Southern Pine Decking :: southernpinedecks.com

Southern Pine Decking

Decking boards, the deck’s walking surface, have a tough job. Decking takes the harsh day-to-day punishment from weather and foot traffic, but as the most visible part of the deck, must meet high expectations for long-term fit, finish and appearance. Building professionals should offer their clients premium grades and optional features for best long-term performance. Another key to best decking performance is fastener selection and installation. Refer to Decking Fastener Guides for more information.

Pressure-treated Southern Pine is the most popular real wood decking choice. To satisfy the most discriminating homeowner, Southern Pine decking is offered in a variety of profiles and grades, along with water-repellent and re-drying options. Select the Southern Pine decking that is right for your project by reviewing the table and images here. The goal is more satisfaction for the customer and fewer callbacks for the builder.

For information on cedar, cypress and redwood, refer to Real Wood, Real Choices.

Southern Pine Decking Selection Guide¹

Decking Option	Grade	Size, inches Nominal (Actual)	Lengths, feet	Water Repellant⁴	Kiln Dried⁴
Radius Edge²	Premium	5/4 x 6 (1 x 5½)	8, 10, 12, 14 & 16	Check Supplier	Check Supplier
	Standard
Dimension	No. 1	2 x 4 (1½ x 3½) or 2 x 6 (1½ x 5½)	8, 10, 12, 14 & 16	Check Supplier	Check Supplier
	No. 2
Patio³	Patio 1	5/4 x 6 (1-5/32 x 5½)	8, 10, 12, 14 & 16	Check Supplier	Check Supplier
	Patio 2

¹ Consult your local lumber dealer or find special option producers at southernpine.com product locator. ²Radius Edge Decking (R.E.D.) is typically manufactured 1/4" round on all four edges, but may be offered 1/4" round on the top two edges only. ³Patio typically manufactured 3/8" round on all four edges. ⁴Built-in water repellant and kiln drying options improve decking performance. Learn more below.

Img Wood Comparison

Water Repellent Option

Changes in weather will cause wood decking to shrink and swell. To help resist these effects, some retailers offer Southern Pine decking that includes built-in water repellent added during the pressure-treating process. The water repellent, like the preservative, penetrates to the core of the lumber. Water repellents internally stabilize the decking to help resist dimensional changes such as cupping and warping.

Kiln-Dried After Treatment (KDAT) Option

Since waterborne preservatives are used to treat Southern Pine decking, most will still have high moisture content when purchased. However, re-dried decking is available through some retailers. Re-dried decking will be end-tagged or ink-stamped KDAT (kiln-dried after treatment) or ADAT (air-dried after treatment). The re-drying process reduces the moisture content to 19% or less, helping minimize shrinkage, checking, splitting, warping and twisting. Decking boards are stronger and stiffer, lighter in weight, have better fastener holding power and can be stained or sealed immediately after installation. Re-dried railing and other components are also available.

Finishing Options - Paints, Stains, Sealers

Homeowners should understand that pressure-treatment fights wood rot, decay and insect attack only, not damage from weather. To prevent attack from sun, rain, and snow, many finishing options are available. New deck or old, proper application of recommended coatings can improve overall appearance, extend a deck’s useful life and improve the dimensional stability of decking boards. As part of their deck building business, some pros offer refinishing services. As a rule of thumb, decks should be washed and refinished every two years. Whether done by the pro or the homeowner, the tips at Finishing, Maintenance and Inspection may be helpful.

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