There are millions of homes in the UK who have some type of private garden sanctuary, be it small for those who tend to reside in the city, or bigger for those in the rural areas. In many UK gardens, decking is an integral part of getting that balance between green and natural look together with making practical use of space as it offers a reasonable alternative to hard landscaping. If you are considering garden decking at some point, here’s a handy guide to explain the various wood species who can cope with the UK weather and the elements.
Which wood species are suitable for decking and what to look out for:
Ipe Decking - Ipe (pronounced e-pay) decking originates from South America and is a very popular choice for decking on a budget without compromising on the look. Considered be the one of the hardest woods in the world (strength is three times harder than oak) it is recommended for all types of gardens and extremely popular for patios. Dark brownish olive to dark olive in appearance Ipe is popular as a decking material due to its insect resistance, durability and natural fire resistant.
Teak Decking - Teak Decking originates from Indonesia and is golden in color with dark markings and a straight grain. Teak wood boasts natural oils and therefore there's no need to use preservatives and sealants. It is recommended for gardens and outdoor pools. Over time it will take on a natural silver-gray patina color which truly adds class to any garden landscape project and will yield an startling exotic look.
Iroko Decking - Iroko decking also know as 'African Teak' originates from Africa and is an exotic stylish hardwood. Iroko is extremely durable and rich in color and appearance. Although initially yellow in colour it naturally weathers to a beautiful, brown chocolate color which will give your garden a special exotic zenic look. Recommended for all types of gardens and out-door uses, it has also been known to be used in the boat building industry vouching for its quality and durability.
Cumaru Decking - Also known as 'Brazilian Teak', Cumaru wood is native to South America and starts life as a deep red/yellow wood before turning into a classic silver-gray patina. Cumaru Decking is exceptionally strong material and it boasts a fire rating of Class A (the same as concrete or steel) which together with its anti-decay and anti-insect damage characteristics makes it ideal for decking.
Where to source the wood?
It is recommended to seek advice from a specialist supplier or contractor, so search the Internet and go to your local high street store. Look for decking companies and suppliers that have experience and can offer information and prices. Prices and quality will vary so take the time to research well.
Environmental Concerns
Buying tropical hardwood decking needs to be done responsibly. Look for sellers which source their wood from sustainable frosts thereby preventing the destruction of forest habitat. Decking boards which are sources via unsustainable logging are responsible for the loss of important tree species. The species which are mentioned in this article do not appear in the red list of threatened species which is maintained by The IUCN Red List of Threatened Species and are all available from sustainable frosts.
A guide by Michelle Strassburg co-founder of Wood and Beyond, sellers of hardwood decking and wood flooring wood flooring since 2005. Wood and Beyond source their woods from sustainable frosts and are active against unsustainable logging.
Author: . Posted on July 30, 2010
