Complete Guide to Treated Pine Decking

If you want to add beautiful and functional outdoor living space to your home, a deck made from Australian-treated pine can be an excellent choice.

In this blog we will dive deeper into treated pine decking, discussing its benefits and maintenance requirements. Whether you’re a homeowner looking to build a new deck or a contractor interested in learning more about treated pine decking, this blog is for you.

What is a treated pine deck?

Treated pine decking is a type of outdoor flooring made from pine timber that has been chemically treated to protect it against decay, insects, and other environmental factors that can damage the wood. Australian-treated pine decking is popular due to its affordability, availability, and natural beauty.

Treated pine decking sizes 

Pine wood decking timber is available in various sizes to suit applications and design requirements. Here are some of the most common Australian-treated pine decking sizes:

• 90mm x 22mm: 90 x 22 treated pine decking is the most common size for treated pine decking. It is a versatile size that can be used for most decking applications, including residential and commercial projects.
• 140mm x 22mm: 140 x 22 treated pine decking is ideal for larger decking areas, such as verandas or balconies. It provides a broader surface area for lounging and entertaining.
• 70mm x 22mm: 70×22 treated pine decking best suits smaller decking areas, such as pathways, garden steps or a fence. It is also commonly used for decking on raised garden beds.
• 190mm x 45mm: This is a large size of treated pine decking, and it is typically used for structural support beams or joists.

It is important to note that treated pine decking lengths may vary slightly between suppliers and manufacturers. We recommend consulting with a decking professional or supplier to determine the best-sized treated decking board for your specific needs and application.

Treated pine decking prices

Treated pine decking cost is the lowest among other materials and is a popular choice for decking. 

The cost of treated pine decking in Australia can vary depending on various factors, such as the deck’s size, the timber’s quality, and the supplier’s location. When it comes to pine decking price, it can vary significantly depending on the type of timber you choose.

For instance, 70mm treated pine decking prices will significantly differ from those of 90x22mm treated pine decking.

It’s essential to get multiple quotes from various suppliers and contractors to compare prices and ensure a fair price for Australian-treated pine decking. Check Futurewood’s decking price calculator for accurate prices. Remember, there are better options than cheap-treated pine decking. Additionally, the installation cost and additional features, such as stairs or handrails, should be considered when budgeting for treated pine decking board prices.

Maintaining a treated pine deck

Maintaining a treated pine deck is essential to ensure its longevity and keep it looking great. Here are some great tips for maintaining a treated pine deck:

Regular cleaning: 

Regularly clean your deck timber using a mild detergent and a soft-bristled brush to remove dirt, grime, and stains. Avoid harsh chemicals or pressure washers, as these can damage the timber easily.

Seal or stain the deck: 

Apply a high-quality deck sealant or stain every 1-2 years to protect the timber from moisture, UV rays, and other environmental factors. This will help prevent the timber from warping, splitting, and decaying.

Repair any damage: 

Inspect your treated deck regularly for any signs of damage, such as cracks, splits, or rot. Replace any damaged boards or joists promptly to prevent further damage to the deck.

Clear debris: 

It is recommended to get rid of any leaves or twigs that may have accumulated on the treated pine decking regularly. This will prevent moisture from gathering up and consequently avoid the risk of damage and rotting.

Avoid heavy furniture or equipment: 

Avoid placing heavy furniture or equipment, such as grills or hot tubs, directly on the deck pine, as this can damage the timber and cause it to warp.

Pros and cons of treated pine timber decking

Treated pine decking timber is a popular choice for outdoor spaces. Here are some of the pros and cons of using treated pine timber for decking:

Pros:

Cost-effective:

Treated timber decking is generally cheaper than other decking products, making it a more affordable option for homeowners. 

Availability:

Treated pine timber is widely available across Australia, making it easily accessible for decking projects. You can buy treated pine decking wherever you are.

Durability:

Properly treated decking boards can be highly durable and resistant to insects, rot, and decay, making them a durable option for outdoor spaces.

Easy to work with:

Timber pine decking is relatively easy to work with, making it a popular choice for DIY decking projects.

Cons:

Appearance:

Some people may find the appearance of pine decking boards less attractive than other types of decking materials.

Maintenance:

Treated pine deck boards require regular maintenance, including sealing, staining, or painting, to ensure longevity.

Environmental concerns:

The treatment process of pine timber involves using chemicals, which can have negative environmental impacts if not appropriately handled.

Prone to warping and splitting:

Treated pine decking boards can be prone to warping and splitting over time, particularly if it is not well-maintained.

Last words

While treated pine decking is a popular and cost-effective option for outdoor spaces used in building materials, there is a serious alternative to treated decking timber, and that is composite decking. Composite decking far outshines treated pine decking due to high quality and durability, low maintenance, and resistance to fading, staining, and mould.

It is also an environmentally friendly option, made from recycled materials, so perfect for homeowners who care about the environment and so while in certain instances, composite decking may be more expensive upfront, it can save homeowners money in the long run due to its low maintenance requirements and long lifespan. 

Ultimately, while treated pine decking is a good choice for many homeowners, those looking for a more durable, low-maintenance, and sustainable option may consider composite decking a superior alternative.