Using exotic hardwood for your deck can end up saving you hundreds in the long run!
Homeowners often think that because something is labeled “exotic” that it is more expensive, but this isn’t always the case. In fact, because of all of the benefits that come with using exotic hardwood on your deck, you’d actually save hundreds, if not thousands! While it’s not just the savings over time, or the longer lasting materials that typically draws homeowners to the exotic hardwood section, it really should be.
We all know that Mahogany, Red Balau , and Tigerwood are beautiful. That their hypnotic dark brown and reddish grains are something to behold. But there is so much more…
1) Durability of exotic hardwood
Exotic hardwoods are an extremely durable building material because of their density, resistance to rot and decay, and flexibility. Hardwoods produce more oil than softwoods like cedar, which means they are more resistant to water, rot, insects, etc. They are also far less likely to split and crack, and can withstand the suffocating dry air and rapidly changing conditions that we see here in Colorado.
Because these woods are far denser, they will last longer. A cedar deck might last 20 years, but an exotic hardwood deck will last 25- 30.
It is also due to these facts, that exotic hardwoods require less maintenance, which means less time staining and sealing, and more time enjoying your deck.
2) Simple maintenance!
When we say that exotic hardwoods need less maintenance, we mean it. In most cases, you’ll only need to reseal it every other year as opposed to every year. Staining will only need to be done when you notice considerable fading, which will happen at a slower rate than with other decking materials.
In most cases, the only maintenance needed is a spray down with the hose, or a quick sweep to get off all the wet leaves in Fall.
3) A natural resistance
Another reason why an exotic hardwood is an excellent choice for decks in Denver is that it has a natural resistance to all the things cause a deck to decay and need replacing. Other materials will need protective finishes to avoid harmful damages like moisture, but the resins within exotic hardwoods allow the material to resist moisture, rot and insects without those extra finishes. They also tend to have a little more protection against the damages from the sun, because of those natural oils within.
4) Best Value
Exotic hardwoods also provide the best value for those cost conscious consumers. A material like tigerwood are less expensive than composites, yet more expensive than softwoods – but will out-live both with ease. Not only is it considered a more beautiful decking material than most others, it will last longer, and will stay looking great throughout its lifetime. Most decking materials will start to splinter or crack, or fade, or creak, but exotic hardwoods with give you all the beauty of a hardwood deck without as much hassle.
Call Rocky Mountain Forest Products at: 866-534-2108. Or visit our lumber yard during business hours!
