Natural with natural
Stone and timber have been used together for centuries. A hardwood deck has the same quality of natural variation as Harrogate gritstone, and it ages in sympathy with it. That's why many owners of Duchy villas and village stone cottages choose hardwood.
Choosing the hardwood
Balau and ipe are dense, durable decking hardwoods. Each has its own colour and grain. We'll bring samples and show how they look oiled and how they look weathered. Supply and certification matter too; we'll talk you through what's available.
Oiled or silvered
Oiling once or twice a year keeps a rich brown. Many Harrogate customers prefer to let hardwood silver naturally: it softens to a pale grey that complements the stone and needs only an occasional clean.
Built properly
Hardwood is pre-drilled and fixed with stainless screws to avoid staining. The frame sits on concrete pads, uses ground-contact timber and is ventilated. Board gaps let water drain and the deck stays clear of the house's damp-proof course.
Frequently asked
Can a hardwood deck tone with oak windows and doors?
Yes, it can be chosen and oiled to sit well with oak joinery. Remember that both will weather, so we'll talk about how they'll age together.
Is hardwood decking sustainable?
It can be, when the timber comes from responsibly managed forests with recognised certification. We'll confirm the source of the timber we suggest.