You’re a skilled building contractor responsible for a huge project at a lodge where you need to build a durable deck for five different lodges. However, it’s a modern, five-star lodge, and your client won’t expect anything less than pristine decks built with exceptional quality wood. One of the most important decisions you’ll make when constructing a deck is choosing the right decking material. The material you select will greatly influence your deck’s longevity, appearance, and maintenance needs.

In this blog, we will explore eight premier decking material options that will help you construct a highly long-lasting deck.

8 Durable decking material options

Each of the following eight options has its unique advantages. Consider your budget, maintenance preferences, and the aesthetics you desire for your outdoor space when making your decision.

Massaranduba Decking

Look: Massaranduba (Hardwood), also known as Brazilian Redwood, is known for its deep reddish-brown to dark brown color. Furthermore, it exhibits a straight grain and fine texture, which contributes to a polished appearance.

Style: Massaranduba decking exudes a sense of classic elegance. Its rich color and smooth finish make it an ideal choice for those who appreciate a timeless and sophisticated look. It’s often used in high-end residential and commercial projects where durability and aesthetics are paramount.

Durability: Massaranduba is highly durable and resistant to rot, decay, and insect damage. It has a Class A fire rating, indicating excellent fire resistance.

Maintenance: Low to moderate maintenance. To maintain its colour you should regularly clean it and occasionally seal it.

Jatoba Decking

Look: Jatoba (Hardwood), or Brazilian Cherry, boasts a striking reddish-brown to orange-brown color with darker streaks. Its interlocked grain pattern and medium to fine texture create a visually captivating surface.

Style: Jatoba is synonymous with luxury and opulence. The intense color and distinctive grain patterns make it a statement choice for decks. It’s favored by homeowners who want a bold and upscale aesthetic that draws attention to their outdoor space.

Durability: Jatoba is very durable and naturally resistant to decay and insects. It has a Class A fire rating.

Maintenance: Low to moderate maintenance. Regular cleaning and periodic resealing or staining are advised for color preservation.

Garapa Decking

Look: Garapa (Hardwood), often referred to as Brazilian Ash, starts with a golden to yellow-brown hue when newly installed, gradually aging to a silvery-gray if left untreated. Its straight, uniform grain adds to its appeal.

Style: Garapa offers a bright and welcoming appearance. Its versatility makes it suitable for a range of design styles, from contemporary to traditional. You can customize it through staining to maintain its original golden color or enhance its gray patina.

Durability: Garapa is durable and naturally resistant to decay and insects. It has a Class A fire rating.

Maintenance: Low maintenance. You can leave it to weather naturally to a silver-gray color or periodically clean and apply a finish to maintain its golden hue.

Balau Decking

Look: Balau (Hardwood), also called Yellow Balau, exhibits a yellow to brown color with occasional streaks. It typically has a straight grain and a moderately coarse texture.

Style: Balau decking has a tropical feel. Its warm color and natural variations in grain make it well-suited for outdoor spaces aiming to capture a relaxed, island-like atmosphere. It’s commonly used in poolside decks and coastal settings.

Durability: Balau is durable and has natural resistance to decay and insects. It is often used in coastal applications.

Maintenance: Low to moderate maintenance. Regular cleaning and occasional resealing are recommended to preserve its appearance.

Itauba Decking

Look: Itauba (Hardwood) ranges in color from yellow-brown to olive-brown. It features a pronounced interlocked grain pattern and has a fine texture.

Style: Itauba stands out for its unique and visually interesting appearance. It’s an excellent choice for those who seek a distinctive deck style that departs from traditional hardwood options. It’s often used in contemporary or modern design settings.

Durability: Itauba is durable and naturally resistant to decay and insects. People also often prefer this wood product because of its strength and toughness.

Maintenance: Low to moderate maintenance. You should clean your deck regularly and seal it occasionally to maintain its unique appearance.

Red Grandis Decking

Look: Red Grandis (Hardwood) boasts a reddish-brown hue, offering a warm and inviting appearance. Its grain can vary from straight to interlocked, and it has a moderately coarse texture.

Style: Red Grandis provides a classic look that radiates comfort and tradition. It’s a sustainable alternative to tropical hardwoods and is ideal for homeowners who appreciate a timeless and eco-friendly deck option.

Durability: Red Grandis is moderately durable and has good resistance to decay and insects. It is a sustainable choice.

Maintenance: Low to moderate maintenance. You should clean your deck regularly and seal it occasionally for proper protection.

Pressure-Treated Pine Decking

Look: Pressure-treated pine (Softwood) initially has a greenish tint but eventually weathers to a natural wood color. It features a relatively straight grain and a medium texture.

Style: Pine has a rustic and casual appearance that suits various outdoor settings, from traditional to informal. While it may not have the peculiar appeal of tropical hardwoods, it remains a practical and budget-friendly choice.

Durability: Pressure-treated pine is durable due to chemical treatment against rot and insects. However, it may not be as long-lasting as tropical hardwoods.

Maintenance: Low maintenance. Routine cleaning and resealing or staining every 1-2 years help maintain its appearance and durability.

With the right decking material, you can create a durable and inviting deck that will serve as a focal point for outdoor enjoyment for years to come.

Conclusion…

Now that you know the differences, you should be able to decide which would work best for your project. We supply all the above-mentioned decking products, if you are unsure of any of them, feel free to contact us.

That’s not all! We also supply all the hardware accessories that you may need to successfully complete your deck building project. Fore some more tips on timber decking feel free to read the following blog post about using the correct screws for your deck: