What is the best wood for pool decking?

Top 3 Types Of Wood For Pool Decking

When it comes to quality, availability and price, the best wood for pool decking is Balau, Garapa, Jatoba, Masarranduba, don’t forget Pine.

• Garapa

Garapa wood, described with beauty, density, and durability, Garapa is a cost-effective option compared to other exotic hardwoods. Its natural resistance to rot, decay, and insect damage makes it an ideal choice for exterior structures, including wooden pool decks.

In South Africa, particularly in Cape Town, Garapa’s resilience to the region’s diverse climate conditions—ranging from intense sun to heavy rains and coastal humidity—ensures that it remains a reliable and long-lasting decking material. Its affordability per square meter further enhances its appeal, providing homeowners with a durable and aesthetically pleasing decking solution without breaking the bank.

• Jatoba

Jatoba, commonly known as Brazilian Cherry, is a hardwood native to Central America, with most of the supply imported from Brazil. Renowned for its exceptional hardness and durability, Jatoba is an excellent choice for wooden decking.

In South Africa, particularly in Cape Town, Jatoba’s resilience to wear and tear, as well as its natural resistance to rot and insect damage, make it ideal for outdoor use. The region’s diverse climate, ranging from intense sun to heavy rains and coastal humidity, demands a robust material like Jatoba that can withstand these conditions while maintaining its beauty and structural integrity.

• Massaranduba

Massaranduba, also known as Brazilian Redwood, is a beautiful and exceptionally durable hardwood native to South America. Its rich, deep color and impressive strength make it an excellent choice for wooden decking, especially in regions like South Africa and Cape Town.

In these areas, Massaranduba’s natural resistance to rot, decay, and insect damage is particularly valuable due to the varying climate conditions. Its durability ensures that decks can withstand the harsh sun, occasional heavy rains, and coastal humidity, providing a long-lasting and aesthetically pleasing outdoor space. Find out more about Massaranduba decking in our blog here.

• Balau

Balau, also known as Borneo Teak, is a dense and durable hardwood native to Southeast Asia, including Malaysia and Indonesia. Its exceptional strength and resistance to rot, decay, and insect damage make it an ideal choice for various construction applications, particularly outdoor decking.

In South Africa, and specifically in Cape Town, Balau’s ability to withstand harsh weather conditions—such as intense sun, heavy rains, and coastal humidity—makes it a popular option for wooden decking. Its rich, natural tones and fine texture add aesthetic appeal, while its high density ensures long-lasting performance. Additionally, Balau is often more affordable than other exotic hardwoods, providing a cost-effective yet premium solution for outdoor structures.

• Pine

Pine is a popular choice of wood for wooden decking due to its affordability, availability, and ease of workability. Treated pine can resist rot, decay, and insects, making it durable with proper maintenance. However, it requires regular upkeep and may not be as long-lasting as hardwoods or composites. Alternatives like cedar, redwood, hardwoods, composite, and composite decking offer varying benefits in terms of durability, maintenance, and cost, but pine remains a cost-effective and versatile option for many homeowners.

Contact us to find out which popular wooden decking wood type would suit your requirements and to get a quotation.