Accoya braune Holz-Poolumrandung

Wood Decking: A Comprehensive Guide for Selecting the Best Wood for Decks

A guide to choosing the right wood type for decking for you

04.24.2025

A deck isn’t just an outdoor extension – it’s a statement. Whether you’re envisioning a cozy backyard retreat or a sprawling entertainment space, choosing the best wood for decks is crucial. With so many deck wood types available, from traditional hardwoods to innovative modified wood decking, the right choice can impact durability, maintenance, aesthetics and even costs. There is a lot to consider. All deck wood types have their pros and cons. Some are more durable, stable, resistant to moisture and sustainable than others. What about modified wood decking? What is Ipe decking? Which wins when it’s composite vs wood deck? How much does a wood deck cost? This guide is designed to give you all the facts about all the different options you need to make the right decision for you.

Deck Wood Types

There are many different deck wood types and some that are not actually wood at all. So, let’s look at some of the most popular ones and see how they line up next to each other. Remember though, when shopping for the best wood for decks, don’t just focus on the aesthetics – durability matters just as much.  A high-quality decking material should last many years and withstand what you and mother nature throw at it. In fact, you’ll discover that in the long run, it really pays not to skimp on quality.

Composite vs Wood Deck

Not all decks are wood, in fact composite vs wood deck is the best place to start when deciding which is the best wood for decks.

Composite decking, made from a blend of wood fibers and plastic or sometimes pure PVC (100% plastic), is heavier and often in the same price range as premium hardwoods but it can have a longer lifespan. Because it is a composite material, it is highly resistant to rotting, insects and mold and needs no sealing, just the odd clean. Yes, it is available in a wide variety of colors but it does not look as natural as real timber decking. In terms of sustainability, whilst most composite decks are made from 95%+ recycled materials, composite decking is not biodegradable and will not break down.

Wood decking, whether it be hardwood or softwood, is undoubtedly more naturally beautiful than composite decking and is perfect for achieving a traditional look. Up-front, its cost is lower than composite decking and it can also be painted or stained in whatever color you like. To the touch, wood is cooler than composite decking which can get very hot in high temperatures. Wood decks, can decay split, warp or swell over time, but higher quality hardwood decking, if maintained well, can last anything up to 50 years. Natural wood decks can be sustainably sourced and are also more eco-friendly than composite as they are fully biodegradable.

accoya braune poolumrandung

Shown: Accoya Decking at the Poolside, Switzerland. Wooden terrace and privacy screen: Formare GmbH. Swimming pool construction: Vivell Schwimmbadtechnik AG. Landscape architect: Guido Syfrig. Outdoor design: Staub Marcel Gartenbau GmbH. Wood supplier: Holzpur AG

Hardwood vs Softwood

There are two key types of wood – hardwood and softwood – and as the name suggests, one is stronger and more durable than the other. So, which is the best wood for decks when it comes to hardwood vs softwood?

Hardwoods, including IPE, Cumaru, Tigerwood, Teak, Mahogany and Garapa wood, are not only beautiful, they are also highly durable and capable of lasting from 40 to 75 years.

Because they have a high natural oil content, they are capable of resisting mold, pests and decay more than softwoods.

As they are harder, they don’t scratch or dent as easily as a softwood deck. In fact, some hardwoods like Ipe are even fire-resistant.

The downsides of hardwoods are that they are expensive, heavy, hard to work with due to their density are more costly to install and can fade over time if not properly treated with UV oil. Stocks of some sustainably harvested FSC-certified hardwoods are limited, too.

Softwood decking is often made from Pressure-Treated Pine, Cedar, Douglas Fir, Redwood or Spruce. Lightweight, affordable and much easier than hardwood to work with, softwoods can be easily stained or painted and can be sustainably sourced, especially cedar and redwood, from fast-growing renewable forests.

It’s not all good news, though, as softwoods have a much shorter lifespan of between 10 and 25 years and only with consistent, proper maintenance. Softwood decks dent, scratch, warp and are more susceptible to damage by moisture, termites and fungi.

They are also high-maintenance compared to hardwoods, requiring sealing or staining at least every 1-2 years to avoid decay.

Modified Wood Decking

Wood is undoubtedly the most popular choice, but to overcome some of the negatives, softwoods can be modified to make them significantly more stable and durable. Modified wood decking is made from wood which has been specially treated in a way that alters its composition and enhances its stability.

An example of modified wood decking is Accoya high-performance wood. Made from a particular type of pine softwood, it undergoes a process called acetylation which effectively pickles softwood and enhances its durability and dimensional stability. The result is an extremely durable and longlasting wood that outperforms most traditional hardwoods.

Thanks to the increased dimensional stability, Accoya will barely shrink, warp or swell meaning it is suitable for virtually all climates.

The acetylation process also adds other qualities. Unlike many softwoods, Accoya requires minimal maintenance when left in its natural form, as it does not need regular staining or sealing – though, like any decking material, it benefits from routine cleaning to maintain its appearance.

Accoya® modified wood decking is also an environmentally friendly choice, holding a prestigious Cradle to Cradle Gold certification for its sustainability and non-toxic production process. It contains no harmful chemicals and is also made from FSC-certified fast-growing softwood.

The advantages far outweigh the disadvantages. The upfront cost of modified wood decking is higher than softwood and can even exceed the price of many hardwoods, though it is often comparable to premium options like Ipe, but then again, it is more durable and will last longer.

Left untreated, like most wood decking, modified wood decking will weather naturally but to an attractive silver-gray color.

Shown: The National Autistic Garden at RHS Chelsea Flower Show 2024. Architect: Dido Milne (CSK Architects). Landscape designer: Sophie Parmenter. Distributor: James Latham.

IPE Decking

If you want one of the hardest woods in the world, you could opt for Ipe decking. This Brazilian walnut timber, pronounced “ee-pay”, this dense and durable wood is naturally resistant to everything from scratches and dents to rot, insect damage and fire. Its resilience makes it suitable for extreme climates and can handle anything from hot and humid tropical climes to freezing cold conditions – plus its naturally textured surface means it is slip resistant when wet.

Ipe decking has an excellent lifespan, can last for between 40 and 75 years. While it doesn’t require sealing, applying oil annually helps maintain its deep, rich brown color and prevents it from aging to a silver-gray patina.

However, there are considerations to keep in mind. Ipe’s exceptional density makes it heavier and more challenging to work with requiring specialized tools, often leading to higher installation costs. It’s also one of the more expensive decking options available in terms of material costs and labor costs.

Additionally, Ipe is a slow-growing hardwood and overharvesting has led to scarcity, making sustainable sourcing crucial. If you choose Ipe decking, ensure it carries official FSC certification to verify responsible harvesting practices.

Bamboo Decking

Bamboo decking has gained popularity as an alternative to traditional hardwoods. However, bamboo is not technically a wood – it is a fast-growing grass. Since it regenerates quickly, bamboo is often marketed as a more sustainable option than slow-growing tropical hardwoods like Ipe.

Engineered bamboo decking is typically made by compressing bamboo fibers with adhesives under high heat and pressure, creating a dense, durable product. High-quality bamboo decking can be strong, resistant to insects and decay, and have a sleek, modern aesthetic.

Bamboo decking relies heavily on adhesives and chemical treatments to achieve its durability. While high-end bamboo decking manufacturers use safe adhesives, the presence of resins and binding agents may raise concerns about emissions and long-term performance.

Moreover, working with such a dense material can make cutting and fastening more difficult, requiring specialized tools and pre-drilling.

Bamboo’s extreme density presents several challenges. Its weight can make transportation and installation more difficult and expensive, requiring a stronger substructure to support the added load. The density also means that bamboo decking retains heat, making it uncomfortably hot underfoot in direct sunlight, much like some composite materials.

Additionally, while bamboo is durable, lower-quality versions can be prone to swelling, cracking, or delamination over time, especially in humid environments.

Aesthetics

Even with advances in finishes and technology, there is no doubt that natural wood is far more attractive than composite decking. The unique, characterful grain, knots and hues of natural timber are almost impossible to replicate. While some high-end composite boards attempt to mimic wood’s texture, they often fall short on authenticity, looking too uniform or artificial. Similar to engineered bamboo decking which have a uniform, modern aesthetic, but lack natural variation and organic beauty of real wood.

Among natural wood options, hardwoods like Ipe are prized for their rich, deep colors and fine grain, while modified wood like Accoya offers exceptional stability and a refined, versatile appearance. Accoya starts as a sustainably sourced softwood but undergoes an advanced modification process that enhances its durability and aesthetics, making it ideal for staining, painting, or leaving unfinished to develop a contemporary silver-gray patina.

For those who prefer the aged look from day one, Accoya Color Grey offers a beautiful, throughout-colored grey decking option that maintains its shade over time without the need for staining.

However, all wood decking will naturally change in appearance over time if left untreated. Exposure to sunlight and weather causes most wood to fade to a silvery-gray tone, which some homeowners love for its rustic, weathered look. Others prefer to maintain the original color through regular oiling or staining.

If aesthetics are a priority, natural wood remains the gold standard for a high-end, organic look. While composite decking offers color consistency and minimal maintenance, it often lacks the natural variation, depth, and texture that make real wood so visually appealing.

Shown: Private Villa in Hergiswil, Switzerland with view of Lake Lucerne. Photography: Marco Leu. Material: Accoya Color Grey Wood.

Accoya Color Grey Terrase

Durability

Comparing composite vs wood decking, composite decking is the most durable. It requires little to no maintenance and will look the same for years. Worry-free, it can be safely jet-washed, too.

However, while composite decking is marketed as a long-term solution, it can still experience issues such as fading, surface scratching, and warping in extreme temperatures. That said, the gap between composite decking, Ipe and modified woods is closer than you think in terms of durability and longevity.

High-quality natural wood decking, particularly modified woods like Accoya, offers exceptional long-term performance with the added benefit of a natural, authentic appearance.

Accoya stands out as one of the most durable wood decking options available, thanks to its unmatched dimensional stability and resistance to swelling, shrinking, and warping.

Unlike traditional softwoods, which are prone to movement when exposed to moisture, Accoya remains stable in all weather conditions, even in humid or coastal environments. It is naturally resistant to rot and insect damage, eliminating the need for harsh chemical treatments. Accoya decking is backed by a 25-year warranty, even when installed in challenging conditions, making it a reliable long-term choice.

Similarly, Ipe decking is renowned for its density and durability. However, its extreme hardness can make installation difficult, requiring specialized tools and pre-drilling, and it still requires regular oiling to maintain its color and prevent checking (surface cracks). Other hardwoods, while durable, are not as dimensionally stable as Accoya, meaning they may be more susceptible to movement and maintenance challenges over time.

Ultimately, if durability is your top priority, Accoya offers a unique combination of longevity, stability, and low maintenance that outperforms many traditional wood options.

With basic cleaning, Accoya can maintain its beauty and structure for decades—offering the warmth and character of natural wood without the typical drawbacks of swelling, warping, or decay.

Sustainability

When evaluating the sustainability of decking materials, it’s essential to consider factors such as:

  • resource renewability
  • environmental impact, and
  • product lifespan.

The best wood for decks, in terms of sustainability is modified wood. Why? This is because it is made from fast-growing, sustainably sourced softwoods that are renewable. Accoya has also earned the prestigious Cradle to Cradle Certified® Gold status reflecting its commitment to environmental responsibility.

This certification assesses products across categories like material health, reutilization, renewable energy use, water stewardship, and social fairness. Notably, Accoya attained a Platinum rating in material health, indicating the absence of harmful substances.

However, it’s not all bad news regarding composite decking. Despite being energy-intensive to produce and not being biodegradable, composite decking often contains up to 95% recycled plastics and wood fibers. They also only need minimal maintenance eliminating the need for chemicals, sealers, preservatives or stains.

Bamboo decking is often marketed as a sustainable choice due to its rapid growth and renewability. Unlike hardwood trees, which take decades to mature, bamboo can be harvested every 4-5 years without harming its root system.

However, the production process for engineered bamboo decking is energy-intensive, relying on adhesives and chemical treatments to enhance durability. While high-quality bamboo decking can be carbon neutral over its lifecycle, the use of resins and heavy processing raises concerns about emissions and long-term environmental impact.

Last place, tropical hardwoods do have a high carbon footprint and can be responsible for deforestation due to over-harvesting – so if in doubt, ensure you select FSC-certified hardwood decking.

Shown: Split-level home in Vancouver. Design: Matt McLeod and Lisa Bovell of McLeod Bovell Modern Houses. Accoya Handrail: Custom designed by Upper Canada Forest Products.

How much does a wood deck cost?

The cost is often the clincher when deciding on wood or composite decking. Basically, the answer to how much does a wood deck cost is that it tends to increase with how durable they are.

For example, softwoods, like pressure treated pine, are the least durable and consequently the most budget-friendly option. However, as they are the least durable, more frequent maintenance is required as well as possibly replacement over time.

Composite decks, which are hardly affected by the elements and extremes in weather and require almost zero maintenance are amongst the most expensive. While the initial investment is higher, some homeowners find the long-term convenience appealing.

Modified wood decking, like Accoya, sits in the higher end of the price spectrum, but unlike composite, it’s real wood with a natural, timeless appeal.  It offers exceptional durability and dimensional stability, while maintaining the authentic beauty that only real timber provides. And when it comes to long-term value, Accoya stands out thanks to its outstanding 25-year warranty (even in challenging conditions). Combined with lower maintenance and replacement needs over time, it can offer significant cost savings in the long run.

The best wood for decks is…

So, in summary, composite wood aside, if you want the natural beauty of wood and you want it to last, the best wood for decks, when all factors are considered, is modified wood, closely followed by hardwood, then softwood.

If you need any more information about Accoya high-performance decking, please contact us.

Where to Buy

You can buy Accoya and Accoya products from our selection of distributors or manufacturers in your region. Use our map search tool to find your nearest Accoya supplier.

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10 Pool Deck Ideas

Dive into our wood pool decking ideas and soak up inspiration for your next project.

03.19.2025

Owning an outdoor pool must be high up on everyone’s bucket list. You’re incredibly lucky if you have one already, but if you’re planning on either adding one to your backyard or overhauling your existing pool, here’s a pool of exciting wood pool deck ideas for you to dip in and out of at your leisure. From innovative above-ground pool decks to stunning inground designs, these ideas showcase a blend of beauty and inspiration, perfect for transforming your poolside into a personal oasis.

Advantages of wood pool decking

Before you jump in, imagine the benefits of owning a pool surrounded by the timeless beauty and warmth of a natural wood deck. Perfect for entertaining friends, relaxing with family or simply unwinding after a stressful day, a pool with authentic wood decking creates an attractive space that you really want to spend time in. Unlike bleak concrete patio and pool surrounds, wood decking looks elegant, copes well with weather extremes and has a wonderful natural look.

Accoya is the perfect choice of wood for a pool deck. It’s not only the high-performance, low-maintenance choice, it’s a sustainably sourced product and comes with a free 25 year guarantee. It gets less hot in the sun than other materials, is crack and splinter resistant, even over decades, and is barefoot-friendly.

1. Cool contrast

Accoya Color Grey Poolumrandung Deutschland

What we love about this impressive inground pool deck is the choice of gray colored wood decking which contrasts beautifully with the stone edging of the pool. By decking the whole terrace in sustainable Accoya Color Grey it creates an elegant connection to a dining and seating area at the rear of the property.

2. All the right curves

Naturpool mit Accoya gekrümmter Umrandung

Don’t just think in straight lines when designing a pool. Because wood is so easy to cut and shape, you can create a more natural look by using curves to frame your pool. In this particular example by M. Hechenblaickner, the edge of the pool is cut in a sweeping curve which contrasts the linear stone walls and, over time, the wood deck has developed a handsome silver-gray patina. The addition of large rounded stones along the edge in the pool also softens the look.

3. Oasis of calm

accoya braune poolumrandung

Why not transform your garden into a stunning and inviting oasis like this one? This is one of those clever pool decking ideas by Formare GmbH that creates a contrast between the pristine wooden decking and curvaceous feature fencing, the contemporary stainless-steel pool, cool blue water and verdant green lawn, trees and shrubs. Cool, calming and somewhere private to relax in style.

4. Fully immersive

Got a compact backyard? Good design like this can include a pool where you never thought possible. Here, Natura Piscines not only specified wood for the decking of the entertaining area, they actually extended it into the pool itself. Blending in seamlessly with the rest of the deck, this was only possible by using durable and rot-proof.

5. Natural balance

Why not enlist the help of Mother Nature to bring a natural balance to your pool project. Here, this environmentally conscious hybrid pool is half pool and half pond. This not only looks incredibly natural, it uses gravel and plants to filter and treat the water entirely without any chemical additives. The designers here strengthened the sustainability of the pool by using Accoya Color Grey wood decking for the surround which harmonizes perfectly with the peacefulness of this natural swimming area, supplied by Enno Roggemann.

6. Distressed to chill

Accoya decking, grey decking, decking Italy

If you are looking for a relaxed, elegant looking pool area, consider a wood deck with a distressed finish like this design supplied by Kobel. The planks of this wood deck were expertly wire brushed before they were installed. This not only gives it a wonderful texture with increased anti-slip properties, it also creates a more natural lived-in modern aesthetic. The perfect environment to chill and take a refreshing dip.

7. Water therapy

Poolumrandung aus Accoya-Holz mit einem schönen Wassereinlauf

Water has a therapeutic effect on people and this pool not only looks great, it’s good for your mind, too. Recreating the feel of an outdoor spa, the above ground wood deck surround uses highly water-resistant treated wood. One length of the pool side is raised to accommodate twin embedded contemporary waterfall features. These add an extra relaxing visual and acoustic dimension to the pool. The project was carried out by M. Hechenblaickner.

8. Nude and natural

Accoya Holz Terrasse - natürliches, dauerhafte Terrassenmaterial

The brief for this pool was keep it sleek and natural and the designers have certainly achieved this. This wide expanse of light-colored uncoated wood decking gives the illusion of space and the semi-circular pool entrance adds a classical touch to the pool design. In time, the wood will weather and mellow to a soft gray to tone with the outdoor furniture and tinted gray glazing. Installed by The Natural Pool Company.

9. Uber cool and comfortable

The terrace of this magnificent French villa has a highly attractive wood swimming pool deck and pool surround. Accoya wood was chosen by Woodstone Project because of its durability, stability and rot resistance. It’s what also keeps the surround’s cool and makes it naturally barefoot-friendly. Notice how the direction of the decking syncs with the length of the pool and also the cushion seams of the sun loungers.

10. Go Greek

The last of our pool deck ideas take inspiration from the idyllic Greek Islands which are bathed in glorious sunshine the majority of the year. Brilliant white buildings, turquoise seas and sun-bleached wood – this wood deck surround, pool, white paint and traditional Greek-style gazebo work to dazzling effect. With regular cooling dips and splashing, the qualities and sustainability credentials of Accoya high performance wood pool decking made it the obvious choice and were supplied by Atlas Wood.

Want more inspiration and information?

Visit our Pool Decking page for more ideas, options and in-depth information about how Accoya can enhance any pool project.

Where to Buy

You can buy Accoya and Accoya products from our selection of distributors or manufacturers in your region. Use our map search tool to find your nearest Accoya supplier.

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Accoya Wins People’s Choice Award For The Most Innovative Deck Product

In a dazzling display of cutting-edge design and sustainable innovation, Accoya Color Grey has clinched the coveted Innovative Product Showcase People’s Choice Award, powered by PSP/Deck Expo. This prestigious accolade underscores the revolutionary impact of Accoya Color Grey within the industry, signaling a paradigm shift towards environmentally conscious and aesthetically pleasing solutions.

12.12.2023

Accoya Color Grey Triumphs

Accoya Color Grey Triumphs

Accoya Color Grey, a product of meticulous research and development, has redefined the possibilities of outdoor decking materials. Its success in securing the People’s Choice Award at the Innovative Product Showcase, hosted by PSP/Deck Expo, is a testament to its widespread acceptance and approval within the professional community and among the public.

This accolade is not just a recognition of Accoya Color Grey’s striking appearance but also of its commitment to sustainability. The product embodies a marriage of form and function, offering an exquisite grey finish that resonates with contemporary design trends while being sourced from sustainable, fast-growing wood. Accoya Color Grey stands as a shining example of how innovation can be seamlessly integrated with eco-conscious practices to create a product that transcends industry norms.

The Innovative Product Showcase at PSP/Deck Expo serves as a prominent platform for industry leaders and enthusiasts to discover groundbreaking products. Accoya Color Grey’s victory in the People’s Choice category reinforces its appeal and popularity among those who prioritize not only performance and aesthetics but also environmental responsibility.

This triumph positions Accoya Color Grey as a trailblazer in the decking materials landscape, setting new benchmarks for excellence and sustainability. As the industry continues to evolve, this accolade solidifies Accoya Color Grey’s role as a frontrunner, inspiring others to follow suit in the pursuit of innovation that not only meets but exceeds the expectations of both professionals and consumers alike.

Award: Most Innovative Deck or Patio Products

Hosted by: International Pool, Spa, Patio Expo and Deck Expo

How Long Do Wood Decks Last?

According to Washington D.C. based consulting firm Webb Analytics, roughly one-quarter of US homes have at least one deck on their property, with wood products making up nearly 77% of all the decking materials used today. That’s a lot of lumber! It also demonstrates just how this most beautiful and natural of materials has captured our imagination (and our wallets and purses).

05.04.2022

A question that comes up on a regular basis is how long do wood decks lasts and linked to this question is the cost of maintenance and what part sustainability plays.

So, this blog is dedicated to how long you can expect your wood deck to last and also how Accoya® Color can give you great value for money and peace of mind. In addition to Accoya we will look at the two main types of wood that are used for decking, that is, softwoods and hardwoods.

Why don’t wood decks last forever?

Why don’t wood decks last forever?

In one word, ‘biology’. We’re talking about natural wood decking here in this blog, not plastic composite materials. As wood is an organic product, it will be subject to the same laws of nature as everything else that’s natural. All wood rots and decays in time – this process can be put off through treatment but it’s true to say that the softer the wood, the faster it will decay and break down. The lumber that is used for installations becomes food for insects such as termites and also for fungi. The mold that we see on old wood is the by-product of fungi feeding off our property! This mold can in time weaken the structure and some types of allergenic mold can be unhealthy with allergic reactions and asthma being triggered in some cases.

Another issue that has to be factored in is ‘weathering’ – all timber silvers down in time as the sun’s UV rays take an effect and although this is often a cosmetic issue it needs to be considered in overall maintenance.

Durability is the key here – that is, how tough the wood is and how much it resists the attention paid to it by insects such as termites and by fungi.

What is the maintenance needed?

What is the maintenance needed?

It all depends on the type of wood being installed and how rigorously the maintenance schedule is followed (even the best-intentioned homeowner can fall behind in maintenance). The average lifespan of a wood deck is between 10 to 15 years, but this will vary with regards to the type of wood used. Softwoods such as cedar and redwoods won’t last as long and should be pressure treated first. Hardwoods such as Ipe and mahogany are more expensive because they grow slower than softwoods and they are denser – their durability is naturally increased (but many hardwoods such as Ipe are now considered unsustainable from over use).

Typical maintenance activities include regular inspection of the surface and substructure, looking for joist issues or excess moisture. Regular sweeping of the surface and cleaning with a deck cleaning solution to kill mold and bacteria is recommended. Sanding is also sometimes needed.

Is there a natural wood product that takes away this pain for me?

Is there a natural wood product that takes away this pain for me?

Yes, it’s called Accoya® Color and this natural timber is supplied with a warranty against rot and decay! If you love a real wood deck, then Accoya is for you. It’s made from highly sustainable FSC®-sourced timber that starts out life as a fast-growing softwood and is then modified using a unique patented process called acetylation that turns the wood into Accoya. This is the ultimate in environmentally friendly timber as the material is 100% organic wood and all of it can be recycled at the end of its very long life.

Accoya Color is supplied in a beautiful grey color that comes from a non-toxic color pigment that has been examined by The Danish Technological Institute that confirms no toxic elements are used. The coloring goes all the way through the wood and there is no need for a surface coating which is a real bonus for homeowners who are time-poor.

Accoya Color is supplied with a warranty against rot and decay, even in-ground installations. This means that the timber is ideal for humid locations such as swimming pool surrounds. Accoya timber has been used for years without any rot and so is ideal for decking too.

It’s also ready to use ‘straight out of the box’ which means no expensive pre-installation treatments against termites or mold and very little need for annual maintenance programs (apart from the usual sweeping up of leaf litter, etc). As it’s a low maintenance deck material, it means that homeowners have peace of mind as to lower costs after installation and a reassuring lack of chemical treatments needed to keep it looking pristine.

Low maintenance, highly sustainable and long-lasting…Accoya Color definitely takes the pain away.

Where to Buy

You can buy Accoya and Accoya products from our selection of distributors or manufacturers in your region. Use our map search tool to find your nearest Accoya supplier.

Find a supplier

What is the Most Sustainable Decking Material?

We’re exploring the critical issue of what is the most sustainable decking material on the market. This topic is now front and center for everyone when they choose their building materials and we’ll talk about the most sustainable decking timber choice of all, the natural Accoya® Color wood.

05.04.2022

Everyone loves the look and feel of a real wooden deck on their property.

Let’s face it, when talking real estate, nothing beats a beautiful outdoor deck in your yard. A professionally installed and properly maintained wooden deck can add real emotional and financial value to your property. The same is true of the wooden decks that are found in corporate settings, where ‘biophilic designs’ bring nature into our working lives, improving our wellbeing and (it’s claimed) our productivity.

Learn more about biophilic designs.

Once upon a time…

Decks throughout the US come in many forms, backyard, front porch, docks leading down to the river and so on. Redwood, Cedar and Ipe have been the traditional woods used in deck construction for hundreds of years. But, the first two require periodic treatment to seal and protect against moisture and of course the use of Ipe is now frowned upon due to potential illegal logging practices.  Until recently, there was little thought given as to what we now call the ‘provenance’ or source of the timber and also the long-term sustainability of this precious decking material.

The devastation of deforestation

Without getting too pessimistic, it’s worth noting that the clearing of tropical rainforests is still happening at an alarming rate, despite the best endeavors of governments around the world. The Food and Agriculture Organization of the UN estimates that the world has lost a billion acres of forest since 1990, mostly in Africa and South America. The Amazon Conservation group reports that destruction rose by 21 percent in 2020.  Much of this unregulated illegal activity may find its way into the back yards of innocent consumers.

Read more here on deforestation.

So, what is the most sustainable timber for decking?

So, what is the most sustainable timber for decking?

Thankfully, we live in different and more enlightened times and these days virtually all construction materials come under the eco-spotlight from regulators, architects, installers and of course domestic dwellers who pay the bills.  Talking of consumers, it’s people like you who are taking the lead in interrogating the eco-credentials of building materials (especially when thinking of selling your property in the future).  Sustainable decking material is the way to go.

We’re discounting wood-plastic composite decking materials here because, as their name implies, they contain plastic elements and so our focus is on real wood. Many of the hardwoods that have been used in decking for so long take decades to grow slowly in tropical climes (sometimes eighty or ninety years) and it’s very difficult for them to be replaced; when they are cut down there is a huge corresponding loss in biodiversity in the forest around them. Most, if not all softwoods are not suitable on their own as they’re not durable enough, they require treatment to prevent premature rot and decay.

Ideally, consumers and timber installers in the US need a beautiful, natural timber that grows very fast and quickly in managed sustainable plantations. This needs to be an eco-friendly timber with impeccable credentials that is both legal and ethical. Oh, and it helps if it comes with a 25-year warranty against rot and decay, even in water, and is grey-colored all the way through to the core!

Accoya Color to the rescue

Accoya Color to the rescue

Accoya Color is ideal for timber decking projects in the US. Unlike slow-grown hardwoods it is sourced from sustainably sourced softwood that is FSC® certified with 100% proof of provenance. This natural softwood is then modified using our famous patented acetylation process that results in Accoya wood – in this decking product it is also now colored a beautiful grey through to the core…Accoya® Color. To achieve this, after acetylation, the newly modified timber goes through an extra dyeing process in a purpose-built facility using organic non-toxic color pigment.

Important elements for wooden decking are the durability of the material and the degree of maintenance required after installation, most of which involve chemical treatments of some kind or other. Accoya Color is just like its traditional Accoya stablemate in that it’s very low maintenance. There is no need for additional coatings (although it coats very well) and its grey color anticipates the natural silvering of wood when exposed to weathering over the years.

As Accoya Color comes with a warranty against rot and decay, even when installed in ground (a unique feature), it results in an eco-friendly timber that lasts for decades and consequently locks away carbon too. These wooden decks are 100% recyclable too after their decking life, further increasing their sustainable street-cred.

Accoya Color is available to buy in the US from a range of our official lumberyard partners that can be found on the link below.

Where to Buy

You can buy Accoya and Accoya products from our selection of distributors or manufacturers in your region. Use our map search tool to find your nearest Accoya supplier.

Find a supplier
Decking-Grey

What is the best timber to use for decking?

A real wooden deck, expertly laid by professionals, is one of life’s joys to see and touch, especially in bare feet on a hot summer day. Who doesn’t love the thought of family and friends enjoying an impromptu gathering around an outdoor table, who knows, perhaps creating memories for life? So, what is the best timber to use for decking and why? In this blog we’ll look at various options and introduce you to our new high grade timber for decking with a beautiful built-in grey that we call Accoya® Color.

03.21.2022

How to choose decking?

How to choose decking?

When laying down or replacing a deck there are many options for the professional builder or homeowner to consider such as the deck board material to use, color, coatings, weathering, plus of course safety concerns such as possible slips and splinters. This is a big endeavor and likely to cost money and effort, so it pays to do your homework.

Sometimes there are too many choices in life, and this is especially true when you are looking to create or replace your deck. What material to choose, what color stain, if any, and perhaps considering other types of coatings too. So let’s narrow down the choices straight away by taking out the composite ‘wood’ decks that usually feature a mix of wood and plastic materials. These may last a long time, but nothing beats a natural real wood deck. So, in relation to wood decking, one of the major choice factors is durability, how long your chosen wood will last out in the open before rotting or decaying.

So, what is the best timber to use for decking and why?

So, what is the best timber to use for decking and why?

There are three types of wood suitable for decking:

  • hardwoods,
  • treated softwoods
  • modified wood (e.g. Accoya)

The Timber Decking & Cladding Association recommends that only timber that will last a minimum of 15 years be used for your deck (15 years would be a good return on your investment). Hardwoods that are classed as ‘very durable’ are popular. There are also some softwoods that can be used but they have to be pressure treated to reach that high grade. The last category includes Accoya of course – an award-winning product that starts out life as a sustainable softwood and is then modified to last for decades.

Another choice factor is maintenance. All real wood will weather in time if left outside and there can be issues such as splits and cupping as well, especially in harsher hot climates. It makes good financial sense to choose a low maintenance timber if possible (you don’t want to have to replace individual boards that fail).

Additionally, the sustainability of your chosen wood has now become one of the major factors, with good reason. Tropical hardwoods, although beautiful to see and touch, are increasingly being discounted for legal and ethical reasons. Which leads us to a beautiful, highly durable and very sustainable alternative…

Introducing Accoya Color

Accoya boards have been used for wood decking for years to great acclaim – let’s face it, thousands of architects, builders and landscape designers around the world can’t all be wrong! The boards combine the beauty of real wood with scientifically-proven durability that will last for years. Due to its incredible ability to withstand rot and decay, even in water, Accoya has become the standout choice for decking timber projects.

There is now a new addition to the Accoya family, Accoya Color, which has all the advantages of our traditional modified timber but with a beautiful and consistent grey color all the way through to the core. Accoya Color has gone through a patented color impregnation and fixation process at the dedicated Accsys Accoya Color plant.

Keeping it real

Keeping it real

Accoya Color is a natural wood with ultra-high performance and boasts excellent dimensional stability (it’s classified as a small movement timber and that’s ideal for deck projects).  It is barefoot-friendly, which means that you and your family can safely walk on the boards without the fear of splinters. It is not only easy to install, but requires very little maintenance throughout its lifespan.

Its beautiful grey color goes all the way through the wood;  a great feature is that the deck boards are straighter and easier to fix than alternative wood deck boards which means less waste during the build stage. There is also no cupping which can be a problem in other types of wood…when that happens individual boards have to be taken up and replaced, usually at great cost, but this isn’t an issue with Accoya Color.

Although Accoya Color is durable, it is also lighter in weight than alternative woods such as Ipe and even composite materials.

Keeping it green (or grey actually!)

Unlike deck boards that come from illegally cut hardwoods, Accoya Color is made from sustainably-sourced forestry and the wood is guaranteed, for extra peace of mind. The long product life also means that the naturally-occurring carbon within the wood is retained within the product for the duration of its lifecycle. An organic and non-toxic grey color pigment is used for the coloring process so Accoya Color wood is also 100% recyclable at the end of its life.

Where to buy

Accoya Color is available to buy in the US from a range of our official distribution partners that can be found here.

Project Collection now live on accoya.com

10.25.2021

Inspirational projects

The Accoya Project Collection provides an extensive look at some of the most inspirational uses of Accoya from around the Globe. From the stunning architectural design of Barangaroo House in Sydney, Australia, to the glorious Banff Observation Deck in Canada.

You’ll find a range of projects showcasing the use of Accoya in Siding, Decking and Windows & Doors.

Other articles of interest

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