We retreat to our decks to savor the sunrise with a cup of coffee, delve into a good book on the couch, and host gatherings with friends. As the costs of building materials rise and climate concerns mount, there's a heightened preference for utilizing sustainable building materials when designing these outdoor areas. However, there remains ongoing debate about what constitutes environmentally sustainable decking. Now, let's explore sustainable decks in Spokane.
Cedar Decking
Unquestionably desirable, strong, and incredibly stable, cedar releases fragrant oils that not only have a pleasant perfume but also stop deterioration and naturally ward off insects. Cedar comes from properly managed forests and is sourced sustainably, making it a fully renewable resource. For every tree that is taken down, at least three more are planted, and the production of red cedar has no adverse environmental effects.
Redwood Walls
Redwood has several benefits beyond its exquisite beauty. Compared to other hardwoods, it is lighter, allowing for the use of standard tools that produce fewer greenhouse gas emissions. Redwood is an excellent choice for decking since it is more than 20% stronger than cedar and is resistant to insects and rot.
Bamboo Decking
Bamboo's rapid growth enables the harvesting of mature stems while mitigating deforestation. Regular pruning of older stems encourages new growth, reinforcing the resilience of this versatile plant. Bamboo stands out as a superior option for sustainable decking compared to hardwood or composites. Additionally, bamboo utilizes photosynthesis to absorb significant amounts of CO2 during its growth, a process that continues throughout its lifespan. However, it's worth noting that many bamboo decking products are made from split bamboo stems, which compromises their sustainability.
Nevertheless, this environmentally friendly material remains suitable for constructing decks.
Composite Decking
A great alternative to traditional wood decking, composite decking is typically made from a blend of recycled materials, such as reclaimed wood fibers and plastic. By diverting these materials from landfills, composite decking helps reduce the demand for virgin wood and plastic, conserving natural resources and reducing deforestation and fossil fuel consumption associated with plastic production. Composite decking also requires minimal maintenance, eliminating the need for environmentally harmful chemical treatments, stains, and sealants over its lifespan, thereby decreasing the release of harmful chemicals into the environment. Furthermore, composite decking often has a longer lifespan than traditional wood decking, reducing the frequency of replacement and further lessening the environmental impact of decking materials.
Final Takeaway
Are you still overwhelmed by all the deck options? Fear not! Contact the deck designers in Spokane who can help you choose sustainable decks so you may design the outdoor area of your dreams without compromising what is most important to you. Therefore, find the renowned deck designer in your area and build your dream deck!
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