Top Timber for Your Outdoor Project

Durable, Weather-Resistant Options for Every Build

When it comes to outdoor building projects, the timber you choose will determine the structural integrity of the final result. The right outdoor timber will provide durability, weather resistance, and long-lasting strength, while also delivering the look your clients want. Here are the best timber options for posts, decking, subframes, and other common outdoor timber applications.

Top Timber Posts for Outdoor Structures

Timber posts provide support and carry the load of outdoor structures such as pergolas, alfresco and subframes. That’s why selecting the right timber is essential.

• Treated pine is one of the most popular choices due to its affordability and wide availability. Any treated pine posts that are in direct contact with the ground should be H4 and above. It is also common practice in scenarios such as pergolas and alfresco areas to use stirrup posts or bolt downs to keep timber posts from having direct contact with the ground. This offers additional protection and a longer-lasting product
• Hardwood timber species offer natural durability and strength, making them ideal for projects that need to stand the test of time. Hardwood posts such as Merbau provides natural strength, durability and is visually appealing. They are bushfire-resistant and termite-resistant, offering long-term structural support
• Cypress posts are commonly used for fencing, verandahs and pergolas due to their high strength, durability and resistance to termites and the elements
• Laminated or engineered posts are designed for stability and reduced warping compared to solid timber. They are perfect for retaining, decking and house stumps and come in H4 and H5 treated for in-ground external construction. They are also straight and the ideal alternative to steel.

Note: For pine posts in direct ground contact, always opt for H4 or H5 treated pine. This ensures resistance to moisture, rot, and termites, extending the life of your structure.

Best Timber for Decking Subframes

The decking subframe or subdeck needs to be strong and durable to withstand the weight, wear and tear of an outdoor deck. As a result, using the right outdoor timber will offer a lasting structure.

• H3 treated pine or H4 treated pine is a cost-effective and easy-to-use option for a subframe. Due to pine’s lightweight and workability, it is the go-to for subdeck frames
• H4 and H5 treated pine posts are suitable for in-ground applications for greater protection and durability.

When building decking subframes, also consider ventilation and the local climate to prevent failure of the structure.

Outdoor Timber Decking

Decking boards face constant exposure to weather and heavy foot traffic, so timber species durability class and strength, in addition to visual appearance matter.

• Merbau decking is a durable and popular choice, due to its rich colour and resistance to termites and decay
• Spotted gum decking is a tough Australian native timber with a unique spotted appearance. It is a durable, resilient and very dense hardwood decking
• Blackbutt timber decking is a native hardwood with an attractive colour. It has a class 1 durability with natural resistance to termites and bushfire
• Treated pine decking boards are the most budget-friendly option and can be stained or painted to suit the desired outcome.

These are some examples, yet each timber species varies in cost, longevity and appearance, giving you flexibility depending on budget and visual preference.

Bowens Range of Outdoor Timber

The right outdoor timber choice ensures your outdoor projects are long-lasting and look great for years to come.

For more information on outdoor timbers, read our blog, ‘Importance of Using Treated Timber in Outdoor Projects’, for more detailed information about treated timber and installation tips.

For expert advice and a full range of outdoor timber options, shop online or visit one of our conveniently located stores today.