Are you planning an outdoor renovation? If so, you may already be shopping for the perfect materials to use. Whether you’re building new decking for your outdoor entertainment area or you’ve decided it’s time to repair the old fence, timber is still a popular choice.
Homeowners rely on the expertise of the timber suppliers Melbourne locals use for all their building needs. Since a huge part of each project’s success depends on the quality of the materials used, it’s essential to have a professional’s input about the type of timber to use.
The Backbone of Many Home Projects
There are many reasons to use timber for everything from fences to flooring. Our timber experts have compiled a list of the most common reasons why timber should be on your short list of project materials.
1. Timber is Exceptionally Versatile
Timber is often the preferred choice for interior and exterior projects because it’s highly versatile. Different timber types can be used to create anything from structural beams to flooring and even boat building.
Locally sourced timber is also extensively used for furniture and a range of indoor decorations and accessories. Many gardeners also use timber to create raised bed gardens, fences, and walkways for their gardens and crop fields.
2. Environmentally Friendly
Another top reason to invest in timber is that it’s environmentally sustainable. Many biodegradable and renewable species used in projects around Australia are harvested from local plantations. Timber is not only greenhouse-friendly but also has a significantly low carbon footprint.
A little-known fact is that about half of the dry weight of a living tree is made up of carbon, which is stored in the tree for its lifetime. It’s retained in the tree during any manufacturing process.
When you opt to use sustainable timber, these can easily be recycled. In this process, no new trees need to be cut down. You can also easily reuse timber around your property. For instance, old flooring can be used to make fence posts or raised bed gardens.
3. Boasts Acoustic Properties
Some types of timber, such as Western Red Cedar, are well-known for it’s acoustic properties. This is because it can absorb echoes and sounds, which makes it an ideal choice for installations where proper acoustics are essential.
4. Can Withstand Extreme Conditions
Anyone who has built with timber before will be quick to tell you that using the right type can see you having a product that will survive many years. If you choose the right timber type for your environment and type of project, you can see it last through the harshest Australian climate.
This is essential to keep in mind when you’re building in high-humidity areas or those that are exposed to seawater. Typical examples of this would include building jetties, cladding on your roof, or even window frames and external doors. In some cases, specialised treatments can be applied to the timber to ensure longevity.
5. Can be an Affordable Option
Building materials can be very costly, especially if you require a large amount for an outdoor deck or indoor flooring. Fortunately, timber is available at a wide range of prices that can accommodate every budget.
Whether you prefer expensive hardwoods or your budget only allows for treated pine, you’ll easily find a viable option for any project type. Some of the more popular and durable options you can find at your local timber supplier include the following:
– American oak
– American walnut
– Blackbutt
– Ironbark
– Cypress
– Merbau
– Spotted gum
– Silvertop
6. Creates a Wonderful Aesthetic
No matter what aesthetic you’re aiming for in your space, you’ll easily be able to achieve it with timber. Using different types of timber will help you create a range of different looks. Since timber species come in various colours, the right timber species can create everything from a natural design to a modern, minimalistic décor.
7. Safe to Use
Timber is a non-toxic product and is generally safe to handle. Unlike some types of carpeting, timber contains no VOC, which means your family won’t be exposed to harmful fumes or toxins. No levels of toxicity also make timber a popular choice for flooring, where people suffer from asthma or other respiratory issues. Timber doesn’t trap dirt and bacteria, which also makes it easy to maintain.
If your timber needs to be treated (for outdoor applications), this can be done using environmentally-friendly solutions, which can be done long before you need to handle it. Since timber is a safe material, it’s a common choice for use in medical centres, aged care facilities, and hospitals.
Final Thoughts
With a wide range of timber choices to choose from, it’s easy to find the best quality timber for your project. Quality timber is not only non-toxic and environmentally friendly but also creates an aesthetic that blends in well with any décor and architectural design. Be sure to discuss your design needs with a timber expert before you make your first timber purchase.