Choosing the Right Components for Your Outdoor Projects
Building functional, durable outdoor structures like decks, pergolas and sheds requires using the right materials. The components exposed to the elements day after day must stand up to rain, sun, snow, and seasonal temperature swings.
Selecting Appropriate Lumber
The framing and surface boards are critical structural elements. For decking, redwood, cedar, pressure-treated pine, and tropical hardwoods have natural weather resistance. Choose knot-free, straight boards without cupping, twisting or checks. Avoid lumber with excess knots, which create weak points more vulnerable to rot and insect damage. Hardwoods like Ipe are extremely durable but require pre-drilling to prevent cracking and splintering when fastening.
For structural framing, pressure-treated lumber is inexpensive and handles moisture well. Look for the PT stamp and end tags noting the exact preservative chemical used, either alkaline copper quaternary (ACQ) or micronized copper quaternary (MCQ). Verify the treatment meets standards for your projected use. Outdoor wood glues and protective end caps deter rot at cut points. Naturally decay-resistant cedar and redwood are pricier but long-lasting options. Redwood contains tannins that resist insect damage.
Picking Reliable Hardware
The nails, screws, hinges, joist hangers and brackets used outdoors must resist corrosion. Hot-dipped galvanized and stainless steel hardware is recommended for coastal …