How You Can Create the Perfect Outdoor Space with Hardwood Decking
Hardwood decking is a timeless, durable, and stylish foundation that transforms patios, terraces, and garden pathways into inviting, functional spaces. Having it installed is a fantastic opportunity to shape your ideal outdoor lifestyle. In this guide, we’ll explore how to maximise the potential of your hardwood timber decking, from smart design ideas to essential maintenance tips that keep it looking its best for years to come.
Choosing the Right Hardwood Decking
Selecting the perfect hardwood decking for your outdoor space requires careful consideration of both aesthetics and practicality. With a variety of hardwood decking boards available, it’s important to think about how your decking will complement your home, stand up to the elements, and fit within your lifestyle.
Durability and Longevity
One of the biggest advantages of hardwood timber decking is its exceptional lifespan. Unlike softwood or composite options, hardwoods are naturally dense, making them highly resistant to warping, rot, and insect damage.
- European oak is well-renowned for its strength and durability, making it a popular and inexpensive choice for decking.
- Ash is also known for its hardness and shock resistance, meaning it’s excellent for the kind of foot traffic your decking will see.
Appearance and Colour
Each hardwood species offers a unique look. Many homeowners prefer an exotic hardwood for their aesthetics:
- Ipe has a deep, rich brown tone with a smooth grain.
- Cumaru features warm golden hues.
- Yellow Balau has bright, sunny undertones.
- Angelim has a more traditional, rustic appearance.
Size and Layout
The right hardwood decking sizes will influence the overall design and feel of your space. Wider boards create a more expansive and contemporary look, while narrower boards offer a classic, traditional appeal. Think about the scale of your garden, terrace, or patio. Longer boards can create a spacious feel, while shorter boards may work better in compact areas.
Maintenance and Finish
While hardwood decking is naturally robust, applying a hardwood decking oil can enhance its colour and prolong its life. Some hardwoods require more frequent oiling than others, so factor in how much maintenance you’re willing to commit to. If you prefer a low-maintenance approach, selecting a species with high natural oil content, such as Ipe, can reduce upkeep.
Designing Your Ideal Outdoor Feature
Thoughtfully designing your decking area will ensure it not only looks stunning but also serves a practical purpose, allowing you to enjoy your garden year-round.
Al Fresco Dining and Entertaining
You might position a stylish garden furniture dining set in a central spot, add soft lighting with lanterns or string lights, and consider a built-in BBQ or outdoor kitchen for effortless entertaining. Opting for wider hardwood decking boards can create a more expansive, luxurious feel, perfect for hosting summer gatherings.
A Space to Relax
For a peaceful escape, incorporate comfortable outdoor seating, a pergola for shade, and Corten steel planters filled with lush greenery. Adding a firepit can create a warm, inviting atmosphere for cosy evenings, while subtle deck lighting enhances the ambience after dark. Consider comfortable furnishings, cushions, and throws for chillier mornings and evenings spent in your new tranquil spot.
Multi-Level Designs for Impact
A multi-tiered deck can define different areas of your outdoor space while adding depth and dimension. Raised sections work well for seating areas, while lower levels seamlessly transition into lawns or garden paths. Hardwood decking sizes can be customised to create sleek, modern lines or a more natural, rustic layout.
Integrating Nature
To ensure your decking blends harmoniously with its surroundings, pair it with natural elements like raised beds, timber planters and garden structures, and lush planting schemes. Exotic hardwood decking with warm, rich tones complements both modern and traditional gardens, creating a seamless connection between home and landscape.
What You Should Avoid
Installing hardwood decking is a rewarding investment, but avoiding common pitfalls is key to ensuring a flawless, long-lasting finish. Here are some crucial mistakes to watch out for:
Choosing the Wrong Decking Sizes
Selecting inappropriate hardwood decking sizes can affect both aesthetics and functionality. Wider boards can make small spaces feel more open, while narrower boards suit traditional designs. Always consider the proportions of your outdoor area before purchasing.
Improper Board Spacing
Failing to leave adequate gaps between hardwood decking boards can lead to warping and moisture retention. Hardwood naturally expands and contracts with temperature changes, so allow at least a 5–7mm gap between boards to ensure proper airflow and drainage.
Inadequate Subframe Support
A strong foundation is essential for long-term durability. Use treated timber or metal joists and ensure proper spacing between support beams to prevent sagging or movement over time.
Poor Ventilation and Drainage
To prevent moisture buildup, allow sufficient airflow beneath the deck by keeping a minimum 150mm clearance between the ground and the decking structure. This helps reduce the risk of rot and prolongs the lifespan of your decking.
Keeping Your Hardwood Decking in Top Condition
To keep your deck looking its best, regular maintenance is essential. One of the most effective ways to preserve its natural colour and protect it from the elements is through oiling.
Why Oiling Matters
Over time, exposure to the sun, rain, and changing seasons can cause hardwood timber decking to dry out and fade to a silver-grey patina. While some homeowners love this weathered look, applying a hardwood decking oil helps to nourish the wood, restore its rich tones, and protect it from moisture, UV rays, and general wear and tear.
Choosing the Right Oil
For the best results, opt for a high-quality hardwood decking oil specifically designed for dense woods. Products containing natural oils, such as tung oil or linseed oil, penetrate deep into the wood, enhancing durability while maintaining breathability. We’d recommend brands like Treatex, which offers Bangkirai decking oil, as this is also suitable for exotic wood types.
Seasonal Care and Protection
- Spring and Summer: Clean the deck with a gentle wood cleaner and remove any dirt or debris before oiling.
- Autumn and Winter: Keep the deck free from fallen leaves and excess moisture. Consider applying a protective sealant before colder months to prevent water absorption and frost damage.
How to Oil Your Hardwood Decking
- Clean the surface: Sweep away dirt and wash with a mild detergent or specialist wood cleaner.
- Allow it to dry: Ensure the decking is completely dry before applying any oil.
- Apply a thin coat of oil: Use a brush, roller, or cloth to apply the oil evenly, following the grain of the wood.
- Let it absorb: Allow the oil to penetrate for 10–15 minutes, then wipe away any excess to prevent stickiness.
- Repeat if necessary: A second coat can be applied for deeper protection, but always follow product instructions.
Install Hardwood Decking for Improved Outdoor Living
A beautifully designed hardwood decking area can turn your garden into the perfect spot for entertaining, relaxing, and enjoying the beauty of nature. By choosing high-quality hardwood decking boards and following a simple maintenance routine, you can enjoy your new garden feature for decades.
