Can you use the smooth side of decking?

There is a growing preference to fit deck boards grooved side down with the reeded or smooth side facing up. It is entirely up to you whether you lay the boards grooved side up or down but, there are a few things you should bear in mind. Deck boards with grooves are designed to channel water away from the deck.4 Oct 2017

Why is decking ribbed?

“The proper way to install a decking board is ridge side down.” The ridges are designed to allow for airflow, to stop moisture sitting in the ridge, and allow for a stronger structure. These lead to a less slippery deck as the moisture can drain better, and it can air dry.

What are the benefits of laying decking smooth side up?

– Easier to clean.
– Simple, and clean appearance.
– Grooved face down allows airflow between deck and supporting joist.

Is softwood OK for decking?

Softwood decking is an ideal budget-friendly option you can go for if you need a fast solution and it will look great right after installation. In terms of longevity, pressure-treated softwood can last for a really long time as well. However, if not treated well, softwood decking’s lifespan can last for about 15 years.19 Sept 2019

How long will a soft wood deck last?

It’s cheaper than other materials Hardwood decking has known to last over 40 years, although pressure treated softwood can last just as long if it’s treated well. Left untreated, softwood decking can last between 10 to 15 years, so over time hardwood can be a more economical material.12 Apr 2017

Which is best hardwood or softwood decking?

In general, hardwood decking will outperform softwood decks when it comes to overall “toughness” as they are extremely durable. However, softwood decking, once treated, is a much more economical choice initially, but will require more maintenance over the lifecycle of the product.27 Aug 2019

What is the best softwood decking?

Softwoods such as pine and spruce will be the cheaper option, but must be properly treated with a wood preservative — as should any cuts in the wood. Cedar is an ideal softwood choice, being naturally weather-resistant.11 May 2020

What is the best quality decking?

– #1 Pressure-Treated Wood. Among the various types of wood decking, pressure-treated lumber is the most common.
– #2 Cedar Decking. Cedar is commonly regarded as a higher-quality material than pressure-treated lumber.
– #4 Composite Decking.
– #5 Hardwoods.

What kind of decking lasts the longest?

Aluminum and Steel Aluminum decking is the most expensive out of the deck material and will last the longest with a lifespan of 30+ years. Steel decking can have a lifespan of 60+ years when correctly installed by a professional builder.

What type of decking is best UK?

– European Oak. Timeless, beautiful, high performance — you simply can’t go wrong with oak.
– Iroko. This is the first of two tropical hardwoods we’ll mention.
– Balau. Much like Iroko, Balau oozes tropical class, as well as having exceptional technical performance.
– Thermowood.
– Siberian Larch.

Why do decking boards have ridges?

Deck boards with grooves are designed to channel water away from the deck. To help with drainage, they should be fitted with a slight tilt in the direction of the grooves. Some people choose to put the grooved or reeded side face down to allow for airflow underneath the boards to prevent a build up of moisture.4 Oct 2017

Should decking be grooved side up?

The correct way to lay decking boards for most decking is smooth-side-up, with the ridges there to prevent rot and mould.19 Apr 2021

Should decking have grooves?

Why Grooves Should Go Down The grooves are meant to allow air to flow underneath the deck. This decreases the buildup of moisture. When there is less moisture, your deck is less likely to have a mould build-up. Mould and moisture are two factors that seriously affect the longevity of timber decking.