Wood Decking Classification

Domestic Untreated

• Certain types of domestic woods make excellent decking material. Some species, however, such as cypress and redwood have been over-harvested, resulting in price increases. Western red cedar, one of the most prominent woods for decks, remains readily available and possesses a natural resistance to decay. Eastern red cedar, also called red juniper, has the same decay resistance as western red cedar and is a harder wood. These species typically do not come pressure-treated, as the chemicals used can mar their appearance. You can increase their durability with preservative stains.

Pressure-Treated Domestic

• A species such as pine offers very little durability when left exposed to the elements. Untreated pine subjected to rain might rot within two years. For this reason, manufacturers usually pressure-treat pine by injecting chemicals into the wood that resist damage from insects and moisture. Although treated pine does not show the rich natural color of cedar, it's less costly and can last 25 to 50 years with proper maintenance.

Foreign

• Some foreign woods find use as a material for decks. Ipe, also called Brazilian hardwood, has a strong natural resistance to decay and requires little maintenance. Philippine mahogany has an attractive brown color, but is not as durable as ipe and must undergo treatment with a waterproof stain to help it resist moisture. Teak, one of the most beautiful hardwoods for a deck, is quite expensive, since the supply has fallen due to excessive harvesting.

Imitation

• Wood is such a desirable material for building decks that manufacturers produce composite materials that mimic its appearance. Composite wood does contain wood fibers, but also a certain amount of plastic binder that helps protect the finished product from water and insect damage. A typical composite product contains about 30 to 50 percent plastic. Composites usually undergo staining and sealing during the manufacturing process and do not require any coating once installed.