What's the Best Thickness for Deck Boards? We Break It Down

When planning a new deck build or considering a renovation of an existing outdoor living space, one of the most overlooked details that can have a profound impact is deck board thickness.

The depth of your decking plays a key role in not just appearance, but the structural integrity, lifespan, and capabilities of your deck.

Standard 1-Inch Deck Board Thickness

The most common thickness for today's deck boards falls right around one inch, or 5/4 size boards in traditional lumber dimensions. This includes decking made from woods like pressure-treated pine as well as composites and some PVC materials.

These standard one inch deck boards offer a familiar finished look and feel underfoot. The size provides adequate durability for the average residential deck while keeping costs reasonable compared to thicker options. Expect a lifespan of 10-15 years with proper maintenance.

The main downside is that standard thickness deck boards cannot span joists as far apart as thicker options, limiting the substructure design. Additionally, their strength works well for typical foot traffic but is not suited for extra heavy structural loads.

Reasons To Consider Thicker Deck Boards

Thicker 2x6 Lumber Deck Boards

Some traditional wood decking uses thicker 2x6 size boards with approximately 1.5 inch actual thickness. This old school lumber delivers a substantial feel underfoot. 2x6 deck boards cost moderately more than standard planks but their resilient strength and beautiful real wood grain makes them popular for crafting stunning, sturdy decks built to last.

Thicker wood boards like 2x6 are able to handle significant weight loads without concern of damage thanks to their robust structural integrity. The increased durability also translates into less maintenance over decades of use.

Thicker Composite and PVC Deck Boards

In addition to wood, thicker deck boards are also now available in composite and PVC materials. These boards are mold and moisture-resistant. They blend durability and performance with easy upkeep.

Thicker composite and PVC decking materials pride excellent strength and support capabilities while avoiding downsides like splinters. This allows for use on elevated decks and in structural applications while delivering ultra-low maintenance ownership.

Joist Spacing Impacts of Deck Board Thickness

From a structural standpoint, a key advantage of thicker deck boards comes for joist spacing flexibility they allow in your sub structure framing.

Most standard deck board thicknesses of around one inch require joist spacing of either 12 inches or 16 inches on center. However, advanced deck boards in thicker 2x6 or 2 inch dimensions can safely span 24 inch joist gaps without sagging or losing integrity.

This lets builders craft decks with fewer joists total, saving on lumber expenses. Just be sure to have proper joist spacing validated by local codes which dictate structural needs.

Load Bearing Capabilities Based on Thickness

While today's standard deck boards handle typical residential foot traffic just fine, their strength is limited for bearing heavier loads. Thicker decking unlocks superior capabilities.

Testing shows that two inch thick deck boards available from quality brands can support over 2000 pounds concentrated weight per square inch without damage. Compare this to just 100-400 pounds for average one inch deck boards.

The exceptional load ratings mean thicker decking can easily handle gathering crowds, furniture, hot tubs, and everything in between while thinner planks would be at high risk of failure.

Durability and Longevity Gains

Board thickness also plays a sizeable role in determining expected lifespan until replacement becomes necessary. Thinner planks often show visual wear and structural deterioration faster.

Thicker wood and composite deck boards stand up to heavy foot traffic for decades with little visible damage accumulation even in harsh weather extremes. The extra thickness provides long term resiliency traditional thinner decking cannot match.

Appearance and Luxury Perception

With their substantial footprint and finishes, thicker deck boards transform the look of any deck they are installed on. Many homeowners choose this decking specifically for visual appeal.

Thicker wood decking looks stunning with its natural grains and color depth. Premium composites mimic exotic hardwoods. While PVC offers luxury aesthetics with complete imperviousness to weather.

Overall, thicker deck boards communicate quality craftsmanship for a more upscale, rewarding deck ownership experience that thinner planks cannot replicate.

Building Code Requirements on Thickness

For elevated decks or more complex designs, your local building codes will dictate minimum deck board thickness needed to meet structural regulations.

Common limits require decking be at least 1.5 inches actual thickness for second story decks above ground level. Codes also often mandate thicker boards on hillside decks or those with steep slope angles.

Be sure your deck builder confirms the code restrictions in your area during the planning process so thickness requirements do not delay the project.