Question
What is an alternative to pressure-treated wood framing for a deck?
I want to put a front porch on my home (north side). I spoke with the contractor and we agreed ipe would be really nice, but he said it would cost a fortune to frame it. He suggested pressure-treated wood, and I reminded him I'm not a fan of it. What alternatives would you suggest?
Answer
I have used "Tigerwood" to surface decks and porches with great results.
- Please investigate the product to be sure you are happy with its origin.
- Frame the deck in pressure treated (PT) to keep cost down.
Alternatively, an all-time winner is white oak fastened with stainless screws.
For more information:
Read Marian Keeler's "What are the best green alternatives to wood for decking?"
Also, Cynthia Phakos's "Wood deck or synthetic lumber? Is PVC a definite no-no?" lists alternatives to pressure-treated wood for decking.
