Insect Resistant Decking

Insect resistant decking is what homeowners look for when they live near large stands of trees. Ipe is the brand most known for its insect resistant properties. This composite decking has the highest ratings when it comes to resisting rot and decay as well as insects, even without any laminate coating over wood for the decking. The US Forest Service rates the Ipe decking for a possible 25 years or more, so you know that you will have insect resistant decking that will last a long time.

If your wood decking is in good condition, you can waterproof it and make it into insect resistant decking with possible laminate coating over wood deck. The laminate coating could be a clear coat of urethane or stain or you can use various colors of stain to add this coating to the deck. The idea behind adding the laminate coating is that it protects the top layer of the wood that sees that most traffic from the weather and from insects. However, this coating will wear off and you will have to refinish the wood deck on a yearly basis.

If the composite decking is out of the reach of your budget, you can add a possible laminate coating. Over wood decks this coating adds a shine to the wood, but there are various coatings that you can get, such as a matte coating or one with a satin finish. You do have to realize that the laminate coating will not protect the underside of the wood, which is still susceptible to rot and decay. The laminate coating does not make the entire depth of the board equal to insect resistant decking. If you want a new deck and cannot afford the higher priced vinyl, plastic of composite decking, the placing a laminate coating over the wood deck is a viable alternative.

It is possible to have your wood deck last for many years when you apply a laminate coating. Even if you want the wood to age naturally, you do need to apply some kind of treatment, especially if you live in an area where there are a lot of trees. In such a location insect resistant decking is essential because of the insects that can fall to your deck from the trees. A possible laminate coating over wood deck is not hard to apply. You simply use a roller paintbrush, but if you want to get into all the cracks and crevices, the application will take you longer. You will need to apply the laminate coating with a regular paint. You can also spray on the laminate coating and just wait for it to dry.

Insect resistant decking is just that – resistant. It is not repellent, which means that the insects won’t be able to live on the wood of your deck. However, with a possible laminate coating over wood deck, they will not be able to eat through the coating and destroy the wood of your deck forcing you to make repairs. Look for insect resistant decking or laminate coating to protect your deck and keep it looking as good as new.