Besides being a popular indoor flooring option, hardwood flooring has widespread use in outdoor areas such as decks, patios and poolside. Hardwood flooring installed indoors is often subjected to light uses, such as foot traffic, stationary furniture and appliance placement. As a result, general wear is minimal with care and maintenance. Outdoor use, however, exposes the flooring to many potentially destructive elements, such as moisture, heat, fire and insect attack, which make it vulnerable as a choice for the outdoors.
With proper selection, care and maintenance, it makes for a viable option. For outdoor hardwood flooring installation, take the following into consideration.
Fire Damage
Whether it's from artificially introduced-barbeque and grills or naturally occurring-lightning and bush fires, fire is highly destructive towards wood. Though most species are relatively resilient, some species, such as resinous pines, readily ignite.
Choose fire-resistant species instead. Natural hardwoods are resistant due to high moisture content and compact grain orientation. Also, consider using fire-retardant preservatives in prone areas such as the grilling section or in areas predisposed to fires such as decks near dry brush and vegetation.
Fungal Attack
Fungi thrive under conditions including wide availability of nutrients, oxygen, moisture and favourable temperatures. These variables are abundantly available in the outdoors. Treat the wood using preservatives that discourage the growth of fungi.
Insect Attack
Termites and lyctids are the most destructive insects for wood flooring. Their activities include eating into wood and boring holes weaken the structure and make for an unattractive floor.
Engage your timber installation expert for help with on-site preparation and wood species selection. Most of these insects prefer frequent or consistent contact with the ground, so elevation, chemical treatment and proper ventilation of the wood reduce chances of attack.
Weather Damage
Weathering occurs from the combined effects of UV rays, moisture and rapid drying. This leads to gradual surface degradation, roughness and formation of cracks and pits.
Application of protective surface finishes reduces the onset and progress of weathering. Also, include the use of physical barriers such as awnings to protect the wood from these elements.
Aside from the above variables, proper design and set-up are crucial. This includes surface elevation, detailing of joints, wood planks layout and orientation, choice of fasteners and many more. A hardwood flooring expert can help you choose and install the right hardwood flooring for your outdoor use. They can also advise you on how to take proper care of the floors and prolong their lifespan.