Why timber for period homes
Behind a Georgian townhouse or a listed Victorian villa, a hardwood deck often feels more at home than any manufactured board. It ages gracefully, it can be cut and finished like joinery, and it's a natural material, which matters in sensitive settings. In conservation areas and at listed buildings, it's often the material councils are most comfortable with.
Hardwood choices
Dense hardwoods such as balau and ipe are durable, stable and rich in colour. Oak is another option for certain settings, though it moves more and can stain nearby stone if not detailed carefully. We'll show you samples and explain how each one weathers.
Treated softwood
Pressure-treated softwood is the economical choice, suitable for a simple deck in a less sensitive garden. It needs cleaning and treatment every year, especially in a shady York terrace.
Built to protect the house
Old brickwork needs to breathe. We keep the deck clear of the wall, below the damp-proof course and away from airbricks, sometimes with a strip of gravel between deck and wall. The frame sits on concrete pads, timber stays off the ground and gaps let water drain.
Common questions
Which timber suits a listed building?
Often a hardwood with a simple, traditional finish. Listed buildings need consent for works that affect their character, so we'd suggest discussing your plans with City of York Council's conservation team first.
Is reclaimed timber an option?
Sometimes, for features like steps or benches. For deck boards, reclaimed timber needs careful checking for soundness, so we'll advise case by case.
