Decks and pergolas continue to be popular expressions of outdoor love among homeowners. And even while alternatives are becoming more and more available, timber is still the preferred decking material. Here are some reasons why timber decking rocks.
Timber Decking Is Good For the Planet
Timber is a renewable natural resource. If sourced out from responsible suppliers that comply with Australian Forestry Standard Ltd (AFS) regulations and the Australian Illegal Logging Prohibition Act 2012 then there is no danger of degrading forest environments, reducing biodiversity, building up of greenhouse gas emissions and all other environmental, social and political costs of obtaining timber irresponsibly.
In this respect timber differs from other materials such as steel and stone, which are not renewable and whose extraction creates a permanent imbalance in the environment that often leads to ecological, socio-economic and political issues. Synthetic materials such as composites, on the other hand, are non-biodegradable and require proper disposal when being discarded.
Trees are also nature’s CO2 storage bins, efficiently absorbing this greenhouse gas and keeping it away from the atmosphere where it contributes to global warming. Timber production processes also use less energy than extracting minerals and metals from the earth, or producing and disposing composites. The carbon footprint of timber is way below that of other materials.
Timber Decking Is Good For Your Health
Spending time outdoors is great for your health. It calms the mind, rejuvenates the body and lifts the spirit. Now scientists, doctors and people who spend lots of time on timber decks say that you enjoy the very same health benefits when spending time in timber structures. We are not aware of any similar studies and results for other decking materials.
Timber Decking Looks Awesome
When it comes to visual appeal, nothing comes close to timber’s natural beauty. From the mild, pale sheen of softwoods to the rich golden hues of pine to the luxuriant reds and deep browns of hardwoods, timber comes in a wide range of colours to match your decking design. In the hands of skilled craftsmen, timber decking can look absolutely amazing.
