Timber Decking Sheffield

When you hear softwood decking, then you should know we are referring to coniferous or evergreen trees. They are a fast-growing species, and they include pine and spruce. Before decking, softwood is well treated to prevent it from being overrun by diseases and insects. Many homeowners prefer softwood decking for several reasons. These include the low cost of installation, and when it is pressure treated, softwood decking has a long lifespan. However, softwood decking has its weaknesses. Firstly, softwood decking isn't best for high traffic areas as it tends to lose its shine with high traffic. There is also a need for regular maintenance to preserve the lifespan. Nonetheless, softwood decking is still preferred by many as it's easy to work with.

Unlike softwood decking, hardwood decking is made out of slow-growing trees. These types of trees include oak, ash, and other broadleaved trees. The long time it takes to grow these types of trees is responsible for the high cost of hardwood decking. Even though it's not budget-friendly, hardwood decking is a long-term investment that will pay off over time. The strength of hardwood decking lies in its quality, durability, fire-resistant, and limitless design options. Hardwood decking has a natural look that gets better with time. Hardwood decking is quite expensive from the point of cost comparison to softwood, and the installation process is not as straight forward, adding to cost. However, the natural resistance to insects and rot means that less maintenance is required compared to softwood - as it does not need to be treated in the same way. Hardwood will also have a tendency to darken over time.

Whilst not as well known layered timber deck boards are also an option. Timber decking has a tendency to become a little slippery when wet (especially if it has not been kept clean from mould and algae). To overcome this risk timber deck boards are available with slip resistant options. The two most common are the addition of a small layer of artificial grass or a small layer of rubber. You may think that this will affect the aesthetics of your decking and depending on personal taste this may well be the case but bear this in mind and perhaps this could be an option for steps if you have these in your decking design.

There is a need for regular and proper maintenance to get the most out of your decking, whether hardwood or softwood. Following installation keeping an eye on the effect of the elements and keeping on top of this shouldn’t be too much of a chore. Decking under trees may well be subjected to more autumnal debris as well as bird deposits and it’s important that they do not get the opportunity to form a base on which moss, algae and other weeds could grow from. You will need to refinish your decking periodically to maintain the hue. There will also be the need for regular deep cleaning to remove all stains and dirt. As soon as you see any screw, nails, or fasteners, get it fixed immediately. Staying on top of cleaning and maintenance will ensure you get the most out of your decking and ensure its longevity. Note that whether you settle for hardwood or softwood decking, maintenance is still essential but much less will be required with hardwood. The other alternative is to go for wood effect composite decking.