When choosing wood for your deck, it is important to consider several key criteria: durability, maintenance needs, weather resistance and aesthetics. Here is a quick overview of four eco-friendly and popular types of wood – heat-treated, charred, larch and spruce – to help you decide which wood is best for your deck.
1. Heat-treated wood (termo wood)
Heat-treated wood is heated to a high temperature, which modifies its properties, making it more resistant to moisture, rot and pests. It is an eco-friendly alternative because it is not treated with chemicals. Heat-treated wood is also quite durable and has a modern look, but can be more expensive than other alternatives.
2. Charred wood
Charred wood (Shou Sugi Ban) stands out for its unique appearance and natural preservation method, where the surface of the wood is briefly ignited. This provides excellent water and pest resistance, and makes the wood less likely to absorb moisture. Burnt wood is also low maintenance and is an ideal choice for those who want an aesthetically pleasing deck.
3. Larch
Larch is a very hardy type of wood, naturally resistant to rot and pests due to its oily composition. It is a very durable choice for a deck, with a beautiful greenish-brown color that takes on a silvery hue over time. Larch is one of the more expensive types of wood, but its durability and low maintenance requirements justify the higher price.
4. Spruce
Spruce is the most economical choice for a deck, but it requires more maintenance. Spruce absorbs moisture faster and is more prone to rotting than other types of wood. Regular impregnation and painting are necessary to maintain its resistance and appearance.
Summary
When choosing wood for your deck, it’s important to consider your location, climate, and maintenance options. Heat-treated and burned wood offers durability and low maintenance, while larch offers natural resilience and aesthetics. Simple spruce may be a good choice for those looking for a more economical option and are willing to put in the time to maintain it.