ᐅ Wooden Decking – Which Type of Wood to Choose, or WPC Decking?

We are planning our terrace and are leaning strongly towards a wooden deck. Now we are looking for suitable types of wood. So far, we are considering oak. Of course, we do not want tropical hardwoods, but at the same time, it shouldn’t start to rot after just three years. What wood have you chosen and why?

We had a balcony with typical Douglas fir decking boards for 4 years... despite protection from sun and rain, they weathered quickly and looked unattractive. Wooden terraces are generally maintenance-intensive. Oak probably also turns gray quickly and requires annual treatment with oil (possibly even twice a year)... which can become costly.

Besides, I would be concerned about the tannin stains...

Is WPC an option for you?
It looks like wood and partly is wood. But it also contains some plastic.
It’s more affordable and lasts longer. However, it also gets warmer.

Is it really durable? There are many reports online about stains from even the smallest bird droppings. That would be problematic. Also, our south-facing side was not considered carefully. It will probably get too hot.

Maybe also consider untreated larch. It will turn a nice gray, which I would like. We also use it for hunting stands, etc. But no wooden terrace will definitely last longer than 10 years.

If you want wood, how about robinia?

Hard and moisture-resistant. In my opinion, discoloration over time is inevitable when exposed to full sun on a south-facing terrace.