Below are some Tips and tricks for working with timber decking;-
Select species that meet your minimum desired service life based on the durability classification see Species Database
End seal- to minimise splitting and to give extra protection
Clear decking area of any vegetation risk of fire
Maintain the decking below 20% moisture content to avoid fungal attack
Avoid moisture traps
Avoid contact with metals – corrosive metals
Always keep an eye on the species as there is a risk of tannins and extractives leaching onto other surfaces
Use rock salt for ice/frost prevalent decks
Some species especially durable hardwoods will leach tannins or extractives, and these can stain surrounding materials and paintwork especially when the decking boards are not finished, (i.e. oiled, or stained) or the timber has been installed not properly dry.
Extractive stains can be very challenging to remove. It is advisable to protect these surfaces from the runoff during the initial weathering process. This process is temporary and should stop once the boards have begun to weather down to a silvery-grey colour.
Oils, coatings with UV inhibitors and not just clear finishes be should used.
Oils or coatings with additional slip resistance have a regular maintenance cycle to ensure the integrity of the coating
Deck boards, if left unrestrained, i.e. not fixed and stored external, tend to distort e.g. cup, some of this can be forced into place by fixing especially in softwoods.
More information on timber decking below:-
Timber Decking Fixing : Installation Guide, Instructions
How long will my timber decking last?
What timber quality is my timber decking?
Common Species and Profiles,Patterns for Timber decking
Timber Decking supports / joists
Tips – Does the decking meet or require planning control and building regulations ?
Anti Slip, Slip resistance for timber decking (anti-slip decking)
Fixing and sealing timber decking
