subject: What's The Best Wood To Build A Storage Shed? [print this page] What kind of wood should you use to build your garden shed plans? The three most prevalent woods used in the building of a garden shed or storage shed are pine, cedar and redwood. Each has its advantages and we'll have a look at each one in turn.
Pine - Pine should be effectively treated if it is to be used for your garden shed plans. In reality, pressure treated southern pine can last a century, even posts that are sunk into damp soil. Untreated or poorly treated pine will rot speedily so ensure the treating is certified and has a stamp or label from the AWPB, the American Wood Preservers Bureau. Wood without this mark is most likely to require repair or replacement in a short time. The most important benefit of pine is its low price. For a lot of people, the expense savings justifies the possible hazard to the environment caused by the various chemicals utilized to treat the wood. Pine must be stained or painted to shield it from sun and rain.
Cedar - The heartwood of Alaska cedar and western red cedar are incredibly resistant to rot and damage from insects. Be mindful that the sapwood, that is white in color, will not have the exact same degree of resistance as the heartwood of old growth forest. Old growth heartwood cedar looks very good and will last a very long time. It will fee more than pine, however, and just as the name implies, old growth means it's going to take longer for the forest to replace the tree employed to create your shed than quicker growing pine. Cedar will withstand weathering without having to be painted or stained, but if it is left unstained it is going to fade in coloring when exposed to sun. The effect is purely visual and the choice to stain or not can be a matter of taste.
Redwood - Redwood is an outstanding choice for any shed due to the fact it's naturally resistant to rot and pests like cedar. Furthermore, it'll not warp, split or cup like other soft woods if it gets wet. Also like cedar, it really is only the heartwood which is resistant to weathering and insect pests. The sapwood will rot as rapidly as untreated pine. Redwood occurs in a wide range of grades so be mindful of what you are acquiring. There is a clear grade named Heart B which is all heartwood but permits a restricted quantity of knots or blemishes per board. It will endure over time and also the knots and blemishes give it a character that some folks like. It isn't required to defend redwood with staining, but staining will maintain its coloring.
Which kind of wood you use in your garden shed plans will be dependent on your price range, the appearance you would like, and how you really feel about cutting old growth trees. Pressure treated pine will perform just fine on a budget. Cedar and redwood will run more but will involve much less maintenance in coming years. Whichever you opt for, be positive to obtain a grade of wood that will resist weather and insects. The wood you use to build your garden shed plans is as essential as the plans you opt for.
