Choosing the right decking for your outdoor area can transform the entire atmosphere. Two popular finishes—rustic and smooth—each offer their own aesthetic and functional advantages.
By using 100% reclaimed Borneo ironwood, both options deliver sustainability and beauty, but the choice between the two depends on the look and feel you want to create.
Rustic Decking: Embracing Nature’s Imperfections
Rustic decking celebrates the natural textures and imperfections of wood. As seen in the image above, the surface has a weathered, organic feel that highlights the unique grain patterns and character of reclaimed timber. This finish is perfect for those who love the charm of aged, lived-in wood, where every knot and groove tells a story.
By using reclaimed Borneo ironwood, known locally as Ulin, this rustic finish is more than just aesthetically pleasing—it's built to last. Ulin is one of the toughest woods available, with a dense and compact structure that makes it incredibly durable. Historically used by the indigenous Dayak communities of Kalimantan in traditional house construction, Ulin has also been used for bridges, roads, and jetties due to its resistance to rot, decay, termites, and weathering. Ulin trees, which can live for over a thousand years, are endemic to Borneo, and Kaltimber exclusively sources this wood from disused structures such as old warehouses and bridges, ensuring that each piece of decking carries a part of this heritage.
Rustic decking is ideal for outdoor spaces where nature’s raw beauty should be the focal point. It pairs perfectly with natural landscaping, adding a sense of warmth and authenticity to gardens, patios, and eco-lodges. Plus, the slightly rough texture of rustic decking tends to mask wear and tear, making it an excellent choice for high-traffic areas exposed to the elements.
Best for:
- Eco-conscious designs that highlight natural materials
- High-traffic outdoor areas where wear and tear are common
- Spaces that emphasize texture, character, and connection to nature
Smooth Decking: Sleek, Polished, and Modern
For those who prefer a more polished and refined look, smooth decking offers a sleek alternative. The image above showcases its flawless surface, which enhances the rich, natural hues of Ulin wood. This finish is perfect for modern, minimalist designs where clean lines and uniformity create a sophisticated atmosphere.
Smooth decking made from reclaimed Ulin is not only visually striking but also extremely practical. Thanks to Ulin's compact grain and natural resistance to decay, smooth decking performs exceptionally well in outdoor environments. Its soft, splinter-free finish is comfortable underfoot, making it an excellent choice for areas where people might walk barefoot, such as around pools or on patios.
While smooth decking looks high-end and luxurious, it doesn't sacrifice durability. Ulin's Class 1 natural durability rating, both above and in-ground, ensures that this wood will stand the test of time. Whether you’re looking to create a sleek rooftop terrace or a contemporary deck for an upscale resort, smooth decking offers a perfect blend of beauty and longevity.
Best for:
- Contemporary and minimalist designs
- Comfort-focused areas like pool decks and patios
- Spaces where a clean, polished appearance is key
The Power of Borneo Ironwood (Ulin)
Both rustic and smooth decking at Kaltimber is crafted from reclaimed Borneo ironwood, or Ulin, one of the most durable hardwoods in the world. Ulin's incredibly slow growth rate—less than 0.5mm per year—results in a highly compact timber with exceptional resilience. Known for its natural resistance to rot, decay, termites, and extreme weather conditions, Ulin is the wood of choice for outdoor applications where longevity is essential.
Historically prized by the indigenous Dayak people of Borneo for constructing traditional homes, Ulin's legacy lives on through its use in modern decking. Kaltimber sources Ulin exclusively from disused structures, such as old houses, warehouses, bridges, and jetties across Kalimantan. This 100% reclaimed material not only offers an environmentally friendly solution but also ensures that your decking is infused with history and cultural significance.
Which Decking is Right for You?
Ultimately, the choice between rustic and smooth decking comes down to the atmosphere you want to create. If you value texture, character, and a natural, weathered look, rustic decking is the way to go. Its raw beauty and ability to hide wear make it perfect for natural, high-traffic spaces. On the other hand, if you prefer a sleek, modern appearance with a smooth, comfortable feel, smooth decking is ideal for more contemporary or luxurious environments.
No matter which option you choose, both finishes are crafted from Kaltimber’s 100% reclaimed Ulin wood, offering a sustainable, long-lasting, and beautiful solution for your outdoor spaces.