Sage-Tips

Which is best hardwood or softwood decking?

Oak is a common example of a hardwood. Softwood derives from species of trees which are faster growing and are often conifers and evergreens such as pine and spruce. In general, hardwood decking will outperform softwood decks when it comes to overall “toughness” as they are extremely durable.

Is softwood good for decking?

Trees like spruce and pine are the go-to materials for many craftsmen, but these types of softwoods, among many others, require treatment to defend against fungus and insects. Softwood decking is a quick and easy decking solution if you’re not too concerned with life span.

What are the disadvantages of hardwood?

Disadvantages of Hardwood:

• Hardwoods are more expensive than softwoods but for quality, you can use this.
• Due to its density more difficult to work with hardwood.
• It can be noisy when walking across it if used for flooring.
• These woods have a slow growth rate.

How long will softwood last outside?

Durability is key Most British garden decking is made from commercially treated softwoods, in other words ‘tanalised’. And it usually comes with a 15 year guarantee against rot, perfectly achievable as long as you look after it and treat any cut surfaces.

What is the difference between softwood and hardwood decking?

Hardwood is sourced from slow growing trees, which are often referred to as broadleaved trees and Softwood comes from faster growing, evergreen or coniferous trees. …

How long does soft wood decking last?

Hardwood decking has known to last over 40 years, although pressure treated softwood can last just as long if it’s treated well. Left untreated, softwood decking can last between 10 to 15 years, so over time hardwood can be a more economical material.

How do you maintain a softwood deck?

Maintenance is important for softwood decking Softwood should be thoroughly cleaned twice a year to ensure it lasts, applying proper cleaning solutions, wood preservative and decking oils as needed (usually annually, but dependant on weather and traffic conditions for your deck).

Is softwood more sustainable than hardwood?

Softwoods take less time to grow, which means that it’s easier to replenish those that are cut down. They are therefore generally a more sustainable option of timber than hardwoods.

What are the advantages of hardwood over softwood?

Strength: The trees’ dense cellular structure gives the timber incredible strength. Appearance: Hardwood timber is available in a range of colours and finishes, and will suit almost any contemporary style setting. Fire resistance: Hardwood timber offers a higher fire resistance than softwood.

How do you maintain softwood?

Softwood is usually made from pine, making it less durable and expensive. It tends to last about a decade when well-cared-for. To maintain it for as long as possible, you should originally treat it with a wood preservative, followed by a furniture oil.

Does hardwood rot faster than softwood?

Hardwood comes from angiosperm — or flowering plants — such as oak, maple, or walnut, that are not monocots. Softwood comes from gymnosperm trees, usually evergreen conifers, like pine or spruce….Comparison chart.

	Hardwood	Softwood
Growth	Hardwood has a slower growth rate.	Softwood has a faster rate of growth.

How long will a hardwood deck last?

Decking should last at least 15 years if left unstained or unpainted. When given adequate protection in the form of a good stain or oil, the lifespan of your deck is extremely long. To make sure your deck lives a full life, and retains its good looks into old age, it’s important to choose the right timber for the job.