With beautiful sunny weather throughout the year, outdoor living plays a large role in the life of many Australians. Lots choose to install timber decking in order to make their outdoor spaces as welcoming as and comfortable as their indoor ones. The combination of aesthetically pleasing wooden designs, durability, and functionality make them an excellent choice. They are also good for home values.
However, if you decide that timber decking is something your home needs, there are a few decisions that you will need to make. Perhaps the most important one is the type of wood to use. There are several options, including hardwood, softwood, and treated wood. This will have an effect on how your decking looks, the amount of maintenance it needs, and the price of the job.
This blog will take a look at the factors which make Australian hardwood a great option for timber decking.
Weather resistance
The durability of Australian hardwood is well-known and is one of the major reasons it is such a popular choice for decking. Natural oils and dense grain found in the wood are very resistant wear and tear, including that caused by harsh weather conditions. Whether it’s had the hot sun beating down on it all day or it’s been soaked by a subtropical storm, hardwood tends to emerge unscathed.
Deters pests
The natural oils found in Australian hardwood keep termites, fungi, and other pests from making it their home. This prevents it from being damaged, once again rendering it more durable than other types of wood.
Low maintenance
Keeping it clean and occasionally sealing it are often all that is required by homeowners to maintain their hardwood decking. This is generally enough to keep it safe, sturdy, and looking good. As discussed above, it is able to withstand hard weather and protect itself from pests, which makes it very low maintenance.
Cost effective
The fact that it lasts so long and rarely needs repairs can also make it a more cost-effective solution than other woods, even though you typically have to pay a premium for it.
Eco-friendly
When you purchase Australian structural hardwood in Brisbane or anywhere else in the country, you know that it has never been shipped or flown, which already makes it greener than other choices. You can also find suppliers whose hardwood is sourced sustainably, for example by replacing the trees which have been logged.
Range of colours
Hardwood comes in several varieties, all of which are naturally pleasing to the eye. For example, Jarrah is a deep red colour while Spotted Gum has a warm brown hue. Over time the colours become less vibrant but not in an unpleasant, dull way. Many people think they look better with age and leave them untreated.
Grain patterns
The different types of hardwood have different grain patterns too, and no two pieces of hardwood are ever identical. These patterns also add to the aesthetic appeal.
Conclusion
Whether you’re looking for better ways to enjoy your outdoor space or preparing to sell, hardwood decking can be an excellent choice. Maintaining decks and balconies can be a chore, but with hardwood you’ll hardly need to do this at all, plus it looks great and can really elevate your home.
