When planning an outdoor project such as a deck, fence, or garden structure, you can’t just choose any material. The wrong wood will crack, warp, or be destroyed by pests, requiring extensive maintenance just to stay standing. You need lumber that will stand up to demanding outdoor conditions. Jaeger Lumber provides a wide range of building products near you in New Jersey. Here, we explore our outdoor lumber options to help you choose the right type for your project.
Key Takeaways
- Outdoor lumber must resist moisture, dryness, freeze-thaw cycles, fungi, and insects to stay reliable over the years.
- Common types of outdoor lumber include cedar and naturally resistant woods, pressure-treated lumber, and composite.
- When choosing wood for your outdoor project, weigh your priorities between durability and aesthetics to choose the best lumber.
- Jaeger Lumber provides a wide range of lumber products near you in New Jersey, including cedar and hardwoods.
Why Does Outdoor Lumber Selection Matter?
Building outdoors comes with unique challenges. Unlike indoor projects, which are sheltered from the elements, your deck or fence must withstand full exposure. The following threats can cause serious damage to structures that aren’t built to resist them:
- Precipitation
- Humidity
- Dry weather
- Freeze-thaw cycles
- Mold and mildew
- Sun exposure
- Insects
No wood is completely immune. Certain woods, however, resist decay better than others. Selecting the right building material is among the most important choices you can make for outdoor construction. Materials make the difference between a project that falls apart within a few years and one that stands strong for decades of enjoyment.
What Are Common Outdoor Lumber Options?
When getting lumber for outdoor construction, look for types that resist hazards like pests, fungi, and moisture. There are a few popular options to consider, ranging from naturally resistant woods to advanced synthetic alternatives:
Cedar and Resistant Woods
Certain species of trees produce wood that is naturally more resistant to the elements than others. These woods have organic preservatives in the heartwood that discourage insects and fungi. Cedar is the most common type of naturally resistant wood, followed by redwood and cypress. High-end options include hardwoods, such as Ipe, teak, and mahogany, which offer stunning looks at a higher price.
Pressure-Treated Lumber
Pressure-treated lumber is wood that has been treated with chemical preservatives to enhance its durability. The wood is placed in a high-pressure chamber, which forces the preservatives deep into the wood fibers. This ensures that the preservatives penetrate all the way to its core. Pressure-treated lumber can still crack and warp, but it doesn’t rot and is unappetizing to insects.
Composite and Engineered Alternatives
Finally, you can invest in wood/plastic composites. These semi-synthetic boards are made from a blend of thermoplastic resin and wood fiber. The plastic makes them completely rot- and insect-proof, and the flexible material won’t splinter. Composite is still prone to warping, however, and its high-density composition requires special fasteners. It’s also more expensive than other options.
Matching Lumber to the Project
Of the above options, choosing the best is a balance between durability and aesthetics. Consider your project and priorities. Here are suggestions for common outdoor structure types:
- Decking: For the deck boards and railing, consider composite or a high-quality wood like Ipe or mahogany. For the framing, go with ground-contact treated lumber.
- Fencing: Ground-contact treated lumber is your most durable option for fence posts. The fencing itself can be natural wood or pressure-treated lumber for budget builds.
- Garden: Pressure-treated wood or natural cedar are popular choices for garden structures, such as planter boxes, raised garden beds, pathways, and barriers.
- Trim: Decorative trim can be made from cedar or pressure-treated wood if you plan on painting. If you want natural woodgrain, consider a high-end wood like Ipe or mahogany.
In general, hidden structures that come into contact with the ground call for budget-friendly lumber that emphasizes resistance over appearance. Highly visible applications, meanwhile, may be worth investing in attractive materials.
Get Outdoor Lumber Near You in NJ
With the right outdoor lumber, you can create a beautiful and low-maintenance structure that lasts for years. Start browsing your options today at Jaeger Lumber. We supply building materials across the state of New Jersey, with deliveries right to your home or jobsite so you can get straight to building. Contact us today to learn more about our selection or to get advice on your next project.
Outdoor Lumber FAQs
Is pressure-treated lumber good for decks and fences?
Pressure-treated lumber is a durable, budget-friendly option for deck framing and fences. It isn’t as attractive as other wood options, so you may want to consider Ipe, teak, mahogany, or composite for the deck boards or decorative fences.
What is the difference between cedar and pressure-treated lumber?
Cedar is a type of wood that naturally resists pests. Pressure-treated lumber, meanwhile, is wood that has been treated with pressure and chemical preservatives to prevent pests.
How should outdoor lumber be stored before installation?
To keep outdoor lumber in good condition before installation, elevate it to allow airflow between the lumber and the ground. Cover the lumber to protect against precipitation, but make sure it stays well-ventilated.