decking. Depending on your budget and intended application you may decide between softwood or hardwood. They both have pros and cons, but the general rule to choose a good timber species is ensuring its properties are suitable for exterior application. It must be rot resistance and able to endure rain and sunlight, all whilst being aesthetically appealing.
Softwood Timber Decking
If you have a limited budget, softwoods may be the right option for you. Softwood species come from fast-growing trees which means that it is generally easier and quicker to produce than hardwood and is, therefore, cheaper.
In general, softwood requires much more maintenance. This involves regular cleaning and applying oil treatments which will prolong its life making it last up to 25 years.
However, there are species more durable than others such as Thermowood, Siberian Larch or Cedar which have weather-resistant properties.
Hardwood Timber Decking
As you’ve probably already guessed, contrary to softwood, hardwood comes from slower growing trees. This decking timber is extremely durable and will undoubtedly outperform softwood every time. It can turn out to be a more expensive solution in the short term, however, its longevity and reduced maintenance requirements can make it more economical in the long-term. If you are interested in learning all about hardwood please check out our “Hardwood Types, Uses, Advantages & Disadvantages” article.
Build Your Dream Garden Decking
At Sunningdale Timber, we not only supply high-quality timber for a variety of projects but also design and manufacture garden decking to suit any garden size. Get in touch today to discuss your vision and get your outdoor space ready to enjoy not only during summer but all year round.