Like many other companies, when composite and synthetic decking materials were introduced we were excited to start working with this new, supposedly maintenance free decking. Eventually we became warranty providers for Trex, which opened our eyes to the breadth of issues these materials experience. In our experience these materials only last 5-10 years before they start to degrade, warp, or afflicted with non-repairable damage. This is too short of a time for a deck that cost about the same as a car. We want your outdoor living experience to be the best it can for as long as you own your home, which is something that only wood can offer.

You’re probably wondering what kind of wood is right for your deck and lifestyle. We’re “on deck” to set the record straight.

For generations Redwood has been the gold standard in wood deck construction. Its deep red color makes it appealing to look at, while its natural resistance to insects and fungus make it a great choice for any deck. Not having to worry about pests and fungus will allow you to enjoy the deck to its fullest extent for years without the worry that comes with lesser quality woods. Redwood has even stood up to termites! Not only that, but Redwood has a Class B fire rating, which means you and your family will have more time to get to safety should the worst happen.

Like Redwood, Cedar is naturally rot and insect resistant, but it’s also one of the lightest woods you can use to build your deck. Don’t let this lightness fool you, it’s just as durable as Redwood and can last just as long, if not longer. Many Native American Cedar artifacts have been found and are still in good condition today! If you like your wood to have a more traditional color Cedar perfect, with a rich golden-brown color. Cedar has a Class B fire rating, as well, making it a safe choice for your home.

Perhaps one of the most beautiful woods, it’s renowned for the woven look to its grain. This tropical wood has come into vogue lately because of the beauty and color of the wood. It’s a mix of the deep red of the Redwood, and the rich browns of the Cedar. Mahogany is also rot and insect resistant and is one of the best woods to use in our ever-changing climate, because of the minimal shrinking and expanding it will exhibit during the changes in humidity and moisture accumulation. Unlike Cedar or Redwood, Mahogany boasts a Class A fire rating, the same that is given to steel and concrete.

Ipe, also known as Brazilian walnut, is perhaps the toughest and long-lasting deck material available in the U.S. This hardwood has been shown to last 40 years or more in the elements and is often used as material for boardwalks in coastal cities. This wood also boasts rot and insect resistance, perhaps even more so than the other woods on the list due to its ability to weather the elements. Ipe’s color is a rich amber brown, like good beer. Like Mahogany, Ipe has a Class A fire rating because of its density.