I'd love a hardwood deck, but is it ethical?
Hardwood deck boards can be considered ethical if sourced from sustainably managed forests, indicated by a Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) certification, as this ensures the wood is harvested responsibly without contributing to deforestation; however, depending on the species and where it's sourced, there can still be ethical concerns regarding the environmental impact of harvesting certain hardwoods, especially if they are slow-growing trees.
Awesome! Where can i get hardwood deck boards?
As a premium deck builder, when we're building a deck out of hardwood, we only use one source here in Calgary; Kayu Canada is your one stop shop for ethically sourced, high quality exotic hardwoods. They have the best hardwood for decks.
What are the benefits of using hardwood?
Key benefits of using hardwood for exteriors:
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High durability:
Hardwoods are denser and stronger than softwoods, meaning they can withstand wear and tear from exposure to the elements better, leading to a longer lifespan outdoors.
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Weather resistance:
Certain hardwood species like teak and balau have natural oils that provide resistance to moisture, rain, and UV rays, minimizing warping, rotting, and cracking.
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Insect resistance:
Many hardwoods are naturally resistant to insects like termites, further enhancing their longevity outdoors.
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Aesthetic appeal:
Hardwood often has a beautiful grain pattern and rich color that can enhance the appearance of an outdoor space.
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Potential for low maintenance:
When properly treated and maintained, some hardwood species require minimal upkeep compared to other materials.
Using hardwood for exteriors provides several benefits, including exceptional durability, resistance to weather elements like moisture and temperature fluctuations, a longer lifespan compared to softwoods, natural aesthetic appeal, and the potential for minimal maintenance when choosing the right hardwood species for outdoor applications; making it a good choice for decks, siding, fencing, and outdoor furniture.
As a premium deck builder, we recommend Osmo Exterior Finishes as the premier choice for staining hardwoods. Known for its exceptional quality and durability, Osmo provides a beautiful, long-lasting finish that enhances the natural beauty of the wood.
Whether you're looking to protect your outdoor furniture, fence, pergola or deck, Osmo offers a range of colors and finishes to suit your needs. Trust Osmo for superior results that stand the test of time.
Simply apply 2 coats to start, then a single coat annually. Just wash prior. No need to sand!
How do I look after my hardwood deck?
New decks should get at least one coat of Osmo Decking Oil on the underside, then 2 coats on the surface. To maintain a hardwood deck, annually clean your deck with deck cleaner using a soft-bristled brush, inspect for damage, and apply a thin coat of Osmo Decking Oil. It will only require a quick wash before reapplying with this product. No need to sand. It really is that good!. Ensure you use a low pressure setting on a pressure washer when cleaning to avoid damaging the wood surface; always replace any damaged boards as needed.
Key steps for hardwood deck maintenance:
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Regular cleaning:
Clean your deck at least once a year with a dedicated deck cleaner and a brush to remove dirt, debris, and mildew.
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Pressure washing:
If using a pressure washer, use a low pressure setting to avoid damaging the wood.
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Inspection:
Regularly check your deck for signs of rot, warping, loose boards, or other damage.
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Sealing or staining:
Apply a water-repellent sealant or semi-transparent stain to protect the wood from weather damage and UV rays.
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Damaged board replacement:
Replace any damaged or rotten deck boards promptly.
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Minimize water exposure:
Ensure proper drainage and direct water away from the deck with gutters and downspouts.
Now what about the disadvantages?
While exotic hardwoods can be a good choice for decks due to their durability and longevity, their environmental impact depends heavily on sourcing practices; when sourced responsibly from sustainably managed forests, they can be considered relatively environmentally friendly, but the transportation of these woods over long distances can still contribute to a significant carbon footprint, and there's always a risk of supporting unsustainable logging practices if not properly certified.
Negative aspects:
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Deforestation risk: If not sourced responsibly, the demand for exotic hardwoods can contribute to deforestation in tropical rainforests.
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Transportation impact: Shipping exotic hardwoods from distant locations can generate significant carbon emissions.
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Illegal logging concerns: There is a risk of supporting illegal logging activities when buying exotic hardwood without proper certification.
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Costly: Compared to other materials like softwoods and composite/PVC, hardwood is generally more expensive as it requires more work to get a good finished look.