Choosing the Right Deck Board Size: A Comprehensive Guide

Ready to start your deck-building journey but unsure where to begin or what size deck boards to purchase? Choosing the perfect deck board is crucial for your deck's design, longevity, and strength. Whether you're dreaming about weekend barbecues or a cozy spot for morning coffee, getting the deck board size right is the first step to making those dreams a reality. With the expertise of Cedar Supply, your trusted lumber company, let's ensure your deck project is a success.

What Are Decking Boards?

When planning your outdoor space, choosing the right decking materials is crucial. But before diving into specifics, a common question pops up: "What are decking boards?". Simply put, decking boards are the main surface layer of your deck, where you'll be lounging, entertaining, and enjoying the outdoors. They come in a variety of decking materials, like wood (think cedar, redwood, or pine) and composites, each offering unique aesthetics and varying maintenance requirements.

Standard Decking Board Size

Standard sizes can vary, but here's what's most common:

• Width: Typically 5-1/2 inches
• Thickness: 2x6 Wood Decking measures about 1-½” Thick while most Composite Decking measures around an 1” Thick. Often referred to as 5/4 (pronounced "five-quarter").

The Ideal Thickness of Deck Boards

When planning your deck, the thickness of the deck boards is more than a minor detail - it's a foundational decision that affects everything from the deck's feel underfoot to its ability to withstand the elements and heavy use. Here’s a closer look:

5/4 Board Thickness

• Typical Use: The 5/4 decking (pronounced "five-quarter") is the standard choice for most residential decks. But how thick is 5/4 decking actually? Despite being labeled as 5/4, these boards are usually only about 1 inch thick.
• Advantages: It strikes a balance between durability and cost-effectiveness, making it a popular choice for homeowners who want a sturdy deck without going over budget.
• Considerations: While adequate for general use, if your deck is subject to frequent heavy loads or high foot traffic, you might want to learn what size boards are for the deck floor and then look into thicker options or additional framing for support.

Thicker Options

2-Inch Boards (measuring 1-½”): More common in wood decking, these are ideal for decks that need to withstand heavy snow loads, large gatherings, or commercial use. Their increased thickness offers superior strength and longevity.

How Do You Pick the Perfect Deck Board Thickness?

Selecting the right decking board thickness involves considering both practical and aesthetic factors:

• Climate: In areas with severe weather conditions, thicker boards can provide the extra sturdiness needed to deal with heavy snowfall or extreme temperatures.
• Usage: Consider your deck's intended use. Do you want to know how thick deck boards need to be for hosting host barbecues, parties, or family gatherings? Opt for thicker boards can ensure longevity and durability, especially under heavy foot traffic and frequent use.
• Aesthetics: Thicker boards tend to give a more robust and substantial look to your deck, which might be preferable if you’re going for a solid, imposing appearance.

By realizing these aspects of deck board thickness, you can make a more informed decision that ensures your deck looks good and also holds up to the demands you expect to place on it.

Wide or Narrow? Selecting Decking Board Widths for Your Outdoor Space

Choosing the right decking board width affects the look of your deck, its stability, and how easy it is to put together. Let’s quickly break down what you need to know about deck board width:

How Wide are Deck Boards, and What Should You Choose?

• 4 inches: Perfect for a more refined, classic look. Great for smaller decks or where you want to show off some intricate design work.
• 5.5 inches: This is the go-to width for most decks. It's versatile, giving you that traditional deck feel without overwhelming your space.
• 8 inches: These boards make a bold statement. They're best for larger decks and reduce the number of seams, giving you a cleaner, more modern vibe.
• Multiple widths: To get a unique design for your deck, use all 3 widths in a rotating pattern.

Tips for Picking the Right Width

Match it to your deck board’s actual size: Larger decks can rock those wider boards without looking too busy, while smaller decks might look better with narrower options.

Think about your style: Love a sleek, modern look? Go wider. Prefer classic or detailed? Narrower might be your best bet.

Consider the Installation: Wider boards can mean fewer pieces and cuts, but they're heavier and might need more support underneath to avoid sagging.

Deck Board Size Chart: Simplifying Your Selection Process

Explore the variety of sizes available for deck boards with this easy-to-read chart, ensuring you pick the right dimensions for your project.

Available Dimensions

Utilization Tips for the Deck Board Size Chart

• Thickness Selection: Consider the deck's usage. Thicker boards offer more durability and can handle more weight, making them perfect for decks expected to support heavy objects like hot tubs or a large number of people.
• Width Consideration: Wider boards can make a small space appear bigger and are easier to maintain with fewer gaps. Narrow boards work well for intricate designs or when a more textured deck surface is desired.
• Length Choice: Opt for a longer size of deck boards to reduce the number of cuts and seams, giving your deck a more professional and polished look. Ensure your support framework is adequate for longer lengths to prevent sagging.

Choosing What Size Deck Boards to Use for Your Perfect Deck

Selecting the right size of deck boards truly is a blend of art and science; it's all about finding that sweet spot between aesthetics and functionality. With the right measurements and some careful planning, you’re all set to build a deck that's not just a treat for the eyes but also durable and practical for your lifestyle. So grab your tools, maybe a coffee, and let’s get building!

Not quite ready to tackle the job yourself and don’t know what size deck boards to use? No worries at all. At Cedar Supply, we understand that sometimes it's best to leave things to the pros. We can connect you with a list of professional installation contractors throughout northern Colorado. Whether you're looking for advice on materials or need a full team for the build, we’re here to help make your decking project a success. Let's make your dream deck a reality!