| The article discusses different types of wood used | | | | Lightweight |
| for building decks. Some of the wood types | | | | Softwood |
| discussed include redwood and ipe. Summer is just | | | | Available in several grades |
| around the corner and there isn’t a better | | | | High decay resistance |
| time to start planning to build a deck. Building a deck | | | | Tight grained with few knots in the wood |
| is a great way to increase the value of your home. If | | | | Prolonged exposure to moisture can cause |
| built, installed and maintained well, a deck can last for | | | | the wood to blacken |
| a few decades. One of the ways to ensure that | | | | Sealer required to prevent blackening |
| your deck is built well is by selecting a durable type | | | | Mahogany |
| of wood for the deck. There are several good-quality | | | | Color: Dark red |
| woods on the market that are typically used for | | | | Woven look |
| decks. These include: western red cedar, redwood, | | | | Must be graded for outdoor use |
| mahogany and ipe. | | | | Consult with a professional carpenter |
| Each homeowner has a different reason for selecting | | | | regarding the authenticity of the mahogany you are |
| the specific type of wood used for their deck. | | | | interested in. Not all mahogany is authentic and should |
| Decide which of the following factors are most | | | | be checked. |
| important for you: | | | | Ipe |
| Durability | | | | Color: Red-brown and weather to a |
| Color | | | | silver-gray |
| Wearability | | | | South American |
| Eco-friendliness | | | | Extremely strong and durable |
| Cost | | | | Resists chipping and splintering |
| Hardwood or softwood | | | | More expensive than most wood types and |
| Types of Deck Wood: | | | | installation is also higher. |
| Western Red Cedar | | | | Can last 20 years. |
| Color: Red-brown but ages to a silvery gray | | | | Important Considerations: |
| Softwood | | | | Pressure-treated wood or lumber — |
| Available in several grades | | | | Decide which is best for your needs. Pressure-treated |
| Decay resistant | | | | wood resists rot and repels pests. However, some |
| Quick to weather | | | | homeowners do not favor it because it has a |
| Sealer required to prevent weathering | | | | blue-green tint that many find unattractive. Typically, |
| Can last 30 years | | | | homeowners select treated wood for the frame and |
| Redwood | | | | supports, and lumber for the floors, railings and steps. |
| Color: Available in several shades from red | | | | Budget — Make a budget for your |
| to dark red-brown. Weathers to a yellow-red and in | | | | deck planning and building. This will usually help to |
| some cases gray. | | | | narrow down your selection. |