How to make your exterior timber last a lifetime

From decking to fencing, timber is an excellent material choice for your exterior projects. But, as with most materials, it can experience a little wear and tear over the years when used outside, making maintenance essential. To help give you a headstart, we have put together our top tips to help exterior timber last a lifetime.

Can Exterior Timber Last a Lifetime?

Yes, timber can absolutely last a lifetime – and beyond! In the UK, the oldest timber-framed facade (St. Bartholomews Gatehouse) was built in 1123, making it around 900 years old. The timber is still very much visible from outside and looks to be in good condition, proving just how long our favourite sustainable building material can last when well looked after.

Start By Choosing the Right Timber Species

Any exterior timber product needs to be made using the right timber species. For outdoor use, you need timber classified as Use Class of 3, 4, or 5 and a durability rating of 3, 2 or 1. These have a great resistance to outdoor threats, including rot and insect infestation, making them much more likely to stand the test of time.

Some great timber species for outdoor use which come with the EcoChoice stamp of approval include:

• Greenheart
• Ekki
• Iroko
• Cloeziana
• Silverluxe (perfect for eco-friendly cladding projects!)

You can also opt for a less durable timber species which has been treated to a Use Class 3 or above. ThermoWood, for example, takes less durable timber and subjects it to heat and pressure, creating a non-toxic, strong wood which does not need to be re-treated every year.

Watch Out For Damage

Timber which lasts a lifetime does not mean it will go through life unscathed. The oldest timber buildings may have rot and pests over time, but the key factor in ensuring their durability is spotting these issues and fixing them.

Keep an eye out for signs of damage by looking for:

• Cracking or splitting
• Warping or bowing
• Discoloration or dark spots
• Surface mould or mildew
• Soft or spongy areas
• Visible insect damage (e.g., boreholes, frass)
• Fungal growth

If you spot issues, you can either look into DIY repairs, call in a specialist, or reach out to the EcoChoice team for some expert timber knowledge.

Maintain Your Timber

Even when your timber appears to be in tip-top shape, it is still a good idea to carry out maintenance. This can include cleaning your timber products a few times a year, removing any dirt, mildew and leaves with a soft-bristled brush.

Exterior timber also benefits from natural preservative treatments every year or so (depending on how old the wood is and the wear and tear it has suffered). A non-toxic stain, oil or varnish is a great way to freshen up your timber and protect it from damage.

Take a look at the surroundings, too. Aside from durability class 1 timbers, your wood will not like being in a lot of still water, so ensure adequate drainage in the area. Cut back any overhanging foliage, and keep your timber safe from pests, fungus and rot for years to come.

Find FSC-Certified Exterior Timber at EcoChoice

If you are looking for exterior timber products which will last a lifetime, look no further than EcoChoice. With a wide range of responsibly sourced, durable timber species, we have exactly what you need.

Get in touch with us today and we will match your project requirements to the perfect timber.