The pandemic has made work from home a norm for many employees. At present, the setup saves them time from having to prep for the office and the long commute. Employees get into new hobbies, including creating DIY projects, as they have more time on their hands. If you are one of these individuals who grew interested in building things, how about working on your garden next?
You can make different things for your garden, such as fences, raised beds, sheds, and benches. Wood is one of the most important materials you’ll use for this project. Choosing the right wood for your garden can make a difference in the longevity of the furniture you will build. Plus, it could also affect the aesthetics. Here are some tips to consider when selecting wood for your garden project.
Choose a durable wood
The grains of the wood help determine its quality and durability. Woods with higher grains are better options for any garden project as they are sturdier and last longer. Check if they have circular or straight grains. Go for the latter as they have superior quality, so you will get your money’s worth.
Consider the cost
The cheaper options are not always the right choice, but the same goes for expensive ones. A high price tag does not automatically equate to excellent quality. You want to find top-notch materials that are within your budget. So, look around, and compare your options. Consider the various factors we listed, including the price. A more convenient way to do this is by visiting trusted sites like www.greenbarntimbers.co.uk where You can find woods you can use for your garden projects without travelling and visiting the store. Some are even on discount, so if you’re lucky, you can take advantage of the savings.
Go for highly resistant woods
Not all woods are the same; some are more resistant to weather and insect infestation. A highly resistant wood will not quickly rot or decay, thus lasting longer. This characteristic makes them an excellent option for your garden project, especially if there is maximum exposure to changing weather. Examples of highly resistant wood are the following:
- Black walnut
- Ipe
- Cedar
- Iroko
- Idigbo
- European oak
On the other hand, you can go with moderately resistant ones for projects that do not get much exposure. Some examples are:
- Meranti
- Larch
- Douglas fir
- Sapele
Highly resistant woods are still not wholly invincible from decay. Prolonged exposure to the elements can still cause them to rot in the long run. So, you may want to treat them with UV protection to protect them from the sun. Also, keep them dry to prevent moisture from penetrating.
Be careful with pressure-treated wood
Pressure-treated wood undergoes a process where chemicals are used to make it sturdier and less at risk of decay. There are now options less toxic than the others, but it’s still best not to use them, as they could negatively affect the plants that get in contact with them.
Do not skip the wood quality so that your garden project lasts longer. Proper maintenance is also essential to prevent decay.
