Types Of Outdoor Wood

Outdoor wood is a popular choice for everything from decks and fences to furniture and landscaping. But not all types of wood are created equal when it comes to weathering the elements. Some woods are naturally more durable and resistant to decay, while others require more maintenance to keep them looking their best. This article will explore the different types of outdoor wood commonly used and their characteristics, providing you with the information you need to make informed decisions for your outdoor projects.

Hardwoods

Hardwoods are generally denser and more durable than softwoods, making them a good choice for outdoor applications where strength and longevity are desired. They tend to be more resistant to decay, insects, and weathering. However, hardwoods are also typically more expensive than softwoods. Some popular hardwoods for outdoor use include:

Teak: Known for its beautiful golden color, durability, and natural oils that protect it from decay and insects. It's a premium choice for outdoor furniture and decking.
Ipe: An incredibly dense and durable hardwood, making it one of the most resistant woods to decay and insect damage. Its rich, dark color and strength make it a popular choice for decking and outdoor structures.
Cedar: Highly resistant to decay and insects due to its natural oil content. It has a distinctive aroma and is commonly used for fencing, decking, and outdoor cladding.
Mahogany: A beautiful, reddish-brown hardwood that is known for its durability and resistance to rot. Often used for outdoor furniture and trim.
Redwood: A softwood, but its natural resistance to decay and insects makes it a suitable choice for outdoor projects. Its reddish-brown color and distinctive aroma are appealing features.

Softwoods

Softwoods are generally less dense and durable than hardwoods, making them more susceptible to decay and insect infestation. However, they are often more readily available and less expensive. Some common softwoods used outdoors include:

Pine: A readily available and affordable softwood that is often used for decking and fencing. It requires regular maintenance to prevent decay and insect damage.
Fir: A strong and durable softwood often used for framing and decking. It's generally more resistant to decay than pine but still requires regular maintenance.
Spruce: A lightweight and affordable softwood that is often used for framing and decking. It's less durable than fir and pine and requires regular maintenance.

Treated Wood

Treated wood is wood that has been chemically treated to protect it from decay, insects, and moisture. This process extends the life of the wood and makes it a more durable choice for outdoor applications. Common types of treated wood include:

Pressure-treated lumber: Wood that has been treated with chemicals under pressure to penetrate the wood and protect it from decay and insects. It's a popular choice for decks, fences, and other outdoor structures.
Copper-azole treated lumber: A newer type of treated wood that uses copper-based preservatives to protect the wood from decay and insects. It's generally more environmentally friendly than traditional pressure-treated lumber.

Other Outdoor Wood Considerations

In addition to the type of wood you choose, there are other factors to consider when using wood outdoors:

Climate: The climate you live in will impact the durability of the wood. In hot, humid climates, decay and insect damage are more likely to occur. In cold climates, wood can be susceptible to frost heave and cracking.
Maintenance: All outdoor wood requires some level of maintenance to keep it looking its best. This may include cleaning, sealing, staining, and occasionally replacing damaged wood.
Sustainability: If you're concerned about environmental impact, consider choosing sustainably harvested wood. Look for certifications like FSC (Forest Stewardship Council) or SFI (Sustainable Forestry Initiative).

By understanding the different types of outdoor wood, their characteristics, and the factors that influence their durability, you can make informed decisions that will ensure the longevity of your outdoor projects and create a beautiful, functional outdoor space.