Build Shed Plans: Use the Right Wood

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  • Author Robert Sessions
  • Published June 19, 2010
  • Word count 593

Are you planning to build a shed this year? Building a shed with the wrong type of wood can been responsible for early rot or termite damage. Discover which types of wood you should use to build a garden shed to conserve money and steer clear of troubles later.

What variety of wood should you use for your garden shed plans? The three most common woods utilized in the building of a garden shed or storage shed are pine, cedar and redwood. Each one has its advantages and we'll assess each in turn.

Pine - Pine should be correctly treated if it's to be employed for your garden shed plans. In truth, pressure treated southern pine can last a hundred years, even posts that are sunk into wet soil. Untreated or poorly treated pine will rot easily so make certain the treating is certified with a stamp or label from the AWPB, the American Wood Preservers Bureau. Wood not having this mark is most likely to require repair or replacement in relatively few years. The greatest advantage of pine is its low cost. For many people, the price savings justifies the potential hazard to the environment triggered by the various chemicals utilized to treat the wood. Pine has to be stained or painted to protect it from the elements.

Cedar - The heartwood of western red cedar and Alaska cedar are very resistant to decay and damage from insects. Be mindful that the sapwood, that is light grey to white in color, does not have the exact same degree of resistance as the heartwood of old growth trees. Old growth heartwood cedar looks very good and will last for years and years. It'll fee more than pine, however, and as the name implies, old growth signifies it'll take longer for the forest to replace the tree utilized to create your shed than more quickly growing pine. Cedar will withstand weathering with no need of being stained or painted, but if kept unpainted it's going to fade in color when exposed to sun. The effect is purely cosmetic and the decision to stain or not can be a matter of taste.

Redwood - Redwood is definitely an exceptional selection for any shed because it truly is naturally resistant to rot and insect pests like cedar. Moreover, it will not warp, split or cup like other soft woods when exposed to weather. Also like cedar, it is only the heartwood that's resistant to weathering and bugs. The sapwood will rot as rapidly as untreated pine. Redwood can be bought in a variety of grades so be aware of what you're obtaining. There is a clear grade named Heart B which is all heartwood but permits a limited amount of knots or blemishes per board. It is going to stand up over time and the knots and blemishes give it a look that some folks like. It is not important to shield redwood with staining, but staining will preserve its color.

Which kind of wood you use in your garden shed plans will vary depending on your price range, the look you need, and how you really feel about cutting old growth trees. Pressure treated pine will deliver the results just fine on a budget. Cedar and redwood will be more expensive but will require much less maintenance in coming years. Whichever you choose, be sure to obtain a grade of wood that will resist weather and pests. The wood you use to build your garden shed plans is as significant as the plans you pick.

To get great, easy to follow step-by-step garden shed plans, click Build a Shed You can also watch the nine minute video at My Shed Plans and learn all you need to know about building a shed you can be proud of.

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