Lumber Decking Supply

Types Of Deck Lumber Materials

Not all types of treated lumber decking materials are the same. While they all share similar properties that have made them the standard decking materials for many years, each type has unique characteristics.

Untreated Lumber For Decks

Untreated lumber is a solid choice for decks that are designed for a natural look. Because the lumber is in a more natural form, it provides the authentic appearance that can really transform your space and complement the existing looks of your home. The downside to choosing untreated lumber for your decking is that it is more susceptible to rot and insect damage. This makes untreated lumber not ideal for use underground or near the surface, or in damper environments. Untreated lumber is designed more for the actual decking boards, while pressure-treated is preferred for other parts of the deck, like ground posts, support beams, railing, stairs, and more.

When choosing your untreated lumber for your next decking project, you should consider each type carefully. Some are more expensive, but offer more durability and longevity. Examples include:

• Cedar Lumber For Decks: Using cedar lumber for a new deck gives your project a warm, natural look that has natural resistance to insects and rotting. It is lightweight and easy to work with. This wood works better in drier climates.
• Redwood Lumber For Decks: Redwood for decking boards is a more expensive material, but it provides a stunning look like no other type of lumber. It is quite durable and resistant to decay, but requires a bit more maintenance than other types.
• Tropical Hardwood For Decks: Tropical hardwood is the most durable decking material. It is extremely dense, and lasts for a long time (sometimes up to 50+ years). It costs much more than other treated and untreated lumber, and can be difficult to work with due to its weight and density, but its superb density and longevity can make it a worthwhile investment. It also creates a beautiful and luxurious design for any project that uses it.

Pressure Treated Wood For Decks

Pressure-treated lumber is the most common type of decking material. Pressure-treated lumber is a softwood like pine or fir that has preservatives like copper azole or alkaline copper quaternary infused into the wood. These give the wood protection against damage from insects, mold, and the weather. Although pressure-treated lumber isn’t the most stunning and can sometimes result in a greenish tint on your deck, it is affordable, easy to work with, and can easily be stained and customized to your ideal design.

Pressure-treated lumber is differentiated by the type of treatment it undergoes. Each different type of pressure treatment below refers to how long the wood was treated for, and by which compounds:

• ACQ: Alkaline Copper Quaternary
• CA-B and CA-C: Copper Azole
• Cu N-W: Waterborne Copper Naphthenate

The level of treatment is the main determining factor behind how long your lumber will last. There are options that can fit just about any budget, style, maintenance commitment, and longevity requirement, but it's important to understand what your priorities are in your decking project, and how each pressure-treated lumber type will balance them.

Ground Contact Pressure-Treated Wood

This type of pressure-treated lumber is ideal for posts and framing components that come in contact with the ground. They are given more advanced treatment to withstand the constant exposure to moisture and insects. While this type of treated wood is more expensive, it will last longer than less-treated wood.

Above-Ground Pressure-Treated Wood

Above-ground pressure-treated lumber is a lighter and cheaper type of lumber, great for deck boards and other components situated above the ground. In areas that stay dry and well-ventilated, they can hold up for many years.

Kiln-Dried After Treatment (KDAT)

KDAT lumber is specifically created to be lighter and more stable, allowing it to be stained and sealed easier and quickly. It is also a great choice because it shrinks and warps the least out of the different types of pressure-treated wood decking.

Modified Wood

Modified wood is an expensive option, but it comes with a ton of perks. Modified wood is made by changing the cellular structure of the wood to make it denser and sturdier, all with no harmful chemicals, It is pest and moisture-resistant, has a beautiful natural look, and requires little to no maintenance.

Advantages Of Treated Wood Decking vs Composite Decking

Treated wood decking is the go-to choice for most homeowners and contractors for a reason. Treated decking materials are cheaper and easier to get than composite decking materials. And of course, they have the look and feel of real wood that composite decking boards can only try to replicate. Even if exposed to direct sunlight, treated wood won’t burn your bare feet on a hot summer day.

Financing For Treated Lumber Decking Materials

MRD Lumber offers low-interest financing options for families looking for a beautiful deck that will last for many years. We can find terms that can fit your budget, and ensure that your family will have the space you want to make many new memories.

Consultation For Treated Lumber Decking

If you aren’t sure what kind of treated wood decking material is right for your project, our team can help. MRD’s experts can review our different options with you at our Bethel, PA and Lehigh Valley showrooms, and can plan out what you need to make a deck that fits the style of your house, and any other needs you may have.

Reach Out To MRD Lumber For Your Treated Wood Decking Materials Today

MRD Lumber is here to help you get the new deck of your dreams with the materials that fit your needs and budget. Reach out to our team today to get lumber decking materials and more that you need for whatever home improvement project comes your way. Schedule a free lumber decking supply consultation today!