Lots of our clients love the outdoor lifestyle, and ask us how to enhance their garden setting to be more comfortable and stylish so that they can make the most of their home all year round. Installing a deck is undoubtedly one of the best ways homeowners can enhance their home’s value, increase the living space, and add more functional possibilities.
Atelier TwentyOne offers stunning shou sugi ban (charred wood) decking solutions to our clients, so we know a lot about decking. When choosing decking, what you select should be considered not only on the basis of looks but also on durability. Will your deck be in full sun or shade? How much maintenance are you happy to do? What do you want to spend? What appearance do you prefer? All these factors should inform your decision.
Here are some options to explore for your decking project.
Composite Decking
Composite decking is made from a mix of sawdust, binding agents and plastic. Composite timber mimics wood and offers the benefit of low maintenance although it is initially a more expensive material. Over time, it’s less likely to splinter, more stain and fade resistant, and requires no sealing and resurfacing.
Softwood Decking
Typically softwood decking is made from fast-growing trees like Pine, making it more ecologically sustainable than hardwood. It’s a good budget-friendly option but does require more maintenance and depending on how it is treated and used, has a shorter lifespan. It’s not an ideal choice for high-traffic areas as it will fade quickly.
Hardwood decking
Hardwood decking is made from slow-growing trees like Ash or Oak, for this reason it is one of the more expensive decking options. However, its strength and resilience to environmental forces like UV, rain and rot ensures that it outperforms other materials like softwood and composite decking.
Charred Wood Decking
Shou Sugi Ban wood (also known as charred wood or burnt wood) is what Atelier TwentyOne is known for. Textural, bold, striking and resilient, it is the traditional Japanese method of charring wood with fire to create an elegant and durable architectural finish.
Charred wood makes a stylish impact, while also being a durable and cost-effective solution that lasts the test of time.
At Atelier TwentyOne, we believe charred wood decking is the superior choice in decking for two reasons:
- Durability: The process of heat treatment creates a carbon layer on the wood that makes it more weather-resistant for a low maintenance solution
- Aesthetics: The process also enhances the natural elements of the wood by drawing out a richer shade and its distinctive texture. We can customize any finish to suit your needs.
Speak to Atelier TwentyOne about your decking
We can help you create a beautiful space and guide you through selecting the best timber variety, finish and options to suit your project.
