CONSULTING ” DECKING BOARDS ” Durability

Durability of a wooden deck

Fungi and mold decompose wood over time. The durability classes or resistance classes according to the DIN standard indicate the resistance of different types of wood to fungal attack. Tropical woods are generally much more durable outdoors than European woods.

The resistance class provides an overview

While wood in resistance class 1, such as Cumaru, has a lifespan of over 25 years according to the DIN standard, wood with low resistance, such as Douglas fir, can be attacked by fungi after just five years. All decking timbers at Betterwood achieve the highest resistance class. You can find an overview of the resistance class of the best-known decking woods in our wood encyclopedia.

Constructive wood protection

In addition to the natural durability of wood, other external factors determine the durability of wood. Therefore, the DIN standard must be understood only as a guide and not as a guarantee. The durability is also influenced by the ambient moisture and the structural wood protection, among other things. In shady places where the wood is exposed to constant moisture, its durability is reduced compared to a sunny, rather dry environment. The terrace should also be well ventilated and the wood should not be constantly standing in water. A terrace with a slight slope, for example, will last longer.

Wood care for a longer service life

In addition, the durability of a wooden deck can be extended with wood care products can be extended. Impregnation protects against rot, blisters and algae. Decking oil and front edge wax prevent cracking. And an annual cleaning removes algae and leaves.