Building a deck is an effective way to expand your living space and create an outdoor haven. With so many materials on the market, choosing the right one can feel overwhelming. If durability, stability, and low-maintenance appeal are high on your priority list, then kiln-dried decking materials can be ideal for your patio.

Read on to learn the beneficial attributes of kiln-dried decking materials. 

What Is Kiln-Dried Decking?

Air-dried lumber can take months or even years to reach a stable moisture content. Kiln-dried wood undergoes a controlled drying process in a specialized chamber or kiln. Here, temperature, humidity, and airflow are uniformly regulated to extract excess moisture from the wood. This can produce a deck board with a significantly lower moisture content (typically around 6-8%) than air-dried materials.

Perks of Kiln-Dried Decking Materials

Choosing the suitable material for your deck determines its longevity and look. Discover why kiln-dried decking is the ideal foundation for your project.

Minimizing Warping and Cracking

Traditional air-dried lumber is susceptible to warping, twisting, and cracking as it dries and adjusts to its environment. This movement can lead to uneven surfaces, board gaps, and a compromised deck.

Kiln-dried decking material has already undergone the drying process in a controlled setting. With its lower moisture content, the wood is far less likely to experience any drastic dimensional changes. This produces a uniform deck that retains shape and provides a smooth walking surface for many years.

Enhanced Durability

Excess moisture in wood promotes the growth of mold and mildew that can attract wood-destroying insects. With its lower moisture content, kiln-dried lumber creates a less hospitable environment for fungi and pests, promoting long-term deck performance.

Faster Installation and Reduced Maintenance

The controlled drying process of kiln-dried decking streamlines the installation process. Since this wood is dimensionally stable, there’s less chance of it getting damaged during installation. 

Furthermore, the reduced moisture content in kiln-dried decking minimizes the need for constant maintenance. While regular cleaning is always recommended, you won’t have to deal with excessive shrinking or swelling that might necessitate frequent restaining or resealing.

Standardization for a Flawless Aesthetic

Kiln drying also elevates aesthetics. Unlike air-dried wood, which can exhibit inconsistencies in color, kiln-dried deck material achieves a consistent, more finished look. The precise drying process ensures each plank dries uniformly, resulting in a consistent color and a higher-quality finish for your deck. 

Additionally, kiln-dried wood boasts greater structural integrity, allowing for further milling without compromising stability.