A timber deck is a beautiful aesthetic and functional addition to any home which has the space. However, creating a result which complements your home, stands the test of time and fits within your budget can be a tricky balance. Discover which timber decking advantages in Adelaide best suit your plans.
One of the most obvious divisions in timber is that of hardwood and softwood. It may come as no surprise that hardwood timber is far more expensive, and this is because it stands up very well in extreme weather conditions over long periods of time. This common knowledge is often enough to convince builders to choose a hardwood, as a little extra expense at this stage is seen as being worth it for many more years of enjoyment. There are some other differences between hardwoods and softwoods which are not as commonly known. For example, hardwoods are much harder to work with during the building stage. These trees take longer to grow, and this slow speed results in a very dense timber. You may encounter difficulty in cutting these timbers without state of the art industry machinery. A professional may be the best person to talk to about hardwood decking, while DIY projects may steer towards softwoods.
Some of the hardwoods that professionals recommend include Kapur and Swan River Red. Kapur is imported from Indonesia, and is therefore of excellent value for money. This timber is popular for its pale brown hue with a red tinge. The timber has a freckled, very grainy texture which adds subtle character to a deck. Swan River Red is a more striking timber featuring stunning deep reds for a bold statement. The texture is distinctly of streaks and swirls blended across the surface. This is a popular choice for those who are looking to include a number of timber accents throughout the property, because it is a popular choice equally for decking and gates or fencing. There are over a hundred different species of hardwood, and without a clear idea in mind it can be a little overwhelming. Softwoods offer plenty of variation but certainly narrow down the options to a manageable selection. Softwoods are also much easier to season, which leads us to the next point.
Seasoning your wood, and doing it properly, is crucial for a lasting timber deck. Green or unseasoned material will gradually lose its natural moisture, and this process causes the wood to warp and shrink. For DIYers, it is a good idea to have your timber professionally seasoned or buy it ready done. Drying the wood too quickly in a kiln will make it unstable and even dangerous, especially as a flooring option. Timber can season naturally if left outside to dry, although needs to be stacked properly to allow the warmth of the air to circulate evenly. This is also a time consuming job, taking six to nine months.
Because timbers vary so widely, they are rated to give buyers a good idea of their usability and preferred conditions. An H or Hazard rating categorises timbers into how susceptible they are to threats such as infestations and moulds or fungi. Anything of a H3 rating or higher (H4, H5 or H6) is suitable for outdoor decking. H3 is specifically resistant to moderate decay, as well as termites and borers. If your timber is in direct contact with the earth, choose an H4, or with a water supply, choose H5. As well as Hazard ratings, timber carries a natural durability rating. There are four classes, with Class 1 being the most durable. Timber decking and especially footings should be as durable as possible, so Class 1 or Class 2. For a Professional Decking Consultation in Adelaide.
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