How to Choose the Right Wood for Your Deck
Building a deck is a big outdoor to-do, and you may want to do it yourself or hire a contractor. Either way, you’ll have to consider the size of the deck, its purpose and design, how it will be constructed, materials and cost. The type of wood you choose will play a significant role in the durability and look of your deck. Hardwoods — derived from deciduous trees such as Teak, Cherry and Oak — generally outperform softwoods in terms of durability. However, these types of wood can also be costly because they grow more slowly and are harder to find and ship. Cedar is a durable and beautiful softwood that protects your deck from the elements, including sun, rain and temperature fluctuations. It’s also easy to stain, giving you a variety of colors and textures. Over time, cedar ages to a silvery gray color that mimics the look of teak wood. When constructing the frame of your deck, avoid allowing beams to touch each other or they may rot over time. Instead, leave a small gap between the...