Hardwood vs Softwood Decking: Which One is Right for You?

Category: Hardwood News

About 23.8% of the 850,000 homes built in 2017 featured a deck. If you’re a homeowner without one, upgrading your backyard with a brand-new deck can transform your outdoor experience. But the question arises: hardwood vs. softwood? Let's explore this topic to find the best choice for your decking needs.

Understanding Hardwood and Softwood

The terms "hardwood" and "softwood" refer to biological classifications rather than the actual hardness of the wood. This means one type isn't inherently superior solely based on its classification.

What Is Hardwood?

Hardwoods come from broadleaved trees found in temperate or tropical climates. These trees are often slow-growing, producing denser and more durable lumber suitable for high-quality decking. Examples of hardwoods suitable for decking include teak, cumaru, ipe (Brazilian Walnut), and iroko. Notably, ipe stands out for its rich color, density, and durability, making it a top choice for outdoor spaces.

What Is Softwood?

Softwoods are derived from coniferous trees and grow quickly in various regions, including Russia and Scandinavia. While more affordable, softwood decking often requires treatment for decay resistance and insect damage. Common softwoods used in decking include spruce and pine.

Usage and Popularity

Softwood is commonly preferred in decking projects due to its affordability and availability, making up approximately 80% of the world’s timber. Although hardwoods may represent a higher investment, they offer longevity and require skilled craftsmanship, appealing to those wanting a durable decking solution.

Which Wood is Better?

Neither hardwood nor softwood is strictly better; they each present unique aesthetics and performance attributes. The choice ultimately depends on your specific requirements for style, durability, and maintenance.

Maintenance Tips for Your Deck

Regardless of your wood choice, regular maintenance will prolong your deck's life.

Cleaning Softwood Decks

Seal or stain softwood decks annually to maintain their water resistance and prevent decay. Regular sweeping and occasional washing are also recommended.

Cleaning Hardwood Decks

Hardwood decks like ipe usually don’t need sealing. Their natural density protects against water absorption. Simply wash with warm, soapy water to maintain their appearance.

Making Your Decision

Understanding the pros and cons of each type of wood will help you choose the best fit for your needs.

Benefits of Choosing Softwood

Softwood decking can be great for budget-conscious homeowners looking for an aesthetically pleasing solution that requires relatively low maintenance in the short term. However, it may need more upkeep and isn’t as resilient against harsh weather.

Benefits of Choosing Hardwood

While hardwood decking requires a higher initial investment, it offers beautiful, long-lasting value. Hardwoods like ipe can last up to a century, providing incredible durability against moisture, pests, and fire with minimal maintenance required.

Ready to Build Your Deck?

If you’re ready to start building your deck, we offer quality ipe decking that promises durability and beauty. Understanding the benefits of both hardwood and softwood, we believe hardwood is the best choice for a long-lasting deck. Ipe remains cool even in summer and withstands outdoor elements better than synthetic options.

We source our ipe responsibly from Central and South America. To kickstart your project, check out our cost comparison sheet!