Guide To Home Improvement - Friendly Home Decks

About 80 percent of all new decks built in the U.S. are built with pressure-treated Southern pine. It's inexpensive and looks good. But environmental it is not.

According to Grist.org's environmental Q & A column, "Ask Umbra," your best option for green decking is Forest Stewardship Council (FSC)-certified wood, widely available at home improvement big box stores. Products carrying the FSC label are, "independently certified to assure consumers that they come from forests that are managed to meet the social, economic and ecological needs of present and future generations," according to the FSC's Web site. Expect to pay a 5 percent premium for FSC-certified decking.

As green remodeling and home improvement grows in popularity, the availability of environmental new deck products and product options continue to grow--and prices decline.

Here's a look at the top options in environmental decking:

Tropical hardwoods

Ipe, also sold was Ironwood or Pau Lope, is stronger than oak, redwood or cedar; is knot-free; lasts 40 years or more and resists insects and decay. But its sustainability comes into question given the distance it must travel to be imported. It's also expensive--about $22 per square foot installed, or if you do it yourself, $5 per square foot--and requires pre-drilling for fasteners.

Composite

A blend of recycled plastic and waste wood fibers, composite decking has long been a darling of environmentalists. Composite decking doesn't splinter, fade or need to be painted or treated. But it's heavy and costly--about $2.60 or more per square foot, without installation. And its sawdust doesn't naturally decompose.

Composite decking featuring the same texture on both sides is a little more expensive (in the $3 per square foot range,) but is less complicated to install yourself.

Engineered Composite

Grooves on the underside of engineered composite planks make boards lighter without giving up stiffness, and also allow for the use of hidden fasteners so no screws are visible on the face of your new deck.

With several high-quality green home decking options, it is possible to create a new deck that appeals to your aesthetic preferences while supporting the environment.

About the Author:

Colorado-based freelancer Mary Butler writes about homes and gardens.

Source(s):

Jeanne Huber High-tech decks

Umbra Fish Umbra on building a deck May 09, 2006