Category Archives: Decking Options – Natural Wood

Natural Wood Decking options by Cedar Country Lumber

Modified Wood Building Materials

Nothing warms a space like real wood. It provides natural beauty that just can’t be duplicated. However, as we all know, it does have its drawbacks, which has opened the doors for science and innovation to enter. New to the marketplace and likely to only gain popularity, as the technology evolves are modified wood building materials.

Kebony modified wood products give fast growing softwoods hardwood characteristics for extreme durability and stability
Kebony Channel Siding

Using proprietary methods to modify the wood structure with the use of thermal and/or non-toxic chemical agents, fast growing woods like ash, pine, sycamore and poplar, are turned into extremely durable, long lasting exterior building materials. And like other natural wood building products, at the end of their original intended use, they can be repurposed or recycled, leading to zero waste.

These amazing new modified wood products are being found in commercial, as well as residential construction, all over the world. However, distribution seems to be a drawback.

Due to a patented process of modifying softwoods, Kebony products are extremely durable. Distributed by Cedar Country Lumber

At this time we are pleased to offer Kebony products by special order. Developed in Norway, Kebony has created a patented process using bio-based liquid that enhances the properties of sustainable softwoods to provide them with hardwood characteristics, such as extreme durability and stability. Refined and beautiful, Kebony modified wood products are backed with a 30-year outdoor warranty. They offer products for decking, cladding and millwork. Learn more HERE

Kebony decking provided by Cedar Country Lumber of Burlington, WA
Decking by Kebony, Photo and Craftsmanship by The Robbins Co

As the technology and interest in modified wood building products progresses, we fully expect many more players coming to the marketplace, as well as greater availability. We’ll keep you posted!

Before your next project, be sure to visit us! We ship nationwide.

360.757.6343

950 B Fountain Street, Burlington WA

http://www.ccLumber.com

Tropical Mahogany Deck Tiles

Looking to add natural wood warmth to an existing concrete patio or turn a flat roof into a beautiful new outdoor living space? Our KAYU® Tropical Deck Tiles™ can be installed over any relatively flat surface, including over grass or bare ground. Perfect for porches, patios, gardens, docks, or around the spa.

Easy to install, our Mahogany Deck Tiles are perfect around pools and spas

Constructed from KAYU®-Batu™ “mahogany” that is sustainably harvested from well-managed forests in Malaysia, this natural wood is a rich dark red/brown color. Extremely dense and beautiful, it is an exotic hardwood that is also naturally resistant to rot and decay.

Easily transform a plain space into a stunning new area to enjoy without any special tools or skills.

These deck tiles have an interlocking design base for easy “Do-It-Yourself” installation; using the DeckWise® Deck Tile System, you can attach tiles together easily. No messy glue, no nails, no staples. There will be a perfect match and precision spacing between every tile, every time, guaranteed. Since the deck tiles are made from kiln-dried Red Batu mahogany, there is no need to acclimate the tiles; they are ready to use right out of the box.

Mahogany Tropical Deck Tiles come ready to install

Our KAYU Tropical Mahogany Deck Tiles can be installed in a straight direction or turned to create any pattern creating a warm and unique living space, as the interlocking tabs on all four sides ensure simple DIY installation.

Boat Deck tiles 2

Because of the natural rot and resistance of the wood, these tiles are perfect for use around docks, spas, and pools.

Available Deck Tile Sizes:

  • 20″ X 20″
  • 24″ X 24″
  • 40″ X 40″

Design your new space by sketching the layout on paper or physically placing the tiles in position on the area that you plan to install the tiles. Easily create unique patterns, designs, and borders by aligning the tiles in different directions. Next, remove the tiles and be sure the area that they will be installed in is clean and free from debris. If installing the tiles over lawn or dirt, lay down a good quality weed barrier to inhibit growth up through the tiles.

Our KAYU Tropical Mahogany Deck Tiles are pre-drilled to attach the connectors to the tiles easily. Each tile connector comes with 4 ribbed clips already inserted for quickly snapping into the tile fastener holes.  Every connector also comes with 4 molded score lines for easily cutting and trimming with a utility knife to go around decking edges, corners, or any other obstacle. A handsaw, jigsaw, or power saw will be necessary to cut any tiles to fit around pipes or to adjust the tile size to fit in the space. For full installation instructions, including photos, please download the installation guide Mahogany Deck Tile Installation Guide.

To maintain the KAYU Tropical Mahogany Deck Tiles rich color, we recommend applying a good quality deck oil that is formulated for hardwood decking, such as Penofin Hardwood Oil, at appropriate intervals to maintain the rich color. Or, if preferred, the tiles can be left to weather to a soft silver-grey. Either way, the tiles will remain smooth and splinter-free and will perform admirably for many years.

Just as you would with any deck, routine cleaning with a broom, blower, or garden hose is recommended, and periodic power washing is advised.

Red Batu Mahogany deck tiles and siding

Before your next project, be sure to visit us!  We’ve got lots of quality decking products, including the one that is just right for you and your budget!

We ship nationwide!

360.757.6343

950 B Fountain Street, Burlington WA

www.CedarCountryLumber.com

Custom Milled Alaska Yellow Cedar

Grown only in the Pacific Northwest from Alaska south to Oregon, and west of the Coast Mountains, where cooler temperatures and abundant year-round precipitation is found, Alaska Yellow Cedar is a highly prized and sought-after building material choice.  Yellow Cedar lumber can be difficult to find outside the growing region, as supply is limited.

custom milled clear, Alaska Yellow Cedar cladding

Because we are located in the heart of cedar country, where both Alaska Yellow Cedar and Western Red Cedar are natively grown, we can source top-quality Cedar lumber for indoor and outdoor construction projects. If we don’t stock what you are looking for, chances are we have a relationship with a mill that can make it for you.  With shipments of specialty building materials leaving our warehouse daily to all over the US, our customers value the quality of our products and honest business practices, combined with excellent customer service and superior product knowledge.

We recently shipped a custom milled package of surfaced, knotty Alaska Yellow Cedar lumber to New Jersey for this stunning deck and railing crafted by Paradise Knoll Builders of Oakland, NJ.

Knotty Alaska Yellow Cedar decking and railing materials

“Thanks for the awesome lumber you sent us Michele. The job turned out great. People love it.”

Yellow Cypress building materials for sale

“Thanks and thanks again for your seamless delivery of some very nice lumber.” – Steven Del Colliano. Pres. ~ Paradise Knoll Builders, LLC

Before your next project, be sure to visit us!  We ship direct from the Pacific Northwest to homeowners and contractors nationwide!

360.757.6343

www.CedarCountryLumber.com

950 B Fountain Street, Burlington WA

Wood Decking Comparisons

With so many options on the hard and softwood decking market, it can be a challenge to pick the one that is just right for you, your budget, and your lifestyle.

While researching decking options, it is important to realize that there are many, many different grades and growing areas within any wood species.  The differences in grades and where the wood is grown, milled and graded will affect your decking price, availability, and, most importantly, the performance.

Comparison chart for wood decking that includes cost, durability and fire ratingFor example, within the “cedar” deck board market, there are many grades, grading standards, as well as growing regions within the Pacific Northwest where Western Red Cedar and Alaskan Yellow Cedar are grown, which directly affects performance.  Decking cut from premium, clear, mature, coastal grown, Western Red Cedar will outperform decking manufactured from inland grown knotty Cedar boards time and time again.  The same is also true for exotic hardwood decking milled and graded from other countries, including Ipe and Mahogany, two very popular hardwoods that are sold under a variety of brand names, all graded to different brand standards.   

At Cedar Country, we only stock Kayu® Mahogany Batu and Golden Balau “Mahogany” hardwood decking.  Both are similar to Ipe in density, strength, and durability, but without the high price. Sourced from tropical rain forests using sustainable practices, these decking products are 100% natural, 100% organic, 100% clear grade, kiln-dried for consistency, and always carefully inspected by Kayu exclusive graders.

Sourced from sustainable forests, you can count on the quality of our Kayu Red Batu Mahogany decking

Backed with a 25-year limited warranty, when you purchase Mahogany Decking from Cedar Country, you can be sure you are buying the highest quality Kayu® carefully selected hardwoods.  Every time.

Before your next project, be sure to visit us!  We ship nationwide!

360.757.6343

950 B Fountain Street, Burlington, WA

www.CedarCountryLumber.com

Western Red Cedar Decking – Goodman Project

Prized for its timeless beauty and work-ability, Western Red Cedar is a perfect choice for decking by homeowners and contractors alike.

Naturally resistant to rot and decay, good quality Western Red Cedar decking will perform admirably in our damp Pacific Northwest climate for many years to come.  Milled beautifully, it lies flat and stays straight; and because it is soft, no pre-drilling or special tools are required for installation.

We offer Western Red Cedar decking in a variety of widths and thicknesses, as well as grades. With all of this, it is easy to see why it is readily chosen over more expensive hardwoods and manufactured decking.

To help you design and build your dream deck using Western Red Cedar, the maximum spans for the various sizes on a continuous beam are as follows:

Thickness xWidth       Grade                     Span

5/4              4                    Clear                           16”

5/4              4                   Knotty                          12”

5/4              6                   Clear or Knotty           16”

2                 4                  Clear or Knotty            24”

2                6                   Clear or Knotty            24”

To help you figure the correct amount of decking needed for your project, use the following footage calculations to cover 100 square feet:

Size                                        Linear Feet

5/4×4  or  2×4                        325

5/4×6  or  2×6                        211

For other tips on designing your dream deck and installing your Western Red Cedar decking, please visit our blog posts on those subjects by clicking

HERE for Design

HERE for Installation 

Always be sure to check your local building codes for spans, clearances, and railing requirements in your neighborhood.

Please enjoy these fantastic project photos of the Goodman deck using our top quality Western Red Cedar.  5/4×6″ knotty decking was used for the deck top.

5/4x6" Knotty Western Red Cedar Decking

Top Quality Western Red Cedar Decking will perform well for many years

Knotty Red Cedar Decking

Western Red Cedar Deck with Hog panel railing

cedar railing with welded wire "hog panel"

Nick Goodman recently left this review on our Facebook page regarding this project.
“I want to thank you for all of your guidance and help in choosing not only the wood but also the method of hog wire railing installation. You guys have great prices, wonderful customer service, and I couldn’t be happier with the outcome. Thanks again.”

We provide delivery in our local area, as well as the San Juan Islands, Skagit, Whatcom, Island, Snohomish County, and beyond!  Outside our area, shipment is arranged via common carrier.

With shipments leaving our warehouse daily, our customers know they can count on the quality of our products, backed by excellent customer service and superior product knowledge.

Before your next project, be sure to visit us!

CedarCountryLumber.com

1.360.757.6343

950 B Fountain Street, Burlington WA

Howell Deck – Hat Island

We recently received these pictures of our customer’s project out on Hat Island.   They purchased the 2×6 Knotty Alaskan Yellow Cedar Decking from us last summer and recently completed the main floor deck.  As there is no ferry service to Hat Island, the customer arranged transportation with a local barge company to get him, his truck, and his decking over to the Island a little bit at a time.

Alaskan Yellow Cedar is an ideal choice for decking in the Pacific Northwest climate. Naturally resistant to rot and decay, West Coast Indian tribes used it for canoes and totem poles.  Alaskan Yellow Cedar is sought out for boat building, structural framing, siding, decking, and roofing in today’s marketplace.  Due to its ease of workability, it is also used for intricate carvings and in making musical instruments.

We hope you enjoy these beautiful pictures of the Howell’s lovely new deck and the view from their little piece of heaven out on Hat Island.

2x6 knotty alaskan yellow cedar decking installation

Knotty Yellow Cedar Decking for Sale

Alaska Yellow Cedar handrail

Alaskan Yellow Cedar Decking and Railing is ideal for damp climates

Weathered Alaskan Yellow Cedar Decking

This Alaskan Yellow Cedar was not treated and will be left to grey out, which is perfect for this beautiful island setting.  The integrity of the wood is not compromised in any way if left untreated.

In addition to Alaskan Yellow Cedar and Western Red Cedar decking, we also offer hardwood decking, such as our Red Balau “Mahogany,” as well as man-made composites including Azek, Timbertech, and Zometek.

Before your next project, be sure to visit us ~ we ship nationwide!

www.CedarCountryLumber.com

1.360.757.6343

950 B Fountain Street, Burlington WA

Cedar Roof Top Deck

Sometimes, thinking outside “the box” can have great rewards! Our customer recently completed this beautiful rooftop deck to enjoy our upcoming beautiful Pacific Northwest evenings. When the weather cools and the “rainy season” begins, the Western Red Cedar deck panels can be removed and stored. Because it is light in weight and naturally resistant to rot and decay, Western Red Cedar is the perfect choice for this type of application.

5/4x4 Western Red Cedar Decking

Each decking panel was made using our 5/4×5” Knotty Western Red Cedar decking, a somewhat uncommon size that allows the look of a wider board but a little lighter on the pocketbook. This decking is Kiln Dried prior to final milling, making for a smoother finished deck board.  Beautiful and affordable!

To make each of the removable deck top panels, the 5/4×5″ radius-edged Western Red Cedar decking was screwed to 2×4” Cedar runners cut to the appropriate size for each of the rooftop panels.  The size of your panels will depend on your particular roof, all while taking into consideration how the panels will be moved and stored.  If you will be moving the panels up and downstairs by yourself, for ease of removal, smaller panels would work better than something that would be stored on the same level moved by two people.

To allow for expansion and contraction of the decking and allow rain and debris to fall through, allow adequate spacing between the deck boards.  We recommend at least a 1/4″ gap between boards.  When installing the Cedar deck boards to the runners, to prevent corrosion, we recommend using Stainless Steel or coated screws at least 2-1/2″ long for 5/4″ decking.

20140703_173620 (2)

For more information on planning and installing your decking, including a list of tools and other items needed; please visit our blog on Deck Installation by clicking HERE.  If you have other questions, our team of experts is happy to help.

Before your next project, be sure to visit us

950 B Fountain Street, Burlington, WA

360.757.6343

www.CedarCountryLumber.com

We ship nationwide!

Golden Balau Hardwood Decking

Sourced only from countries that are leaders in ecological, sustainable forestry practices, our Golden Balau Hardwood Decking is a dense, exotic hardwood known for its strength and durability. Similar to Teak in color, this 5/4×6″ decking will perform admirably for years, even in wet climates.  One of the hardest, strongest, and most durable of all woods, our Golden Balau Hardwood Decking is highly resistant to decay, insect and mold.

  • Warm, gold-reddish-brown hues
  • Class A Flame Spread Rating (same as concrete and steel)
  • Similar to lpe in density, strength, and durability
  • Proven performer for decades in demanding applications, including commercial, high traffic areas, as well as in extreme climates
  • Excellent value compared to similar hardwoods and composites
  • It can be as low maintenance as you desire, with no ill effects to its longevity or durability
  • Naturally resistant to rot, decay, insects, and mold
  • Sustainably harvested from well-managed forests
  • 100% Clear Grade and kiln-dried
  • 25 Year Limited Warranty
  • In stock and ready to deliver!

Golden Balau Hardwood Decking used as vertical fencing

If desired, you may simply allow your Golden Balau Hardwood Decking to weather to a lovely grey patina with no ill effects after installation.  And, if you change your mind, you can always clean it and oil it to bring back the wood’s naturally rich hues and warmth.

Should you wish to keep the beautiful range of colors from day one, we recommend finishing the Golden Balau Hardwood Decking with a penetrating oil specifically formulated for use on hardwoods, such as Penofin Hardwood exterior. This unique formula penetrates deep into the wood fibers and does not create a surface film. This allows the wood to breathe, as well as stabilize it.

We recommend coating all four sides before installation.  To maintain the colors, re-stain your deck’s surface with a hardwood decking oil approximately every 6-12 months, depending on your climate conditions.

Golden Balau Hardwood Decking Performs well in even extreme climates

 All this at pricing similar to clear-grade softwoods and composite decking!

Because all-natural wood is subject to expansion and contraction as the moisture in the environment changes, shrinkage, expansion, checking, and other movement are normal occurrences.  For help with installation, as well as care and maintenance, please refer to our Red Balau “Mahogany” decking blog by clicking HERE.

Golden Balau Decking is extremely durable

Before Your Next Project, Be Sure to Visit Us!

We Ship Nationwide!

www.CedarCountryLumber.com

Toll-Free 866.757.6343

Deck Installation Tips

If you haven’t already, please be sure to visit our previous blog, Tips for Designing Your Dream Deck. Once you have determined the deck you want to build, here are some tips to help you get closer to having the deck of your dreams!

#1 – Before You Do ANYTHING else, contact your local Building Department to discuss what permitting is required and what you will need to do in order to obtain a permit, such as drawings, fees, etc. Next, contact your utility companies to ensure no lines will be disturbed or disrupted.

deck part identification chart by DIY Technologies

Figuring Your Materials

After you determined your joist spacing and size, deck height, and footing requirements (see Designing Your Dream Deck if you need help with this), put your framing package list together. Be sure to include a count of corrosion-resistant fasteners, including all the joist hangers, post bases, post to beam to connectors, as well as any flashing that is needed.

All deck framing should be Ground Contact Pressure-Treated material with a minimum ACQ rating 0.40 pcf.

Decking needed per 100 square feet (includes 5% waste)

  • 4” product – 320 lineal feet
  • 6” product – 210 linear feet

Determining the correct number of fasteners will vary based on the decking selected and joist spacing. When face screwing (or nailing) a 6” product down on framing that is 16” on center, you will need approximately 350 screws per 100 square feet, and approximately 480 screws per 100 square feet with the same 16” on center joist framing for 4” material, when using two screws per joist. For other types of fasteners, refer to the manufacturer’s recommendations.

If you have selected to use Western Red Cedar as your decking, now is the right time to
determine what product you will use to help protect the wood. We recommend using good quality penetrating oil product with mold and mildew inhibitors, as well as UV protection, such as Ultra Premium Red Label Penofin. This should be applied to all four sides of the decking before installation for optimum results.

If you have selected an exotic hardwood for your decking, such as Red Balau “Mahogany” or Ipe, you can either choose to apply a penetrating oil to the wood to help it maintain its beautiful color prior to installation (all four sides is recommended), or if you wish for it to simply weather to a beautiful silvery – grey, you can skip this step.

Red Balau Mahogany Decking

Other Items Needed

  • Chalk Line
  • Circular Saw
  • Concrete
  • Hammer
  • Crescent Wrench
  • Drill and Bits
  • Dust Mask
  • Extension Cord
  • Framing Square
  • Gloves
  • Hearing Protection
  • Hand Saw
  • Hoe & Hose (to mix concrete)
  • Ladder
  • Level
  • Nail Set
  • Pencil
  • Pick
  • Plumb Bob
  • Post Hole Digger
  • Ruler
  • Safety Glasses
  • Screwdrivers
  • Shims
  • Shovel
  • Socket Wrench
  • String
  • Tape Measure
  • Tool Belt
  • Wheelbarrow

Getting Ready to Build

Once your materials have arrived on the job site, keep them covered when not in use to keep them clean, as well as to prevent twisting and warping, especially when it is hot or under direct sunlight. They should also not be stored directly on the ground, as they will absorb moisture.

Framing Tips

When framing your new deck, be sure to allow for proper water drainage. A deck should angle away from the structure a minimum of 1/8” for every 8 feet to reduce the possibility of standing water. In general, a deck should be installed 18” off the ground for proper airflow (or as specified by the decking manufacturer) to provide adequate ventilation to minimize cupping and warping of the deck top.

It is advised to wear gloves while handling pressure treated materials and to always use ear and eye protection when sawing, drilling or cutting wood. Leftover scraps of pressure-treated materials should be disposed of properly. Never burn them.

Install the ledger to the house. This will provide stability to the deck. Use string to find your footings and to ensure your deck is square. Remove the sod and dig your footings for the posts.  Post holes should be at least 24” deep or up to 4’ deep, depending on the frost line in your area, as well as the height of the column.

Install your perimeter posts, then attach your beams to your posts. Attach braces to any posts over 5’ high. Next, layout your joists and install them using either joist hangers or by toenailing. Add blocking between your joists to minimize warping.

Decking Tips

When installing the deck top, be sure to allow for adequate gaps between boards. This provides ventilation, as well as room for water to drain away. Inadequate gap space between boards puts additional strain on the fasteners and can cause broken screws or nail pops. Avoid over-driving any fasteners.

Laying out decking

When face screwing any hardwood decking, pre-drilling is recommended; as well as when screwing or nailing close to the edge of any wood board to minimize splitting.  Allow small gaps between butt joints to allow the material to expand and contract during weather changes.

Measure once, cut twice!

Our team of experts are available to assist you with questions regarding product selection and materials.

timbertech decking

Before your next project, be sure to visit us!

950 B Fountain Street, Burlington, WA

360.757.6343

www.CedarCountryLumber.com

We Ship Nationwide!