When the touch and appeal of traditional and natural beauty counts, wood decking by nature’s design and intent can endure the punishment of sun, wind and weather.
When it comes to pressure-treated wood, some types are better than others. Pressure-treated wood is so called because it is exposed to chemicals under high pressure. The chemicals protect the wood from termites and fungal decay. There are different grades of pressure-treated wood for different uses, identified by a chemical retention level.
The lowest chemical-retention level is for decking and the highest level is for ground contact lumber and permanent wood foundations.
To keep wood decking looking its best, you can apply a water-repellant treatment, and then stain or paint.
For annual cleaning and maintenance, pressure-wash for mildew and mold buildup and re-apply an oil-penetrating stain.