Opepe Hardwood Decking

Opepe is a dense tropical hardwood built to outlast the weather, naturally resistant to rot, insects and heavy foot traffic without the need for pressure treatment. Responsibly sourced and fully reversible, it works for garden decks, raised platforms, and areas around water, giving you a grooved surface for extra grip or a clean, smooth finish from the same board.

Opepe Hardwood Decking FAQs

What is Opepe hardwood?

Opepe, also known as Bilinga or Kusia, is a durable tropical hardwood from West and Central Africa with a warm orange-brown to golden colour. It is naturally dense and highly resistant to fungi, insects and moisture, which is why it is used for everything from decking to marine and bridge construction.

What are the benefits of hardwood decking over softwood?

Hardwood decking like Opepe is far denser than treated softwood, giving it a longer lifespan, better resistance to wear and a premium finish that ages well. Softwood is lighter, cheaper and easier to cut, but hardwood is the better choice for a deck that needs to last and take heavy use.

How long does Opepe decking last?

Opepe is one of the most durable decking timbers available and, installed correctly with good drainage and airflow, can last for several decades. Its natural resistance to rot and insect attack means it does not rely on chemical treatment to achieve that lifespan.

Is Opepe decking sustainably sourced?

Yes. Our Opepe decking is FSC® certified, meaning it comes from responsibly managed forests that meet strict environmental and social standards.

What is the difference between the smooth and grooved sides?

Each Opepe board is reversible. The grooved, castellated side offers extra grip underfoot and a traditional decking look, while the smooth side gives a cleaner, more contemporary finish. You choose which face to lay uppermost when you install it.

Why do I need stainless steel screws for Opepe decking?

Opepe contains natural tannins that can react with ordinary steel fixings, causing corrosion and dark staining around the screw heads. Stainless steel decking screws avoid this, keeping the fixings secure and the boards looking clean over time. Pre-drilling is also recommended, as the timber is very dense.

Does Opepe decking need treating or oiling?

Opepe does not need preservative treatment to survive outdoors, as it is naturally durable. Left untreated it will silver to an attractive grey over time. If you prefer to keep the original golden-brown colour, a hardwood decking oil applied periodically will maintain it.

Can Opepe decking be used near pools or water features?

Yes. Opepe is exceptionally resistant to moisture and is used in marine and waterside construction, so it copes well with damp and splash-prone areas. As with any deck, leaving small gaps between boards for drainage and airflow will help it perform at its best.

What do I need to install an Opepe deck?

You will need a solid, level sub-frame of treated joists, stainless steel decking screws, and ideally joist protection tape to extend the life of the frame. Space the joists to suit your board thickness and leave a small gap between boards for drainage and natural movement.

Can I collect Opepe decking, or do you deliver?

Both. Collect from our yard in Backwell, Bristol, or have your order delivered on our own ULEZ-compliant fleet across the South West, usually within 7 to 10 working days. You are also welcome to come to the yard in person to see our new Opepe display deck before you buy.