Are you are considering having a new deck installed next year and wondering about your decking material options? This brief article compares hardwood and softwood decking to help you decide if either choice is right for you. Both hardwood and softwood decking can be used to create a beautiful outdoor oasis, but there are some major differences that are important to note.
Hardwood Decking
Hardwood decking is harvested from slow-growing trees that shed their leaves every autumn and winter. These deciduous trees are also called “broad-leaved” trees. Some of the most common examples of hardwood trees are oak, ash, cherry, and maple. Interestingly, when it comes to decking material, many people that choose to use hardwood decking also choose to use hardwood sourced from South America such as Ipe, Tigerwood, Batu, or Cumaru (wood types that are even harder, stronger, and more durable than the common types previously listed). Let’s take a look at the pros and cons of hardwood.
Pros of Hardwood
-Of all wood types, hardwood offers the highest quality natural options. Hardwood is extremely durable, resistant to insects, resistant to rot, strong, and even somewhat resistant to fire.
-While many wood types will scratch from hail, pets, shoes, and deck furniture, hardwood decking performs well when exposed to these things.
-Hardwood is beautiful. Each type has its own color and wood grain pattern, making your design options endless!
-Hardwood is more resistant to extreme temperatures and will expand/contract less than composites or plastics.
Cons of Hardwood
-Because hardwood is difficult to process and slow to grow, it is quite expensive.
-Since hardwood is so strong and dense, it is heavy and difficult to install. This slows down the deck building process and requires skill to handle.
-Hardwood may be hotter on bare feet than traditional wood decking. The harder and darker the wood, the hotter it will become in direct sunlight.
-Hardwood requires regular oil/sealant to maintain its vibrant color. Hardwood is not a low-maintenance decking option.
Softwood Decking
Softwood decking is sourced from faster-growing trees such as cedar, spruce, and pine. These types of trees are also called coniferous or evergreen trees. What are the pros and cons of softwood decking?
Pros of Softwood Decking
-Because softwood grows faster and is easier to process, it is more readily available at a much cheaper price.
-Softwood is easy to work with and install. This allows the deck building process to be faster.
-If well maintained, softwood can still have an impressive lifespan and be a durable option.
Cons of Softwood
-Softwood is just that– “soft”—so it is quicker to scratch or fade.
-Softwood is weaker than hardwood.
-Softwood requires regular maintenance (cleaning, staining, and sealing) to last. Softwood decking that is not well maintained will quickly fade into a grey color, rot, and otherwise decay.
-Softwood is more prone to warping and shrinking in direct sunlight.
Conclusion
Hopefully these facts are helpful as you consider your decking options! At Wymore Deck and Fence, we encourage our clients to become educated on all of their decking options. While both hardwood and softwood allow for a natural look and feel, composite and PVC decking can also afford their own beauty without any of the maintenance required by natural wood. If you haven’t already, check out our articles featuring composite and PVC decking facts or look into TimberTech and Fiberon decking options (our two high-quality composite decking sources).
If you prefer, give our team a call directly and we will help in any way we can!
