Hardwood Deck Builders
in Annapolis
There are many different types of hardwood decks, each with its own unique benefits. Some of the most popular types of hardwoods used for decks include cedar, redwood, and pressure–treated pine. Cedar and redwood are both naturally rot–resistant, making them ideal for decks that will be exposed to the elements. Pressure–treated pine is treated with chemicals that make it resistant to rot and insect damage, making it a good choice for decks that will see a lot of wear and tear.
- Hardwood deck materials are typically more durable and longer lasting than composite or PVC deck materials.
- Environmentally friendly if properly sourced
- Hardwood deck materials can be refinished or stained, while composite and PVC deck materials cannot
- Typically have a more natural look and feel than composite or PVC deck materials.
Cedar Wood Deck Builds
Cedar wood decking is a popular choice for many homeowners because it is a durable and attractive material. Cedar is a softwood, so it is not as strong as some of the other options on the market, but it is still a very durable material. Cedar is also a rot–resistant wood, so it is ideal for decks that are exposed to the elements. Cedar is a beautiful wood, and it will add value to your home.
Pressure Treated Wood Decking
Pressure treated lumber is lumber that has been treated with chemicals to protect it from rot, insect damage, and fungal decay. The benefits of using pressure treated lumber in decking include extended life of the deck, reduced maintenance, and protection from the elements.
Pressure treated lumber is also less likely to warp or rot over time, making it a more durable option for outdoor structures like decks. In general, if you are building a deck that will be exposed to the elements, it might be best to use pressure treated lumber. If you are building a deck that will be protected from the elements, as in a screened porch, or covered deck, you may opt for natural wood for similar reasons.
Some would say, to own a well-designed custom crafted exotic wood deck is to to hold a certain appetite for the exquisite or say have a certain dash for sophistication. In most cases, we’re not talking about a basic bland deck here, we’re talking about an accent to an outdoor Artscape. Usually accompanied by top notch hardscaping, gardens, a walkway or two, a patio or maybe a stainless cable railing or even recessed lighting, these additions become one of the many personal touches a homeowner of this type will relish and take pride in.
Not that one can’t get a real outdoor oasis with a modern composite material, but there are certain feelings and emotions that exotic hardwood deck evoke that just can’t be replicated by other materials.
Of course, there are other, more practical reasons to construct a beautiful hardwood deck for your home as well, such as design flow, structural limitations and durability, not to mention the fact that splinters on the souls of your feet are less likely with a nice hardwood like IPE.
Hardwoods Such as IPE, Garapa, Mahogany, Cumaru, cypress, Teak and tiger wood are some examples commonly found in modern deck construction. In general, the supply of these woods is from non-us territories/ countries and is shipped in. We refer to these as “exotic hardwoods”
A beautifully constructed hardwood deck is sure to be warm and inviting with a touch of class, and Deck Doctor MD is pleased to bring a lot of knowledge to the table in this arena. We started with wood and has always been our original passion.
IPE or “Brazilian Walnut” is the most common exotic hardwood decking material found in the back yards around our MD/ DC area. This wood is the durable and heavy, with a crushing strength of 13,600 lbs per Square Inch. This wood is so dense that it sinks instantly when thrown into the water, In fact, they used to call it “Ironwood” back in the day at the lumber yard.
Color/Appearance: Heartwood can vary in color from reddish brown, to a more yellowish olive brown or darker blackish brown; sometimes with contrasting darker brown/black stripes. In certain species, there are powdery yellow deposits within the wood.
Now, with an ever changing global economy, other species of lumbers are often readily available and should be considered if a real hardwood deck is something your tastes desire.
Exotic Hardwoods
Beauty is held within the eye of the beholder, and many would agree that a well constructed hardwood deck is the only real deck to have. Usually the folks that fancy these enticing levels of outdoor allure are well-to-do and have the means to pay for them and the upkeep needed; more on that in a minute.