Types of decking and fixing materials for quality deck designs

A beautiful home is not complete without a means to enjoy Australia’s ideal, temperate climate. When it comes to creating an outdoor living space, Busselton Decking can provide quality deck design standards perfect for any home.

An outdoor deck is a smart and stylish way to create a smooth transition from indoors to outdoors to give a home some extra space. Decks creates a highly versatile area that can be used for seating, lounging, outdoor furniture, raised garden beds, and even storage. Decks can also complement any outdoor space, from a small courtyard to a large commercial pool, to create an attractive outdoor lifestyle that will make any place stand out.

Decking materials

There are many types of decking material that homeowners can choose from to fit the motif of their home. The two most popular options are timber decks and composite decks. Both types of decking material have pros and cons that should be considered by any homeowner to decide which option is most suitable for them

For homeowners looking for an elegant, long-lasting deck that will withstand the test of time, a good quality, hardwood timber deck might just be right for them. There is a wide range of hardwood timber species that they can choose from. The most popular include jarrah, blackbutt, ironbark, burnt ash, and more. In choosing among these timber species, homeowners have several factors to consider.

Timber deck

First, each timber species has a unique appearance and texture that will affect how the final deck looks like. Second, different timber species have different durability that is affected by the location of the deck. If the deck is exposed to a lot of sunlight or rain then homeowners should consider a more durable species as opposed to decks under shade. In BAL (Bushfire Attack Level) rated areas, homeowners should also select a BAL rated timber suitable for them.

Third, although timber decks, in general, requires more maintenance compared to composite decks, certain species require more attention than others. For instance, jarrah and Fijian mahogany turn into an elegant grey if left over time. Finally, the different appearance, durability, and supply of the timber species make the price range variable so homeowners should also consider their budget for a timber deck.

Composite deck

Similarly, there are various composite decking materials available in the market. Composite decks, also known as wood-alternatives or synthetic decking, is made from a combination of plastic and wood fibres bound together by binding agents. The result is weather-resistant and stain-resistant decking boards and decking tiles that will not splinter or rot, perfect for homeowners looking for a highly durable but low maintenance option.

Composite decking materials were manufactured to mimic the appearance of real timber so there is a lot of variety and colours to choose from that can match quality deck design standards. However, composite decks are more expensive and are often easily distinguished from real timber. Certain composite decking materials may also have added benefits for specific purposes such as anti-slip for decks around pools or fade-resistance for decks exposed to harsh environment.

Decking boards

Homeowners should also consider that decks can be made with either decking boards or decking tiles. Decking boards give the classic deck design but it requires adequate ventilation space to prevent cupping and distortion.

Decking tiles

Decking tiles are increasingly gaining popularity especially for decking installation close to the ground. Decking tiles are more stable when exposed to poor ventilation and are easier to remove if necessary.

Decking fixings

Apart from the types of decking material, knowing which decking fixings to use is one of the most important decisions in every decking project. Using the wrong screws, bolts, or concealed deck clips could compromise the decking installation so all decking fixings that will be used should be suitable for outdoor use

Corrosion resistance

Corrosion resistance and size are two considerations for all decking fixings that will be used during decking installation. A minimum corrosion resistance of Class 3 is expected from all decking screws to ensure the quality of the deck. However, for decks close to a coast or swimming pool, stainless steel is the material of choice. The length and width of the decking boards should be considered in choosing the appropriate screw size.

Decking screws

Decking screws are preferred over nails since screws are more secure and more easily manipulated for maintenance or repair compared to nails.

Hidden fixings

Hidden fixings are another popular way of fixing decks. The finished look is neat with perfectly spaced decking boards that are free of screw and nail holes. Apart from its clean finish, there is also no risk of harm from protruding nails or screws. Hidden fixings also make decking installation quick and easy.

The types of decking and fixing materials are only some of the decisions that homeowners make in planning for an outdoor deck that will provide their vision of a luxurious outdoor lifestyle. Busselton Decking can help homeowners decide on their preferred decking profiles that will help bring their vision to life.