Being knowledgeable of the different types of outdoor decking in Singapore is important when remodeling or renovating your house. It helps you have an overview of how much the project will cost and what are the factors you need to consider. Moreover, not every type of outdoor decking works for every home. This is why it is a great advantage if you understand the pros and cons of each.
So, before you decide how to remodel or renovate your home, know the options you have – the types of outdoor decking products – to help you make the best decision.
1. Outdoor Wood Decking
Natural wood has been considered one of the best options for outdoor decking Singapore because of its authenticity, cooling characteristics, durability, longevity, warmth, and natural properties. It is also weather-resistant; thus, it gives you a sense of reassurance that it can withstand whatever nature brings. And when it comes to the materials, the most popular are cedar and redwood.
The wood you choose should have excellent resistance to moisture and decay, and cedar perfectly fits such description. Its average lifespan is approximately 15 to 20 years. Its natural longevity, however, can be drastically shortened if not properly maintained or taken care of. This goes the same for redwood.
Like cedar, redwood is also naturally resistant to cracking, warping, and other weather damage. Hence, you can expect it to last longer. Still, it’s necessary to have it regularly maintained including annual cleaning, painting, sanding, sealing, refinishing, and staining to preserve its natural look and features.
2. Composite Wood Decking
Gaining popularity and attention nowadays is composite wood decking. It is an alternative to all-wood decking and man-made decking material, which is composed mainly of recycled plastic and wood fiber.
While this type of wood decking Singapore does not possess the characteristics of natural wood, the strongest feature that makes it a popular choice among homeowners is its less maintenance requirement. It does not require sanding, sealing, staining, or painting. All that is required is cleaning that can be done semi-annually.
When it comes to maintenance and durability, composite decks are known to be durable and can last up to 50 years even with low maintenance. But once you notice that your composite deck starts to fade, which may be caused by exposure to direct sunlight, all you need to do is to stain or paint it to make it look brand new again.
3. Pressure-Treated Woods
Another type of wood decking Singapore that you should know is pressure-treated wood. It is an ideal choice if you have a tight budget and you’re looking for the most affordable option. The drawback to pressure-treated woods is that they are less durable and warps or bends easily. They also display an unnatural color and contain chemical preservatives.
Choosing Between Outdoor Decking Products
The argument of whether you should choose wood over a composite deck or vice-versa all comes down to your preference. If you simply love the natural look and warmth of real wood, then natural wood is for you. But if you want a deck that requires low maintenance and can last longer, then perhaps a composite deck is perfect for you. And if the budget is the main concern, you can always go with pressure-treated woods.
