Healthy aternatives
Cedar: untreated and a wood that is easy to find. There are different varieties (red, white, etc.) which will be more or less adapted to your budget.
Composite (recycled plastic) boards: easy to maintain and very durable because they are water-resistant. However, they should not be used for the structure of the terrace.
Hemlock: strong and durable wood. By combining cedar and hemlock, you will have a durable and ecological terrace.
Tips
Prefer natural wood to treated wood. Its environmental impact is lower and it is a more durable wood.
Avoid using tropical woods; their use contributes to massive deforestation.
In Canada, you will find a wide variety of local woods.
For more advice on building or landscaping your deck or balcony, visit the eco home site.
Type
Ebony
Coatings
Brand
North On Sixty
SafeCoat
Details
https://www.northonsixty.com/kebony
Petrified soft wood for outdoor decks and trails
https://www.quantumchemical.com/safecoat-products
All low voc products.
Note:
Most structures for outdoor construction are made from Pressure Treated Wood (PTW). The brand MicroPro MCA is the one that has the least leaching of preservative chemicals.
See the section on “Wood” for different materials to use as walking surfaces.