Wood has an exquisite beauty that will transform any garden into an idyllic scene, further enhanced by eye-catching garden furniture and accent pieces made of wood. The wooden deck Adelaide characteristic cracks, knots and whorls add charm and character to its design.
Durability
An oil or stain treatment on wood decking will extend its life. Keep debris and dirt at bay to avoid moisture damage and rot; clean up grease, food and drink spills promptly to prevent staining; periodically use wood brighteners to revitalise its surface and remove tannins; additionally, it’s wise to re-stain every few years using high-grade oil-based stain or sealer as opposed to water-based.
Redwood or cedar are considered the hardest and least vulnerable wood species for decks, less prone to scratching and denting than softwood alternatives. Although more expensive than composite or pressure-treated materials, they make for an attractive, low-maintenance outdoor space.
Mahogany decking is another popular choice, being more cost-effective and resistant to rot than cedar while not as likely to splinter or change colour over time. As many hardwoods originate in tropical forests whose trees may have been illegally cut down for commercial gain, when selecting your supplier, they must support responsible and sustainable forestry practices.
Maintenance
Wooden deck Adelaide adds charm and value to your home but requires ongoing care for optimum appearance. Regular inspections can detect problems before they become serious – check for signs of rot and insect infestation, especially in hard-to-see places like framing and ledger boards – inspect these using a flashlight and probe for signs of corrosion or other damage.
Wooden deck Adelaide should be stained or sealed once every two to three years to prevent greying and rotting. Still, an extended weathering period (60-90 days after installation) must pass before staining or sealing occurs since the wood will undergo changes that affect its adherence to stain.
Wood type for decking should also be an important consideration, with cedar and mahogany being harder than pine or redwood but still susceptible to rotting over time. Selecting wood certified by the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) ensures it comes from sustainable forests with minimal environmental impact.
Resealing should only be undertaken as part of an overall maintenance strategy for decks; debris and leaf litter removal from your deck regularly is also beneficial in increasing air circulation, helping prevent mildew growth. Avoid moving heavy furniture across your deck, as this could result in scratches and dents created by its heavy weight.
Aesthetics
Wood decks can add charm and value to any home. There are numerous styles and materials to choose from when building them, all depending on the style of the house and personal preferences. Cedar is a viral material because of its beauty, durability and selection of colours to stain for matching home decor – Plus, maintenance is relatively cheap and hassle-free!
Flowers can also add a colourful pop of colour and make your wood deck appear inviting and fresh, complementing furniture colours nicely and serving as focal points in the backyard. Lighting also works wonders in ensuring it looks nice at night, helping to enhance its enjoyment even further.
Consider glass or cable railings on your deck for an aesthetic with contemporary appeal. Not only does this design choice add modern flare, but it can also help break up large expanses of wood by breaking with visual interest and creating visual balance.
Cost
Costs associated with building a wooden deck will depend on the material chosen. Decks may be constructed of different varieties of wood, such as pine and Teak, and finished off using various coatings or varnishes; your choice will enormously impact how your deck appears. Popular choices for finishes include composites that mimic natural-looking wood grains while offering natural hues; these may cost slightly more but could potentially outlive traditional wood options due to longer-lasting results.
Pressure-treated lumber decks offer another economical solution, resisting rot and insects while being low maintenance. Cedar might be an even better if you prefer something more stylish as it ages beautifully; stained or painted cedar can also accentuate any home. Cedar can dent less efficiently than other hardwoods but still requires annual care to look good.