Debunking 5 common myths about tropical hardwood decking

There is a whole lot of timber misinformation out there. If you are looking into tropical hardwood decking for your next project but are confused about conflicting statements and vague information, we’ve got you. As tropical timber experts, here are 5 common myths, debunked by our team.

1. Tropical Hardwoods Are Tougher Than Softwoods

If any supplier is claiming that all tropical hardwoods are, without a doubt, tougher than softwood decking options, it is a major red flag. This just is not true. What is true is that, while many hardwood species do provide better durability and strength for decking projects than softwoods, it is not the case across the board.

Balsa, for instance, is a tropical hardwood that really is not very durable at all. If you chose Balsa for your decking, it would rot far more quickly than a more durable softwood, such as Canadian Western Red Cedar or European Larch.

2. Tropical Hardwoods Are Bad for the Environment

It is easy to assume that all tropical hardwoods contribute to deforestation, but that is (thankfully) not the case. Sustainably sourced tropical timber which is harvested under strict guidelines can actually support long-term forest conservation, especially when backed by independent certifications such as PEFC or FSC. Responsible forestry encourages continuous replanting, protects biodiversity and provides vital income to local communities, making it an excellent choice for our planet and people.

The real issue is not tropical hardwood, it is unsustainably sourced tropical hardwood. By working with a reliable supplier, such as our team at EcoChoice, you can ensure your decking is part of the solution rather than the problem.

3. Tropical Hardwood Decking is Hard to Maintain

Definitely not true! A well-chosen, durability class 1 tropical hardwood will have a lifespan of over 25 years without any annual oiling or staining. When you choose the right species, your hardwood decking is going to be incredibly durable, meaning it can withstand external threats such as moisture and insects with ease. It will be strong and dense, so it will not splinter or dent easily.

The trick here is to make sure you are choosing a strong, durable tropical hardwood species. Reach out to us for help finding your perfect match.

4. Tropical Hardwood Decking is Very Expensive

It is true that quality tropical hardwood does typically cost more upfront, but the myth is that it is “too expensive” to be worth considering. The reality? It often saves money over time.

As we mentioned, durable species such as Ipe, Ekki and Yellow Balau can last several decades (sometimes over 50 years with proper care). This reduces the need to replace decking boards over time and drastically cuts back on maintenance costs, making it a cost-effective choice. If you plan on keeping your decking around for years to come, that difference in upfront cost could end up paying for itself.

5. Tropical Timber Decking is Difficult to Work

Again, this is not true across the board. While some topical timber species will be hard to work  if you do not have specialist tools, there are options for hardwood species which are better suited for DIY enthusiasts. Iroko, for instance, is a great choice for decking if you are not used to working with timber, and it will bring exceptional durability and strength to your construction.

Find the Right Tropical Hardwood Decking

There are countless tropical hardwood species out there which are ideal for decking. If you are not sure which exact species of timber you want, our team will be more than happy to help. Let us know what you are looking for, and we will find the right tropical timber for the job.

Chat with our team today.