29 Oct A Guide to the Different Types of Decking Timber
Choosing the right timber for your deck is important, given the weather conditions and beautiful landscapes in Cape Town and its surroundings.
With a variety of timber species to choose from, each with its distinct look, feel, and durability, selecting the perfect decking material can be overwhelming.
To help you make an informed decision, here’s an overview of some of the best timber types for decking and their unique characteristics.
1. Garapa: The Golden Choice
Garapa, also known as Brazilian Ash, is a popular choice. It has warm golden tones and impressive durability. This hardwood is highly resistant to decay, insects, and wear, making it perfect for high-traffic outdoor spaces. Garapa’s light colour adds a natural look to your deck, blending well with Cape Town’s lush surroundings.
Benefits:
- High durability and density
- Natural resistance to insects and decay
- Cost-effective compared to other exotic hardwoods
2. Composite Lumber
Composite lumber is a modern alternative to traditional timber, crafted from a blend of recycled materials. Its moisture resistance, rotting, and termites make it a top choice for low-maintenance decking. Available in various colours and textures, composite decking complements both modern and traditional homes.
Benefits:
- Minimal maintenance
- Resistant to fading and staining
- Environmentally friendly
3. Manilkara Bidentata
Manilkara Bidentata, a dense hardwood from Central and South America, is famous for its deep reddish-brown hues and unmatched strength. Its durability works well for high-use areas or decks exposed to harsh weather. This timber can develop a beautiful patina over time, adding character to your outdoor space.
Benefits:
- Very high density and durability
- Rich, deep colour with a natural sheen
- Excellent resistance to rotting and insects
4. Kwila Decking
Kwila, also known as Merbau, is a popular choice for those looking for a reddish-brown finish that deepens with age. This hardwood is durable and naturally resistant to pests, making it a good choice for outdoor use. It has a stunning colour and low maintenance requirements.
Benefits:
- A deep, rich colour that ages gracefully
- Low maintenance and easy-to-seal
- Resistance to rotting and pests
5. Ipe
Ipe, often referred to as “Brazilian Walnut,” is renowned for its incredible hardness and natural resistance to insects, rot, and fire, making it one of the most durable choices for decking. This exotic hardwood has a beautiful, dark brown tone that can be preserved with regular sealing or left to weather into a distinguished silver-grey. Although Ipe is one of the pricier options, its longevity and low maintenance needs make it a worthwhile investment for high-traffic areas.
Benefits:
- Exceptional durability and density
- Natural resistance to fire, rot, and insects
- Long-lasting with minimal upkeep
6. Pine
Pine is a popular choice for decking, especially among budget-conscious homeowners. Known for its light yellow to pale brown colour, pine can be treated to enhance durability and resistance to insects and rot, making it suitable for outdoor use. Treated pine is versatile, easy to work with, and can be stained or painted to suit various design preferences, offering flexibility in achieving a specific aesthetic.
Benefits:
- Cost-effective and widely available
- Easily customisable with stains and finishes
- Resistant to insects and rotting when treated
7. Jarrah
Jarrah is a hardwood native to Australia and is known for its classic red colour, which matures to a silver-grey if left untreated. With a tight grain and resistance to insect attacks, Jarrah offers both beauty and functionality, ideal for decks that need to withstand outdoor elements.
Benefits:
- Unique reddish tones
- High resistance to decay and insects
- Long lifespan in outdoor conditions
8. Red Balau
Red Balau is a hard, dense hardwood with a beautiful reddish-brown colour and an interlocking grain pattern that brings warmth to outdoor spaces. It thrives in warm, dry climates, making it particularly suited for areas like the Highveld.
While Red Balau may require additional maintenance in coastal regions, regular sealing can ensure its longevity in any environment. This timber is highly rated for its resistance to rotting and insect damage, ensuring a durable decking option for years to come.
Benefits:
- A warm, rich colour that enhances outdoor aesthetics
- Strong resistance to rot and insects
- Ideal for warm, dry climates
Classic Timber Decking Styles
Traditional Hardwood Decking
Hardwood species like Merbau, teak, or cedar bring timeless elegance, creating a warm and inviting outdoor space. Their rich colours and natural grains add sophistication, suitable for both modern and classic homes.
Exotic Timber Decking
For a bold statement, exotic timbers like Ipe or Garapa are perfect for their unique colours and intricate grain patterns. Exotic timbers are durable and make a unique addition to any outdoor space.
Choosing the Right Timber Decking for Your Needs
To choose the best timber decking for your project, consider:
- Your Home’s Style: Select a timber that complements your home’s architecture. Traditional homes may pair well with hardwood, while contemporary spaces can shine with composite decking.
- Functionality: Think about how you plan to use the deck. If you expect heavy foot traffic, a dense, durable timber like Garapa, Kwilah or Jarrah might be best.
- Maintenance: Some timber types require regular sealing, while others, like composite decking, offer lower upkeep.
Selecting the right decking material will bring your outdoor vision to life, combining beauty, durability, and sustainability.
At Garapa.co.za, we offer a variety of premium timber decking options, all sourced for quality and longevity. Plus, we deliver from Saldanha on the West Coast to East London on the East Coast, ensuring convenience and efficiency for your project.
Contact us today to find the perfect timber for your dream deck