Traditional wood deck: Typically 10 to 15 years. Capped composite: Industry experts agree these boards can last 25 to 30+ years. Capped polymer (the best of the best): Because of its superior material composition, capped polymer boards can last much longer, potentially 50 years or more.Sep 8, 2021
Can you use 5 4 deck boards?
The extra material of 2×6 boards increases the distance it can span between joists. A 12′ (3.6m) wide deck using 5/4 deck requires ten joists for 16″ on centre spacing. The same width deck using 2×6 decking, with the larger 24″ (600mm) spacing will only require seven joists.
What decking material 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.
How long should a treated wood deck last?
A deck made of untreated wood can last anywhere from 10 to 30 years. Decks made of treated wood and composite materials can last as long as 50 years.
What thickness is a deck board?
NOTE: Standard boards are often called a 5/4 board when referring to traditional lumber, which means the actual thickness is typically somewhere between 1” and 1 ¼”. Thicker boards are often called a 2 x 6 when referring to traditional lumber, which means the actual thickness is somewhere between 1.2” and 1.5”.
What is a 5 4 inch board?
5/4 means approximately 1-1/4″ thick. 6/4 means approximately 1-1/2″ thick. 8/4 means approximately 2″ thick.Feb 6, 2017
All lumber, from the common 2x4 to specialty marine plywood, is either pressure treated or not. Pressure treated wood does last longer without rotting and resists insect damage, but it's not right for every purpose either.Apr 4, 2018
Are deck boards treated?
Most treated deck boards that are available for purchase from building supply stores are wet. The treating process immerses the boards in a combination of chemicals that protects the boards from bugs and rot, but also adds moisture to the wood.
Do they make untreated deck boards?
Additional Packaging/Handling Charges May Apply. This pine thick deck decking is 15% thicker than standard 5/4 decking. The thicker profile creates a stronger and sturdier deck floor and overall structure.
How long should 5 4 deck boards last?
Longevity of 5/4 decking Treated decking will last as long as its cared for, or close to it. “Wooden decks have a life expectancy of 20 years according to Citi Bank and the National Home Builders Association (NHBA).
How thick should decking boards be?
Most composite brands have the same thickness, but softwoods and hardwoods will range from 1" to 2" thick for decking. Softwoods should be at least 1 1/4 inches thick for a 16" on center span. 2 inches thick will allow for a 24" on center span.
Is it better to use 2x6 or 2x8 for deck?
For upper-level decks, 2x10 is recommended as the minimum size to use for strong guard post connections. 2x6 joists should only be used on ground-level decks that do not require, and will not provide for, any guards. Most decking is not strong enough to support longer spans than 16".
Is it better to use 2x6 or 5 4 decking?
5/4 x 6 is produced specifically for decking and is milled with a radius edge or bull nose. 2x6 is thicker and is stronger, but is also more expensive. For lumber decking, both the moisture content of the lumber and the environment its installed in matter.