Timber Decking Vs. Concrete Decking
Decks can be used in your home to extend your living area, to serve as a patio for relaxing or to be a part of garden landscaping. Decks are typically constructed by a few basic steps; laying a foundation groundwork, installing a frame, and setting up the timber decking planks.
Two popular materials used for decking include concrete and timber. While both popular options, timber decking typically emerges as the better material to use for your outdoor decks. The following are some of the reasons why you should use timber over concrete when it comes to decking.
Heat conduction
When you have hot summer days or cold winters, the concrete deck will conduct heat and make the interior and floors too hot during the day, or too cold during the night. Timber, on the other hand, insulates heat and keeps your patio comfortable at any time of the day or night.
Aesthetics
Concrete structures are generally hard to maintain or renovate. If there is a chance that the concrete decking wasn't constructed properly, or if the initial design wears on you as a homeowner, changing things up will be a very timely and costly process.
For example, concrete roof and floors styles cannot easily change without serious structural work by a professional decking service. In comparison, timber is easier to use and manipulate. This means that with a bit of experience, you can handle/modify it without professional help. It also means that you can experiment with it more to achieve a satisfactory look/design. Timber can be treated with beautiful polishes and different kinds of paint to achieve your desired result.
Timber also brings out a natural look to your deck. It looks and feels like an extension of your garden area. Pattern designs are also easier to achieve on timber.
Cost
Compared to concrete, timber is the cheaper option when it comes to decking. The construction process when using timber is more affordable, as you don't need expensive machinery to move the blocks around. It is also safer and reduces the risk of injury because timber is a much lighter material.
Acoustics
A deck made from timber has great acoustics when it comes to sound, making it feel like a warm space. Concrete tends to kill and dampen sound once it hits the wall.
Environmentally sustainable
Timber, harvested from renewable sources, is not toxic and contributes to the atmosphere by lowering carbon dioxide concentrations.
For more information about the benefits of timber decking, contact companies like Bowens.