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Wood decking remains a timeless and favored choice for our Maryalnd and Delaware homeowners due to its natural aesthetic, charm, warmth, and authenticity. Beyond its visual allure, wood decking offers a unique character that evolves over time, gaining a beautiful patina with weathering. The versatility of wood allows for customization through staining or painting, enabling customers to achieve their desired look, or change looks throughout the years. Despite the emergence of composite materials, wood decking remains a timeless choice for your outdoor space.
Types of Wood Decking
Pressure-Treated Wood and Ipe
Pressure-treated wood undergoes a process where preservatives are infused deep into the wood fibers under high pressure, making it highly resistant to rot, insect damage, and fungal decay. This treatment significantly extends the lifespan of the wood, allowing it to withstand harsh weather conditions and heavy use. Pressure-treated wood is typically made from softwoods like pine, making it a versatile and budget-friendly option for decking projects. While it requires regular maintenance, such as sealing and staining, many homeowners appreciate its natural wood look and the ability to customize it with various finishes. With proper care, a pressure-treated wood deck can provide a durable and attractive outdoor space for many years.
PRESSURE TREATED DECKS
Pressure-treated wood is wood that has been infused with chemical preservatives to protect the wood from rot and insects. The wood is placed in a depressurized holding tank that removes the air and replaces it with a preservative. The most important thing to understand about this pressure treatment is that the process is, by far, the best way to avoid harmful rot and insects, but does not prevent weathering and corrosion.
IPE DECKING
Ipe (pronounced “e-pay”, also known as Brazilian Walnut), is the most sought after tropical hardwood decking in the United States today. An Ipe deck is the “king” of South American hardwood decking – the gold standard for fine exterior decking.
Typically used for decking, docks and other outdoor applications, Ipe is one of the most dense, durable hardwoods in the world, lasting for decades in service. Ipe decking is even used commercially for municipal projects such as the boardwalk in Atlantic City, due to its naturally durable properties. Since Ipe is 100% natural wood, it is recyclable at the end of its service life.
Ipe has rich dark colors, so it not only lasts a long time but has the beauty of a fine interior wood. If Ipe is allowed to age, it will turn to a silver/gray patina over time. Its color can be brought back to its original shade with the use of a deck cleaner/brightening system and application of a hardwood finish specifically formulated for Ipe and other exotic hardwoods.
Wood Deck Maintenance
Wood decking, while beautiful and natural, requires regular maintenance to preserve its appearance and structural integrity. Key maintenance tasks include cleaning, staining, and sealing the wood to protect it from the elements. Over time, exposure to sun, rain, and temperature fluctuations can cause wood to fade, warp, and crack. Staining helps to maintain the deck’s color and prevent UV damage, while sealing provides a protective barrier against moisture, which can lead to rot and mold. Additionally, periodic inspections are necessary to identify and replace any damaged or splintered boards and to tighten loose screws or nails. Regular cleaning is also important to remove dirt, debris, and mildew, which can make the surface slippery and unattractive. By staying on top of these maintenance tasks, homeowners can extend the life and beauty of their wood decking, ensuring a safe and enjoyable outdoor space.
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