The true cost of timber maintenance

When choosing materials for a building project – be it cladding, decking, fencing or marine works – timber is often at the top of the list. It is a staple in construction, renowned for its strength and versatility, while bringing plenty of aesthetic charm to your project. But one question tends to shape buying decisions more than any other: what will it cost to maintain over time?

There is a bigger picture than just financial cost here. This is about time, labour and long-term performance. In this guide, get to grips with just how much timber will cost you to maintain.

Timber maintenance costs over the lifetime of a project

Timber should not be judged only by its purchase price. A cheaper, untreated or low-durability species may save you money at the start, but those savings can quickly disappear if the timber needs frequent upkeep. Consider also that an early replacement may end up costing you far more than a long-lasting timber species. In terms of how much you are likely to pay, we highly recommend focusing on a suitable timber species to lower the lifetime cost.

To learn more, read our blog on the return on investment (ROI) of softwoods vs hardwoods.

How Much Does Timber Maintenance Cost?

Timber maintenance costs vary widely depending on the products you use and whether you choose to do the work yourself. Oils and stains, for instance, can cost anywhere from £5 to £90+, with the potential for multiple tins if you have a large timber construction. Hiring professionals naturally increases the cost with contractors charging anywhere from around £100 to thousands, depending on the issue. Dry rot, for instance, can cost over £4,000 to fix in severe cases.

Again, your best bet here is to focus on finding a suitable, durable timber at the start of your project. What you spend now could save you thousands in the future.

The Investment of Time

Whether you are building for a homeowner or a business, labour is often the hidden maintenance cost. Applying protective coatings, sanding surfaces and cleaning away mould all add up, and not just financially! When used outside, timber species with lower durability may require more frequent treatment, sometimes annually, depending on exposure and coating system.

This is particularly important when you are a business. Every extra maintenance task means more staff time, the need to purchase equipment, and potential downtime on-site while you clean up your timber.

Finding a Low-Maintenance Timber

Whether you are concerned about time, labour or money, your best bet for cutting down on the cost of timber maintenance is to opt for a low-maintenance species. These are the tough, durable timbers which can withstand weathering and exterior use with ease, meaning that you do not have to worry about sanding and staining. Some of our favourites include:

• Ipe
• Ekki
• Greenheart
• Oak (when correctly graded, detailed and specified for the application)
• Cumaru
• Opepe

While no timber is entirely maintenance-free, these species typically require significantly less upkeep when correctly specified and detailed. You can also take a peek at our thermo-modified timber, ThermoWood, which enhances durability and dimensional stability, reducing maintenance requirements in suitable above-ground applications.

Find Low-Maintenance, Durable Timber Species

Looking for a low-maintenance timber species? We are here to help. From European natives to tropical hardwoods, we can supply your project with a durable, sustainably sourced timber which will keep upkeep needs to a minimum.

To find a durable timber species, chat with our team today