Decking Defects to Look Out For

When buying decking, it’s important that you are aware of some natural occurring defects that plague other species as well as pressure-treated decking.

Some of the more common defects that you can run into are checks, knots, and splits. If you’ve ever stepped on a chemically treated wood decks, you most definitely have seen all three of those defects since they’re most common with softer and lesser grade woods.

In this one picture, you can see how knots, checks & splits have made this surface dangerous to walk on.
In this one picture, you can see how knots, checks & splits have made this surface dangerous to walk on.

Checks are a result of the wood separating across rings. They are more prevalent on vertical grain cuts of decking.

Knots are indicative of the presence of a branch that was in the lumber. Lower grade materials typically include knots and are, therefore, cheaper.

Checks and splits typically occur when the wood cells are torn apart. They are rather unsightly and can produce splinters.

Thankfully, you won’t have to worry about any of these defects if you install an ipe deck. Not only will your deck be made of premium grade materials, it will also need less maintenance,  look great and be safer than decks that are riddles with the problems outlined above.

Contact AdvantageLumber.com today for premium grade ipe decking.

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