Having installed countless decks, boardwalks, garden borders, and wooden structures over the years, I’ve seen firsthand the key differences between hardwood, softwood, and composite decking. A common question I hear is, “Is hardwood decking worth the investment?” Given its durability, beauty and premium quality, hardwood decking has a lot to offer—but there’s a lot to consider before making your decision.
In this article, I’ll dive into the advantages of hardwood decking, compare it to popular alternatives like softwood and composite, and explore why it might be the best choice for your garden project. If you’re debating between hardwood, softwood, or composite decking, read on to find out what sets hardwood apart and why it could be the ideal choice for your outdoor space.
Table of Contents
- Pros and Cons of Hardwood Decking
- What Makes Hardwood Better than Softwood for Decking Applications?
- Why Choose Hardwood Over Composite Decking?
- What Type of Decking is Best in the UK?
- Common Types of Hardwoods for Decking
- How Long Should a Hardwood Deck Last?
- Is Hardwood Decking Expensive?
- Caring for Hardwood Decking
- In Summary – Why Choose Hardwood Decking?
Pros and Cons of Hardwood Decking
Let me first discuss some of the potential benefits and drawbacks of hardwood decking. Here’s a breakdown of the pros and cons to help you make an informed decision:
Pros of Hardwood Decking
- Durability and Longevity
Hardwood decking is known for its exceptional strength and resistance to wear and tear. Many hardwood species, like iroko, ipe, and balau, are naturally resistant to decay, insects, and harsh weather conditions, which means they can last for decades with minimal maintenance. This durability makes hardwood decking a great long-term investment. - Natural Beauty and Aesthetics
The rich colour variations, unique grain patterns, and natural lustre of hardwood decking offer a timeless, elegant look that softwood and composite materials often struggle to replicate. Over time, hardwood develops a silvery patina that many homeowners find attractive, though it can also be treated to retain its original colour. - Low Maintenance Needs
Unlike softwood decking, which often requires regular staining or sealing, hardwood decking needs relatively little maintenance to stay in good condition. Most hardwoods need only occasional cleaning and oiling to maintain their appearance and structural integrity. - High Density and Strength
Hardwood’s density makes it highly resistant to scratches, dents, and general wear, which is ideal for high-traffic areas. This strength also makes hardwood less likely to warp or split over time, maintaining a stable and attractive deck surface. - Eco-Friendly Options
When sourced from FSC-certified forests, hardwood decking can be an eco-conscious choice, supporting sustainable forestry and reducing environmental impact. High durability also means fewer replacements, which conserves resources over the years. I’ll discuss this in more detail below.
Cons of Hardwood Decking
- Higher Initial Cost
Hardwood decking generally comes with a higher upfront cost than softwood or composite options. While the durability of hardwood can offset this initial investment over time, the price can be a significant consideration for some homeowners. - Complex Installation
Hardwood’s density, while beneficial for durability, makes it more challenging to cut and install. Sharper and stronger tools are often required, which can increase installation time and labour costs. - Potential for Colour Fading
Exposure to sunlight and weather can cause hardwood to fade to a silvery tone over time. While many people find this natural weathered look appealing, those who prefer the original colour will need to regularly treat the deck with oils or UV protectants. - Heavy Weight
The density of hardwood also makes it heavier than softwood or composite decking. This can pose challenges in certain structural or design applications, especially if the decking is installed on elevated or delicate structures. - Limited Sourcing and Availability
High-quality, sustainably sourced hardwood decking can sometimes be harder to find, depending on location and supply – we recommend speaking to specialist suppliers such as Ecochoice. It’s essential to check for FSC certification to ensure that the hardwood is sourced responsibly, which might limit available options.
Eco Credentials of FSC-Certified Hardwood Timber
As I mentioned above, hardwoods like cumaru and ipe are a great choice for your decking project, but it is important to ensure these hardwoods are supplied from sustainable sources. Our friends at Eco Choice highlight the importance of choosing FSC-certified hardwood timber for your decking project.
The Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) certification ensures that the wood comes from forests that are managed sustainably, with strict standards in place to protect biodiversity, prevent deforestation, and support the rights of indigenous communities. By selecting FSC-certified hardwood, you’re contributing to responsible forestry practices that help maintain healthy ecosystems and reduce the impact of logging on the environment.
What Makes Hardwood Better than Softwood for Decking Applications?
Hardwood decking offers significant advantages over softwood decking, making it the preferred choice for many who are seeking long-lasting beauty and durability. Unlike softwoods, which are pumped full of chemicals and tend to be less dense and more vulnerable to wear, hardwoods such as ipe, iroko, and cumaru are incredibly dense and naturally resistant to decay, pests, and harsh weather. This means hardwood decking can last for several decades, even in high-traffic areas, with minimal upkeep. That’s why tropical hardwoods are the standard choice at piers such as Hastings and Southend.
The rich, natural grain patterns and deep colour variations of hardwood provide a premium aesthetic that softwood often lacks. While softwood decking may require regular staining or sealing to stay protected, hardwood typically needs only the occasional oil treatment to maintain its appearance. Although hardwood is generally more expensive initially, its resilience and low maintenance needs often make it a more cost-effective choice in the long term, making them also more ecological.
Why Choose Hardwood Over Composite Decking?
Hardwood decking is preferred over composite decking primarily for its natural beauty and eco-friendliness. Composite decking is made from a mix of wood powder and plastic, whereas hardwood is all-natural with unique grain patterns and rich colours that get better with age. This ageing effect truly gives outdoor spaces a timeless look.
In terms of durability, hardwood is incredibly strong and resistant to scratches and fading. Although composite decking requires minimal maintenance, it can sometimes become prone to fading or sagging and warping under extreme temperatures. Hardwood, on the other hand, holds up well in various climates and requires only occasional oiling to maintain its appearance.
If you’re looking for eco-friendly options, FSC certified hardwood decking is the way to go. The same can be said for hardwood sleepers when compared to plastic sleepers which has been highlighted in an article from EcoChoice. They question Network Rail’s plans to replace timber sleepers with recycled plastic sleepers to cut CO₂ emissions. While Network Rail claims it will save 30,000 tonnes of CO₂, EcoChoice argues that timber is a better option for sustainability.
The reason is, that timber naturally sequesters carbon, storing CO₂ in the wood, while recycled plastic sleepers still produce emissions during the energy-intensive manufacturing and recycling processes. EcoChoice also criticises the idea that recycled plastic supports a circular economy, pointing out that plastics don’t biodegrade and release microplastics, harming ecosystems. All very good points!
What Type of Decking is Best in the UK?
For the best overall performance, hardwood decking or composite decking is typically the top choice for UK homeowners, depending on their priorities. Hardwood offers superior natural beauty and longevity, while composite decking provides a low-maintenance, long-lasting alternative although it’s far from being eco-friendly. Softwood can still be a good option for budget-conscious projects, but it requires more regular care to withstand the UK’s harsh weather conditions.
Common Types of Hardwoods for Decking
These hardwoods are commonly agreed to be the most suitable for decking applications.
Ipe Decking
Ipe is one of the most popular hardwoods for decking due to its exceptional durability and resistance to the elements. Known for its rich, dark brown colour with subtle reddish hues, it’s highly dense and resistant to rot, insects and extreme weather conditions. Ipe decking is incredibly long-lasting, with a lifespan of up to 50 years when properly maintained, making it an excellent choice for high-traffic and coastal areas.
Ekki Decking
Ekki, also known as Azobe, is a highly durable hardwood valued for its extreme density and toughness, making it one of the most resilient decking options. Known for its dark brown to reddish-brown colour, Ekki decking is naturally resistant to rot, insects, and harsh weather, making it ideal for outdoor applications, including decking in high-traffic or coastal areas. With proper maintenance, Ekki decking can last up to 50 years or more, offering exceptional longevity and performance, even under challenging conditions.
Balau Decking
Balau is a dense, durable hardwood known for its rich, golden to reddish-brown colour, which weathers beautifully to a silvery-grey patina if left untreated. Its natural resistance to decay, insects, and moisture makes it an excellent choice for decking, especially in climates with high humidity or rain. Balau’s strength and density ensure long-lasting performance, even in high-traffic areas, and it requires minimal maintenance compared to softer woods. Balau decking offers an attractive and reliable option at a more accessible price point than some other tropical hardwoods.
Iroko Decking
Iroko is a durable and attractive hardwood with a golden to medium brown colour that deepens over time. Known for its interlocking grain and natural resistance to rot, insects, and weathering, Iroko is highly suited for outdoor decking in various climates. Its durability and low-maintenance properties make it ideal for creating a warm, inviting look in garden spaces. While Iroko naturally withstands the elements, regular oiling helps preserve its rich colour and adds an extra layer of protection against UV exposure.
Cumaru Decking
Often referred to as Brazilian teak, Cumaru is a highly durable and dense hardwood with a deep golden to reddish-brown colour. It is resistant to rot, insects, and UV rays, making it an ideal choice for decking in various climates, including the UK. Cumaru’s durability and aesthetic appeal make it a more affordable alternative to teak, offering a long-lasting option for outdoor decking projects.
How Long Should a Hardwood Deck Last?
A well-maintained hardwood deck is one of the most durable decking options available and can easily last 25 years or more. High-quality hardwoods such as ipe, iroko, and balau are naturally resistant to rot, insects, and weathering, which makes them ideal for outdoor applications. In fact, with the right care, many hardwood decks can last 30 to 50 years or even longer.
The longevity of a hardwood deck depends on factors like the type of hardwood, climate, and maintenance practices. Regular cleaning, occasional oiling, and protection from excessive moisture through good installation can help a hardwood deck retain its structural integrity and appearance over the decades.
Is Hardwood Decking Expensive?
Yes, hardwood decking is typically more expensive upfront than softwood or composite due to the quality and durability of materials like ipe, oak and balau. However, its high density and natural resistance to rot, pests, and weathering mean it can last 25 years or more with minimal maintenance, reducing long-term costs. Hardwood’s lasting beauty and durability often add property value, making it a worthwhile investment for those seeking a premium, low-maintenance decking option.
Here are a few examples based on current availability and pricing in my area. (South West UK)
Hardwoods
- Ipe 21x145mm smooth – £87 per square meter (+vat)
- Iroko 20x140mm smooth – £73 per square meter (+vat)
- Yellow Balau 21x145mm smooth – £45 per square meter (+vat)
- Jabota 21x145mm smooth – £47 per square meter (+vat)
Softwood & Composite Comparisons
- Redwood pine 29x124mm grooved – £22 per square meter (+vat)
- HABITAT composite 22x135mm – £78 per square meter (+vat)
Caring for Hardwood Decking
Maintaining your wood decking is essential to protect it from moisture, UV damage, and wear, which can lead to warping, cracking, or decay over time. Regular care, such as cleaning and oiling, helps preserve the deck’s appearance and structural integrity, ensuring it remains safe, beautiful, and long-lasting.
Hardwood Decking
For hardwood decking, oiling once a year is usually sufficient, especially in temperate climates like the UK. Hardwood’s density allows it to naturally resist moisture and UV damage, so an annual application of oil, ideally in the spring, helps maintain its appearance and provides protection against weathering. If the deck is exposed to extreme sun or high traffic, a second oiling in late autumn can be beneficial, but in many cases, once a year is enough.
Softwood Decking
Softwood decking typically needs more frequent oiling due to its porous nature. Every 6 to 12 months is usually recommended to protect it from moisture, mildew, and sun damage, especially in climates with high humidity or rainfall. An annual oiling is often sufficient in milder conditions, but in harsher climates or for exposed decks, reapplying oil every 6 months can prolong the wood’s lifespan.
Why Tropical Hardwood is the Best Option for Decking
Tropical hardwood is widely considered the best option for decking due to its outstanding durability, natural beauty and resistance to outdoor elements. Species like ipe, balau, and cumaru are incredibly dense and hard, making them naturally resistant to rot, insects, and moisture—ideal for withstanding even harsh climates. This durability means tropical hardwood decks can last decades, far outlasting softwoods and often outperforming composite alternatives.
Aesthetically, tropical hardwood offers rich, varied colour tones and distinctive grain patterns that add timeless appeal to outdoor spaces. While the initial investment is higher, tropical hardwood’s low maintenance requirements and long lifespan make it a cost-effective and sustainable choice for quality decking.
In Summary – Why Choose Hardwood Decking?
Hardwood decking is highly durable, aesthetically appealing, and resilient to weather, rot, and insects. It’s a popular choice over softwood and composite decking due to its longevity, low maintenance, and natural beauty. Although it has a higher initial cost, its long lifespan makes it a worthwhile investment.
FSC-certified hardwood supports sustainable forestry practices, protecting biodiversity and ecosystems. This certification ensures responsible sourcing, making hardwood an eco-friendly choice.
With annual maintenance like cleaning and occasional oiling, hardwood decking can last 25–50 years. It’s more durable and retains structural integrity longer than other materials.
Hardwood is pricier than softwood and some composites, but its longevity and low maintenance often make it cost-effective over time. Prices vary, with ipe and iroko among the premium options.
