6 Critical considerations of hardwood decking timber prices you need know before
25th Jul 2024
6 critical considerations of hardwood decking timber prices you need know before
Wow doesn't a wide board decking board look great. More and more architects, builders and homeowners are opting for wideboard decking boards over their narrow 90mm cousins.
So it is ok to do a straight swap from a 90mm to 140mm hardwood timber decking board? Before you race out and order your decking timber:
There's six critical attributes you need to be mindful of about hardwood decking timbers,
especially when you compare 90mm hardwood decking to 140mm wide board hardwood decking for your deck construction.
1) 140mm hardwood decking timber is 60% wide than a 90mm board..
So, initially it appears as though the extra width offers some great installation advantages. Firstly, there are a lot less boards to man-handle, then sort and grade, then cut and lay. Secondly there's a lot less screws to mark out, pre-dill, countersink then screw in. However you need to consider how your going to fasten these wide decking boards to your timber joists. As this can introduce some serious additional installation costs you may not have considered.
2) As hardwood decking boards widths increase, so does the risk of cupping and splintering.
It is recommended by most hardwood decking suppliers that nails are not to be used to fasten wideboard decking boards to the joists. If you do use nails, most suppliers strongly recommend you use 3 nails per board. Some suppliers even recommend you screw and glue these wide decking boards at every joist.
3) Which thickness hardwood decking board do I choose?
The thickness of a decking board can make massive impact to the total cost of your decking materials. Cheap decking timber prices start off from 19mm Boards, then range from 25mm, 32mm, 40mm in thickness. In short the thicker the board, the stronger and longer the fastener you will need. So the cost can end up being be exponential more than a standard 90mm decking board.
4) So now you need to compare screws vs nails for your hardwood decking wide boards.
Nails require 4 steps:
- marking out,
- pre drilling
- hammering in
- punching off.
There is a full range of nails to choose from, but stainless steel nails aren't cheap.
Screws require 4 steps:
- marking out
- pre drilling
- countersinking
- screwing in (you can plug them if you want)
So depending on what thickness you decking timber is, your nail or screw length will change. It is not uncommon for wideboard hardwood decking timbers to shear screw heads.
4) BRANZ has stated that wider decking boards...
have more movement than traditional 90 mm wide decking, therefore larger gaps between the boards will be required to accommodate the swelling that will occur when the boards get wet. They state that around 6 mm gap is required to ensure sufficient airflow between the decking boards
5) Generally the hardwood decking timbers
in wide board profiles are machined smooth making them seriously dangerous when a little bit grimy in winter.
6) Be sure to oil your deck thoroughly and regularly to maintains its integrity.
At least twice annual is recommended. We do not recommend staining your deck as it is very very difficult to keep the colour consistent especially in areas with different foot traffic.
If you want to avoid having to make all the above decisions and hassle, be sure to visit www.wordpress-775651-4741811.cloudwaysapps.com for wideboard hardwood timber decking board alternatives, decking kits and hidden deck fasteners.
Hardwood Timber Decking Boards Or Composite Decking Boards?
Building a deck takes a lot of planning before the first board is laid down. Putting in the effort during the design stage is the best way to make effective use of your resources and save yourself from running into trouble during the project.
Choosing the location of your deck, taking measurements, and knowing your budget will get your project off to the best start. Once you know the rough numbers, you can start to think about the material of your decking boards. Some materials are much more expensive than others, for example, hardwood timber decking boards in New Zealand will cost more than using a composite decking material.
However, opting for the cheapest materials on the market will cost you more in maintenance in the long run. Finding the right balance now will save you from future expenses.
Choosing the Subframe Material for Your Decking Board
The best subframe will depend on your location and different types have different installation requirements. Some might be easily DIY-ed, whereas others will require more precision. The costs vary considerably as do the durability and strength of these systems. If the deck will be used daily, or have regular footfall, invest in a subframe built to last.
Consider The Style You Want when Choosing your Decking
It might be possible for you to install your own subframe, depending on the size and material you choose to use. If your project is more complex and uses curved decking to fit around existing features - or if you will need stairs/ramps for accessibility, you may wish to consider hiring a professional for installation. Knowing this in advance will allow you to budget accordingly.
If you do hire a contractor for the job, ensure they're trustworthy by asking for pictures of their prior work or even speaking with previous clients.
Check with Your Local Authority Before Finalising your Decking Boards
Make sure your planned deck is within legal guidelines. Due to different environmental factors, it might be that some materials need to be up to code before they're allowed to be used. Finding out your subframe or decking boards in New Zealand aren't up to standard at a later date could reduce your property value or lead to a removal notice.
Stay True To The Design if you Select Hardwood Timber
Once the budget is finalised, the contractor (if necessary) is booked and the materials have been ordered - any changes to the plan are going to cause significant time delays and add extra costs. Deciding at this stage that you'd prefer hardwood timber decking boards instead of turf, or wood plastic decking, or that it could be bigger, will cause stress.
Make sure you're 100% happy with your design and materials before beginning for maximum efficiency.
Why Build a Deck?
People build decks because they want to spend time there. Whether it's utilising a rooftop, bringing personality to a balcony or any other space that could use some decking boards. New Zealand benefits from some of the best year-round weather for spending time outdoors, so give some thought to your lighting, seating, plants and other items of decor that make the deck area truly special.
To help you get your deck design started, you can use Outdure's free tool that allows you to visualise your design and get an estimate based on the material and layout you choose. It's the perfect chance for you to work out the details of your deck design before making any commitments.
If you would like free advice on your project design, let us know and Outdure can arrange a free consultation with an expert.