Making changes to your home can be scary – most big changes are, especially in the place you feel the safest. Luckily, some changes can be small, and the best thing for your home; adding a deck to your backyard is a great small change that will have a huge impact! The question remains, which wood type is best for your new deck in your climate?
Why Choosing The Best Wood For Your Deck Is Important
Some woods are better suited for different climates or areas, depending on the insects and how often you’ll be using your deck. If you want to avoid spending more money in the future making repairs or starting over, it’s essential to decide on a wood type that will work best for YOU. In Southwest Virginia, we experience a humid continental and oceanic climate, so it’s important to consider what they will do to your wood over time!
Composite
Made of wood and plastic, composite wood is safe for kids, pets, and everyone in between as it does not splinter; it’s also very low maintenance and resistant to insects and rotting. This deck type will typically last a lot longer than other options, easing your mind about the need for excess repairs and safety for the little ones!
Unfortunately, this wood type is on the expensive side of decking due to its makeup, does not look as authentic as its 100% wooden counterparts, and the color cannot be easily changed (making it a more ‘get what you get’ type of patterning). Meaning if you want it a different color to match a certain aesthetic, you’ll have to have it painted instead of a traditional stain.
Southern Yellow Pine
Southern Pine is considered a softwood lumber, making it easily workable and sustainable compared to other hardwood counterparts. It is strong, stiff, and dense, and holds onto hardware such as nails very well; this great quality makes it perfect for residential and commercial use! Additionally, if you’re looking for our most cost-effective wood type for your Southwest Virginia deck, SYP is the best choice for your wallet.
Southern Yellow Pine isn’t as water-resistant as other woods (i.e., Composite, Teak, etc.), but it handles pressure treatment really well, making it a great outdoor addition to your home. You can always seal it and stain it, aiding in its resistance to excess moisture, which just adds an extra step once installation is done!
Teak
Teak is a beautiful wood that makes for a unique deck appearance, and has little chance of splintering or cracking; it is also naturally rot and mold-resistant, which is great for the occasional inclement weather we get in Virginia! Its light coloring and unique patterns make it a sight for sore eyes, often a favorite amongst customers looking for something ‘new.’
However, it is essential to note that this wood type is harder for manufacturers to procure due to its slow growth, meaning it has to be specially ordered and extends the amount of time the project takes. Additionally, because it is a by-order, specialty wood, it will be more costly than the other two counterparts!
Making The Choice That’s Best For YOU
Choosing the best wood type for your Southwest Virginia home can seem overwhelming, and you may not know where to start – that’s where professionals come into play! Work Smart Home Solutions knows Roanoke in and out, can review your location and what you want from your deck, and help you decide which wood is best in this humid, subtropical state. Don’t let this wonderful change overwhelm or scare you; we can work together to create a beautiful masterpiece in your yard!
