Hardwood or Softwood Timber Decking choices

Timber decking can create a massive style effect for your home and the timber you choose can work as a design feature. Different types of timber present their own diverse colour spectrum to choose from, unique grains, and special characteristics. There are three main types of timber decking to choose from, which are hardwood, softwood, and composite (resin and timber).

The type of timber you choose for your decks and decking depend on numerous factors such as the climate, where your live, what your deck will be used for, the sort of deck you want to build and so on. It also depends whether you’re looking for visual appeal, durability and longevity, or ease of working  amd budget or affordability constraints.

A fantastic deck building design is undoubtedly most important for a great looking deck, but the type of timber also plays a big role. When it comes to picking the prettiest timber, nothing is better than natural hardwood. The colour and characteristics of natural hardwood speak for themselves.

Composite decking is also attractive but is not as vibrant as natural hardwood. Softwood decking is a good option when you want customisable stains as they can be stained with any colour and further treated with a clear natural look. Don’t overlook maintenance considerations with softwood is that they won’t last for very long and need to be retreated and re-stained regularly.

Durability is something important to consider, especially when timber decks are generally fully exposed to the weather. Hardwood is the most durable out of the three types as it is long wearing and more resistant to weathering, without the need for much maintenance. Hardwood decks last 15-20 years before they become unsafe. Composite decking claims to last 20-25 years but since it hasn’t been around for very long, it’s hard to say if it truly does.

With timber decking prices being most expensive for composites, hardwood would be more value for durability and longevity. Your choice of timber may also highly depend on how easy it is to work with. Although hardwood is durable, it is difficult to cut and splits easily when care is not taken in nailing and screwing. They also need to be drilled first prior to any nailing or screwing. Softwood decks on the other hand, are the easiest to work with. They cut, nail, and screw well, plus they come in long lengths, making fewer joints in your overall decking.

For quality craftsmanship and construction, you can trust all your decking needs to the professional handymen at Simplicty by Design.  Take a look at the variety of deck timbers available here: Timber types and stains

We find that the most suitable timber for decking in Melbourne areas and the whole of Australia in general, are Native Australian hardwoods. These are seasoned for the conditions of Australia and are excellent for their high rigidity, durability, resistance to fungi and insects, and also suitable for bushfire-prone areas.

If you need any decking ideas or advice, our qualified consultants at Simplicity by Design will always be on hand to help, so please don’t hesitate to contact us.