Maintaining a Wood Deck
A wood deck is a great way to enjoy the outdoors. Traditional wood decks are constructed from a variety of species, from softwoods to exotic hardwoods. Hardwoods outperform softwoods in durability, weather-resistance and longevity. However, they typically cost more upfront than their softwood counterparts. They also require annual maintenance to keep them looking good. Choosing Your Materials Building a deck is a big project to tackle and there are many things to consider. The type of materials, budget, timeline and design are just a few of the main factors that will dictate your deck’s final look and function. Wood is a cost-effective construction material that allows for maximum flexibility in terms of design and layout. Wood is also a naturally beautiful material that can be stained to match the natural surroundings on your property. The least expensive wood is pressure-treated pine, which is rot and insect resistant. However, this wood is prone to shrinking and warping over ...