2×6 Vs 5/4 Decking (What Should I Get?)
Thinking about building a deck and stuck between 2×6 and 5/4 decking boards?
You’re not alone. This is one of those questions that pops up a lot once you start pricing things out and digging into materials.
Both decking boards are super common, and both can work great, but they each come with their own set of pros, cons, and little quirks.
If you’re wondering which one makes more sense for your project, this 2×6 vs 5/4 decking board comparison guide breaks down everything you need to know.
#1 Thickness And Strength
Let’s start with the most obvious difference – thickness.
A 2×6 is thicker than a 5/4 board. Technically, a 2×6 measures about 1.5 inches thick, while a 5/4 board is usually around 1 inch thick.
That half-inch might not sound like much, but it actually makes a pretty big difference in strength and rigidity.
If you plan on having heavy furniture, hot tubs, or lots of people crowding your deck for backyard barbecues, 2x6s will give you a sturdier feel underfoot. You won’t get as much bounce or flex.
Some people love that solid, “this deck isn’t going anywhere” vibe.
5/4 boards are still strong, don’t worry. They just aren’t as beefy. They’re great for normal foot traffic and casual lounging, but you might notice a little more give under pressure.
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#2 Joist Spacing
Joist spacing and board thickness go hand in hand.
If you’re using 5/4 decking, you’re usually going to need joists spaced 16 inches apart (or even 12 inches if you’re using softer wood).
That’s because the thinner boards need more support.
On the other hand, 2×6 decking can often span joists spaced 24 inches apart without a problem. That’s fewer joists to install, which could save you time and money on framing.
So, if you’re starting from scratch and want to cut back on how much framing you’re doing, 2×6 might win this round.
#3 Weight And Handling
Here’s where the 5/4 boards win some points. They’re lighter.
If you’re doing the deck yourself, lighter boards are easier to carry, cut, and screw down. You’re less likely to get worn out halfway through the project, and it’s easier on your back and your tools.
2x6s, on the other hand, are heavier. They’re a little bulkier to manage. Carrying a pile of those up some stairs or across a yard can be a real workout.
It’s not a dealbreaker, but you’ll feel the difference by the third or fourth board if you’re building solo or working in the heat.
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#4 Cost
Ah yes, the big question: how much is this going to cost?
5/4 boards are usually cheaper than 2x6s. You pay less per board, and they’re more common in most big box stores. That means they’re often in stock and ready to go without a special order.
2×6 boards cost more. They use more wood, they’re heavier, and they’re often used in more demanding projects. It all adds up.
So if you’re looking for a clean, functional deck and you’re trying to keep your wallet happy, 5/4 is often the better pick. But don’t forget that 2×6 boards might save you some money on joists if you’re spacing them wider, so it can balance out depending on the project.
#5 Appearance And Style
Let’s be honest… the deck’s gotta look good too.
5/4 boards tend to have a sleeker, more finished appearance. They’re what you’ll often see on modern-looking decks or residential patios.
They just have that “clean and polished” vibe, especially when stained or painted.
2×6 boards feel a little chunkier.
It can give the deck a strong, almost rustic look – like it’s made to last decades. That extra thickness also creates deeper shadow lines between boards, which changes the visual feel of the whole deck.
Plus, wider boards (like a 2×6) mean fewer gaps between planks, which can give the deck a different aesthetic overall. Some people love that!
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#6 Durability
This comes down to what kind of wear and tear your deck will take.
2×6 boards are just more durable, plain and simple. They hold up better under heavy use, heavy furniture, and rough weather. They’re less likely to crack, warp, or split over time – especially if you keep them sealed and maintained.
5/4 boards will last, but they need a little more care. And over time, especially with a lot of sun or moisture, they can show signs of stress faster than thicker boards.
If your deck is going to be the main hangout spot with lots of traffic, a grill, maybe even a hot tub, go with the 2x6s. If it’s just a nice space for morning coffee and the occasional get-together, 5/4 will do the job just fine.
#7 Maintenance
No matter which you go with, you’ll need to do some upkeep.
Both types need to be sealed or stained to prevent rot and weather damage unless you go with composite (which is a whole different conversation). But 2×6 boards take longer to dry out after rain, and they’ll soak up more stain. That means they also take longer to seal.
On the plus side, because 2×6 is thicker, it can handle deeper sanding later down the road if the surface gets rough.
5/4 boards don’t take as much time to stain or seal, and they’re a little easier to replace or repair if needed. Maintenance is just a bit simpler overall.
Best Use Cases For Each
Still torn? Here’s a quick cheat sheet to help:
Go with 2×6 if you’re building:
- A dock or platform near water
- A deck that’ll have heavy furniture or a hot tub
- Something with joists spaced wider than 16”
- A long-term structure that needs to handle big loads
Go with 5/4 if you’re building:
- A typical backyard deck with joists 12–16” apart
- On a tighter budget
- Something lighter and easier to install solo
- A clean-looking residential deck with smooth edges
Bottom Line
So… 2×6 vs 5/4? There’s no single “best” choice.
It really comes down to what kind of deck you’re building, how it’ll be used, and what you’re comfortable spending (in money and sweat).
If you want a tank of a deck that’ll stand the test of time, 2×6 is probably your best bet. It’s tougher, thicker, and just plain stronger. But if you want something that’s easier to work with, still plenty sturdy, and easier on your wallet, 5/4 is a great call.
At the end of the day, both will give you a solid deck to enjoy. Pick the one that fits your space, your budget, and your style – and you’ll be good to go.
