Thread: Timber Deck Dilemma - What to Use

I cant comment on the use of spotted gum but i used Merbua to cover my deck using dekties (google "nonaildecking") and used decking glue and have had excellent results.

The only problem i can see with "over engineering" is if you use nails to fasten the boards you will have a lot of nail heads showing on the surface.

Using dekties combined with good deck glue reduces any cupping to zero as the ties hold the boards from the sides preventing the sides from being able to lift up and warp. It is a time consuming process to lay the deck this way but for me it is worth it. If you did ever want to sand the deck down the track you wont have nail heads in the way. Also you'll never have to worry about nail heads sticking up.

Good luck with whatever way you choose to go.

Ben

Give Modwood a little chance. Home - ModWood

I know it is not everyone's cup of tea but the pros just outweigh the cons. I've built 3 decks myself and I am very happy with them.

I have a deck that's been down about a year. I used blackbutt seconds and batten screwed them down as I was after an industrial look. I didn't keep the oil up and it's grey now but I sort of like it that way.
I looked at using a dektie type product but found out it was not recommended for Australian hardwood over a particular thickness. My boards are 120 x 35.
I personally don't like merbau unless is sourced from sustainable managed plantations. According to the good wood guide "Nearly all merbau sold in Australia comes from an illegal source". Not sure if that is true or not but it gives me pause for thought to use something else.
http://www.goodwoodguide.org.au/sear...;id=1200619895