Published
June 29, 2026
by Joe Scerri, Owner
By Scerri Quality Wood Floors
As the weather warms up, homeowners throughout New York City, Manhattan, Westchester County, and the Tri-State Area spend more time enjoying their decks, patios, and outdoor living spaces. Whether you're building a brand-new deck or replacing aging boards, choosing the right wood is one of the most important decisions you'll make.
Below is a guide to some of the most popular natural wood species used for outdoor decking and what makes each one unique.
Natural wood offers a timeless appearance that many composite materials simply can't replicate. Each board has its own unique grain, color, and character, creating a warm and inviting outdoor living space.
Benefits of natural wood decking include:
With proper installation and regular maintenance, a quality wood deck can provide decades of enjoyment.
Ipe (pronounced ee-pay) is considered one of the finest decking materials available. Native to South America, this incredibly dense hardwood is known for its exceptional durability and rich, elegant appearance.
Due to its exceptional density, Ipe requires specialized tools and professional installation techniques. It is also typically sold unfinished, so applying a quality exterior wood finish is recommended to enhance its natural beauty and help protect it from the elements.
Cedar has been a favorite decking material for generations thanks to its warm color, pleasant aroma, and natural resistance to moisture.
Regular cleaning and sealing help cedar maintain its rich appearance and extend its lifespan.
Teak has long been regarded as one of the finest woods for outdoor decking, admired for its timeless beauty and exceptional durability. Naturally rich in protective oils, teak stands up remarkably well to moisture, insects, and decay, making it an excellent choice for outdoor living spaces.
As teak ages, it develops a distinguished silver-gray patina that many homeowners appreciate. For those who prefer its warm golden tones, periodic applications of a quality teak oil or exterior wood finish will help preserve its original appearance.
Selecting the proper fasteners is just as important as choosing the right decking material. High-quality fasteners help ensure your deck remains structurally sound while preventing premature wear and discoloration.
For natural wood decking, stainless steel fasteners are the preferred choice because they offer superior resistance to rust and corrosion. Woods such as cedar contain natural tannins that can react with plain steel fasteners, causing unsightly black stains and accelerating corrosion. Similarly, cypress can develop staining if lower-quality fasteners begin to rust over time.
Investing in stainless steel screws, hidden fasteners, and hardware not only extends the life of your deck but also preserves the natural beauty of the wood. When paired with proper installation techniques, quality fasteners help create a durable, low-maintenance outdoor space that will perform well for years to come.
Regardless of the species you choose, routine maintenance helps protect your investment. Seasonal maintenance is especially important in the New York metropolitan area, where outdoor decks are exposed to intense summer sun, heavy rain, snow, and freezing temperatures throughout the year.
Basic deck maintenance includes:
A well-maintained deck not only looks better but also lasts significantly longer.
The best decking material depends on your priorities.
If you want... Consider...
Maximum durability Ipe
Warm natural appearance Cedar
Natural moisture resistance Cypress
Exceptional hardness Hickory
Each species offers its own unique advantages, and the right choice depends on your home's style, local climate, maintenance preferences, and budget.
Even the highest-quality lumber performs best when installed correctly. Proper spacing, fastening methods, ventilation, and finishing all contribute to the longevity and appearance of a wood deck.
At Scerri Quality Wood Floors, we understand the characteristics of premium wood products and the attention to detail required to create beautiful, lasting results. Whether you're considering a new deck or looking to restore an existing one, quality materials combined with expert craftsmanship make all the difference.
Interested in learning more about outdoor wood options or planning your next project? Contact Scerri Quality Wood Floors to discuss the best decking solution for your home.
Call (646) 235 - 9107.
We specialize in providing custom, handcrafted hardwood flooring. Gone Finishing handles everything from sourcing, design, installation, and finishing.
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