3 Mistakes To Avoid When Choosing The Right Timber For Your Outdoor Deck

 Building a durable and beautiful outdoor deck starts with choosing the right timber. In this guide, we highlight 3 common mistakes to avoid. Whether you’re a homeowner or architect, get expert insights here!

The allure of alfresco seating has long been romanticised in classical architecture - from sprawling Roman terraces to English garden pavilions - and today, Outdoor Decking has found fresh expression in contemporary homes and commercial spaces. Outdoor Decks have become architects’ favourite for bringing character to open spaces. These elevated platforms have become an extension of a modern home for delivering functionality, without compromising on aesthetics. With increasing demand for functional outdoor areas, these open air decks have gained prominence for creating more usable living space. 

 

With a growing segment of the population becoming more environmentally-conscious, the demand for sustainable material for outdoor decking has substantially surged in recent years. Among materials like Composite Decking, which is made up of 95% recycled material and saw dust, Wood Decking has stood out as one of the most environmentally sustainable options. 

 

However, we understand that selecting the right timber for outdoor decking can often feel overwhelming, especially with the wide variety of options available. In this blog, we will highlight some of the most common mistakes homeowners make when selecting timber for their outdoor decks so that you can make an informed choice for your project! 

 

Mistake #1: Choosing Softwood for Outdoor Use 

 

One of the most common mistakes in decking projects is selecting softwood timber species with high natural movement. Softwood timber species, which are categorised with high movement, tend to warp, cup, knot or twist over time, negatively impacting the longevity of the structure. These characteristics result in more upkeep and high maintenance costs. 

 

Alternatively, one should opt for pressure-treated Thermo Wood, including Thermo Oak Decking & Thermo Ash Wood Decking,  which offer more stability and better performance. These hardwoods are specially treated to resist water absorption and withstand harsh weather conditions, making them far less susceptible to rotting, splitting, or warping. The result? A low-maintenance, long-lasting deck that retains its beauty and strength for decades.

 

Mistake #2: Choosing lumber that retains moisture 

 

Another common mistake that homeowners make when selecting timber for outdoor decking is choosing wood species that retain moisture. Wood that retains moisture is more prone to cracking, rotting and mould growth - especially in India where the tropical weather contributes to high humidity and significant rainfall. This compromises the structural integrity of the deck and increases maintenance needs. 

 

Innovations like Wood-Plastic Composite Decking (WPC Decking) are more suited options for outdoor decks in areas characterized with high rainfall and moisture. The plastic components in this material assure a completely water resistant surface. WPC Decking often incorporate advanced technologies and features such as specialised coatings or encapsulation to prevent water infiltration.

 

Mistake #3: Choosing non-FSC certified wood for your project 

 

To cut down on costs, homeowners often settle for low quality wood which typically also lacks  Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) Certification. Non-certified wood is sourced from unsustainable practices that contribute to deforestation, posing major environmental and ethical implications. The sub-par quality of this kind of wood further compromises the durability of the structure, while increasing maintenance expanses. 

 

Instead homeowners should ensure to procure FSC-certified wood which comes from sustainably managed forests that meet strict environmental standards for long-term forest conservation. FSC certified wood is often of higher quality, increased longevity and long-term value of your outdoor deck. Saraswati Wood proudly supplies FSC certified IPE Wood for Decking. 

 

It is important to choose hardwood species like IPE Wood & Cedar Wood that are naturally dense and resistant to water. IPE wood especially stands out as an ideal choice as it contains natural oils and tight grain structure that prevents moisture penetration, improving its stability and endurance. 

 

Where to buy timber for Outdoor Decking in India?

 

Hardwood or pressure-treated FSC - certified timber species, as well as WPC Decking, are the ideal choice when choosing timber for your outdoor decking project. Saraswati Wood (SW), a leading wood decking suppliers in Delhi, has over 100+ species of timber for all your cladding, decking, panelling & flooring needs. With a legacy of over 40 years, SW has emerged as India’s premier destination for wood! Their large network of distributors ensure delivery of finest quality timber across the country. 

 

Visit the websiteto know more or get in touch with our experts to know more Outdoor Decking tips!