Building a deck that doesn’t wreck the planet

Tried thermally modified ash for a small backyard bench a couple years back - figured it’d be a good “test drive” before committing to a bigger project like a deck. It’s definitely tougher than regular hardwoods, but I’ll admit, it doesn’t quite get that aged patina I love from reclaimed boards. On the plus side, it’s held up through two winters without a hint of rot or warping, which is more than I can say for my neighbor’s pressure-treated pine. Still, I kind of miss the character you get with old barn wood... guess you can’t have it all.

That’s a fair point about the patina - thermally modified ash just doesn’t have that same “lived-in” vibe as reclaimed wood. I get the appeal of barn boards, especially when you want a deck to feel like it’s always been part of the landscape. But honestly, I’m always a bit wary of reclaimed lumber for outdoor use unless you really know its history. Sometimes you get hidden rot or old finishes that don’t play nice with new sealers.

“On the plus side, it’s held up through two winters without a hint of rot or warping, which is more than I can say for my neighbor’s pressure-treated pine.”

That durability is hard to argue with. From a design perspective, I’d rather have something that stays solid and low-maintenance, even if it means sacrificing a bit of character. Have you looked into any finishes or stains that might help fake that aged look on thermally modified wood? I’ve seen some decent results with tinted oils, though it’s never quite the same as the real deal. Curious if anyone’s found a sweet spot between sustainability, longevity, and that weathered aesthetic...

I totally get where you’re coming from on the reclaimed wood - there’s always that risk of “surprise” issues down the line. I’ve been eyeing thermally modified options for the same reasons you mentioned:

“it’s held up through two winters without a hint of rot or warping...”

I’ve tried a couple of those weathered-look stains on scrap pieces, but honestly, it never quite nails that authentic patina. Still, if it means less maintenance and more peace of mind, I’ll take it. Have to admit, sometimes function just wins out over form for me.

“it’s held up through two winters without a hint of rot or warping...”

That’s been my experience too. I did a deck with thermally modified ash about three years back - still looks solid, no cupping or weird splits. Reclaimed wood’s cool in theory, but you never really know what you’re getting until it’s too late. I’ve tried those “weathered” stains as well... always ends up looking a bit forced to me. At the end of the day, I’ll take less hassle over perfect aesthetics.

I get what you mean about reclaimed wood - had a buddy who went that route and ended up fighting hidden nails and weird soft spots for months. Thermally modified stuff just seems to take the guesswork out. I’m not super picky about the “perfect” weathered look either. Honestly, I’d rather spend my weekends on the deck than fixing it up every season. Sometimes the low-maintenance option is just worth it, even if it’s not the trendiest.