Rough Sawn Timber for Outdoor Use: When an Untreated Finish Makes Sense in Landscaping

If you love the rugged-chic look in landscaping, rough-sawn timber will be right up your street. This is timber in its most natural state (after debarking); in all of its unpolished and imperfect glory, with none of the sleek finishes for which contemporary timber landscaping is known.

Sounds like a style to suit your aesthetic? Learn more in this guide about rough-sawn timber and when it makes sense in landscaping.

What is Rough Sawn Timber?

Rough-sawn timber is exactly what it sounds like – timber which has come straight from the sawmill with minimal processing. It has not been planed or sanded smooth, leaving it with a beautiful textured surface and visible saw marks for a rougher, more organic feel. You might also find that your boards, planks or sleepers can differ slightly in how flat they are, with subtle variations all adding to the natural charm.

Typically, this type of timber is untreated (though it is possible to treat if that is your preference). If you are using it for landscaping, therefore, we recommend a durable timber species for your rough-sawn products, for example Oak, Greenheart, or Ekki.

When to Use Untreated Rough Sawn Timber

You would be forgiven for thinking that untreated timber and outdoor use are not a match made in heaven. But there are actually plenty of reasons why they are.

Untreated timber can be a more eco-friendly option compared to treated timber, with no chemical finishes which could leak into your surrounding landscape. Untreated rough-sawn boards can also come with a lower price tag, making them perfect for budget-friendly projects.

In terms of outdoor use, as long as you opt for a timber which is suitable for external applications without treatment, you are good to go! This includes timber in direct contact with the ground or water, in which case opt for a Use Class 4 (ground contact) or Use Class 5 (water contact) timber species.

Rough Sawn Oak Sleepers in Landscaping

One of our top picks for using rough-sawn timber outside is Oak Sleepers.

Oak is always a reliable choice when looking for landscaping timbers and, being synonymous with Britain’s natural landscape, fits perfectly into our great outdoors. It also boasts impressive strength and durability, with a resistance to rot and insect attacks, making it a smart choice for outdoor applications.

Oak sleepers are large, thick boards of Oak which are ideal for outdoor use. With a rugged and real style popular amongst landscapers, they are a great choice for creating:

• Raised beds
• Pathway edges
• Retaining walls
• Steps

It is important to note that Oak sleepers come in different quality grades, and it is a great idea to have some understanding of the right grade you need for your application. Not sure where to start? Our EcoChoice team can help find the ideal Oak sleepers for your landscaping project.

Find Sustainable Rough Sawn Timber at EcoChoice

For rustic, natural outdoor landscapes, opt for untreated rough-sawn timber. At EcoChoice, we supply domestic and commercial projects across the UK with FSC® and PEFC-certified rough-sawn timber, and can help you find the timber species you seek.  Reach out to learn more or start an order today.