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Wooden decking refers to the lumber planks and structural system used to create outdoor floors, patios, and walkways, typically attached to a home or as a freestanding structure. The choice of wood species is fundamental to the deck's performance, aesthetics, and maintenance requirements. Traditional choices include pressure-treated lumber (usually Southern Yellow Pine infused with chemical preservatives for rot and insect resistance) and naturally durable softwoods like Western Red Cedar or Redwood, prized for their natural oils and attractive grain. In recent decades, high-density tropical hardwoods such as Ipe, Cumaru, and Tigerwood have gained popularity for their exceptional hardness, longevity, and resistance to decay, though they come with higher cost and sustainability considerations related to rainforest harvesting.

Beyond solid lumber, the decking market has been revolutionized by wood-plastic composites (WPC) and capped composites, which blend wood fibers with plastic (often recycled) to create a low-maintenance, splinter-free product that resists rot and insect damage. Modern wooden decking requires a holistic system including proper structural framing (often with galvanized or corrosion-resistant hardware), a reliable water-shedding design with adequate slope and gaps between boards, and a suitable finish. While traditional wood requires regular sealing or staining to maintain appearance and longevity, composites offer color-through technology that minimizes maintenance. The choice between natural wood and engineered composites ultimately balances authentic aesthetics and sustainability against long-term durability and reduced upkeep, with both serving to extend living space into the outdoors.