Being aware of the differences between 5/4 and 2×6 may make the decking selection easier. The thickness of the decking can affect the spacing of the joist and the elevation of the support structure. However, it is necessary to choose between 5/4 and 2×6 lumber for outdoor decking prior to designing and building a deck. Selecting the type of decking, whether it’s pressure-treated, cedar, hardwood, PVC, composite, or metal, is usually a matter of preference and budget. What’s the Difference Between 5/4 Decking and 2×6? $2.31 to $2.44 PLF for pressure-treated SPF $1.50 to $1.52 PLF for pressure-treated SPF Wet or green wood flush so the gap expands to between 1/8” and 1/4" as it dries or cures Green or wet wood flush so the gap expands to between 1/8” and 1/4" as it dries or cures Up to 24” when perpendicular to joists, and 16” when laid diagonally Up to 16” when perpendicular to joists, and 12” when laid diagonally Thicker and stronger by the same material it can span to 24” Thinner, so not as strong as the same 2圆 material it can span to 16” Higher grade wood used to finish deck has radius rounded edges that produce more shadowingĬommonly used for framing, so not as pretty unless high grade, has more square cut edges for a smoother more solid look Here are a number of key points to consider when choosing between 5/4 or 2×6 decking.Ĭedar, cypress, redwoods, pressure-treated pine, spruce, and fir, and hardwoods like mahogany, teak, Ipe, and oak, plus PVC, composite, fiberglass, and metal planksĬedar, redwoods, cypress, pressure-treated pine, spruce, and fir, and hardwoods like mahogany, teak, Ipe, and oak, plus PVC, composite, fiberglass, and metal planksįlat top and bottom with rounded, almost bullnose edges or sidesįlat top and bottom with squared or slightly rounded edge corners The planks are thicker than most other deck boards, making them more expensive, plus they are heavier and may require a stronger substructure framing, which also increases the cost of a deck. The greater thickness makes the planks more solid or less springy, and less likely to cup. when placed perpendicular to joists, and 16” O.C. The thickness of a 2×6 plank allows it to span 24” O.C. Softwood 2×6 decking should be high-quality appearance-grade lumber so it is more visually appealing. The type of wood or material, as well as the length, affects the cost of the deck board. Deck boards are commonly available in 8’, 10’, 12’, and 16’ lengths with longer boards available as special orders. However, 2×6 decking may also be untreated softwoods, cedar, redwood, Ipe, teak, mahogany, PVC, composite, or extruded aluminum.Ī 2×6 is nominally 2” by 6”, but after planing and sanding, its actual dimensions are closer to 1-1/2” by 5-1/2”. Typically, when used as decking, pine, spruce, and fir planks are pressure-treated to prevent rot and protect from insects, mold, and UV rays. They are also used as deck boards, railings, and even deck joists. 2×6 Deck BoardsĢ×6 lumber has many purposes from floor, wall, and roof framing to furniture. Greater distances in either orientation generate bounce or spring in the decking, which can lead to other issues. when laid perpendicular to joists, and 12” when run diagonally to the joists. The distance 5/4 deck boards can span depends on their orientation to the joists. They are the more common decking choice in much of North America. The thinner depth makes the planks lighter and more economical than thicker dimensions. Hard and softwood boards are planed and sanded with rounded corners or edges, and typically come in lengths of 8’, 10’, 12’, and 16’, but longer 20’ and 24’ are available at a premium. The actual measurements though, are closer to 1” to 1-1/16” by 5-1/2”. The type of decking material affects the budget line and aesthetics of the deck build.Ī 5/4 x 6 plank is nominally 1-1/4” thick and 6-inches wide. Softwoods like cedar and redwoods, and hardwoods like teak, mahogany, and Ipe, have a natural resistance to rot and insects, so aren’t usually treated before installation. Softwoods such as spruce, pine, and fir are typically pressure-treated with chemicals to prevent rot and protect from insects, mold, and UV rays. When selecting 5/4 deck boards there are a number of options ranging from softwoods and hardwoods – treated or untreated, composite, PVC, and even metal decking. They provide the surface that covers the deck framework of joists and beams to prevent slipping or falling between the joists. The main purpose of 5/4×6 planks is to finish the surface of a deck upon which people walk, sit, or recline, so they are typically high-quality appearance-grade lumber. Is It Better to Use 2×6 or 5/4 Decking?.What’s the Difference Between 5/4 Decking and 2×6?.
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