Short Boards vs Long Boards: The Real Cost of Cheap Decking

When it comes to selecting the right decking materials for your project, understanding the difference between short boards and long boards is crucial. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore why opting for cheap short boards can lead to greater waste, increased labor, more visible joints, and ultimately a worse-looking result. We’ll dive into a cost comparison that reveals the full financial impact of these decisions, ensuring you make an informed choice.

Quick Summary

• Cheap short boards can generate more waste and labor.
• Visible joints detract from the overall aesthetic of your deck.
• Long boards minimize seams and enhance durability.
• A cost analysis shows the long-term savings of investing in quality decking.
• Consider installation complexities when choosing board lengths.

What It Is / Definitions

Short boards are typically under 10 feet in length, while long boards exceed that threshold. These lengths affect how they are installed, their visual appeal, and their performance over time. Choosing the right length can significantly influence both the appearance and integrity of decking projects.

Best Use Cases

• Short Boards: Often used in tight spaces or for repairs, but best avoided for new builds.
• Long Boards: Ideal for expansive decks or visually cohesive designs that aim to reduce joints and seams.

Clear Pros of Long Boards

1. Fewer Joints: Long boards drastically reduce the number of visible joints, providing a cleaner look.
2. Strength and Stability: Longer spans can be structurally more sound when properly supported, reducing the risk of warping and cracking.
3. Reduced Waste: Buying longer boards minimizes cut-offs and waste material, leading to more efficient use of resources.
4. Easier Installation: Fewer pieces can streamline the installation process, saving time and labor costs.

Clear Cons and Limitations of Short Boards

1. Increased Waste: Short boards often result in more cut-offs, leading to additional waste disposal costs.
2. Visible Joints: A deck comprised of many short boards can look disjointed, impacting the overall aesthetic.
3. More Labor-Intensive: Short boards require more labor to install as they often necessitate more fasteners and adjustments.
4. Compromised Structural Integrity: Frequent joints can lead to weakness in the structure over time if not installed with proper alignment and support.

Installation Considerations

When installing decking, consider the following:

• Joist Spacing: Long boards typically require proper joist spacing to ensure stability. Follow manufacturer guidelines for best results.
• Expansion: Keep in mind thermal expansion; longer boards may require expansion gaps to prevent buckling in high-temperature environments.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

1. Ignoring Length Needs: Always measure your area carefully to determine how many long boards will reduce cuts.
2. Poor Joist Placement: Misalignment can lead to structural issues. Use a level to ensure accurate placement.
3. Overlooking Quality: Invest in high-quality decking to avoid the maintenance costs that arise with cheaper materials.

Cost Considerations

To provide a clearer understanding, here’s a breakdown in costs related to material length:

1. Material Costs: Assuming a rate of $3 per linear foot for short boards and $5 for long boards:
   • For a 400 sq ft deck, using short boards (20 ft average) may require 40 boards, totaling $1200.
   • Long boards (12 ft average) may need only 20 boards, totaling $1000.
2. Labor Costs: Assuming an increase of 25% labor for short boards due to complexity, a $300 labor cost becomes $375.
3. Totaling Costs: Short boards may cost $1200 (material) + $375 (labor) = $1575 vs. long boards at $1000 + $300 = $1300, showing a clear difference.

Maintenance and Longevity

High-quality long boards, like Ipe and Cumaru, naturally resist decay and insect damage, typically lasting 25+ years depending on conditions. Short boards, especially when made of lower-quality wood, may require more frequent replacement.

Real-World Recommendations

When selecting decking materials, we strongly recommend considering the long-term benefits of long boards. Not only do they save you time and money in installation, but they also enhance the aesthetic value of your project and minimize maintenance down the line.

Shop Grooved (Hidden Fastener) Decking or Compare Square Edge Decking Options to see our premium selections.

FAQ

1. Why should I choose long boards over short boards?
   Long boards reduce visible joints, waste, and installation labor, giving your deck a cleaner and more cohesive look.

2. What types of projects benefit from short boards?
   Short boards can be useful for repairs or in tight areas where space is limited, but generally not for new expansive decks.

3. How do I calculate how much decking I need?
   Calculate total square footage and divide by the board width multiplied by board length. Consider waste – this is higher with short boards.

4. What maintenance is required for hardwood decking?
   Regular cleaning and periodic sealing will extend the life of your decking regardless of board length, but be wary of using cheap boards as they may require more frequent attention.