Hardwood decks can look stunning and more akin to the deck of yacht than the sodden and slimy image the word ‘deck’ can often conjure. Hardwood is more stable and less susceptible to swelling and shrinking than softwood, so gaps between boards can be narrower, making it a good choice for more demanding projects.

Hardwood is a more expensive material than softwood, although different varieties vary hugely. Hardwood decks require the same maintenance as softwood but they tend to have higher natural oil content and are denser than the softwood equivalent, so they will deteriorate at a slower rate if left unmaintained. However good and regular maintenance is essential to prolong the appearance and life of your deck