🌱 rot resistant wood

Naturally resistant woods that are commercially available include black locust (Robinia pseudoacacia), teak (Tectona grandis), ipe (Tabebuia spp), California redwood (Sequoia sempervirens) and bald cypress (Taxodium distichum). These have the highest resistance to rot over time.

Ipe deserves special mention because there are so many available products that use this beautiful wood. Ipe is sourced from the tropical tree genus Tabebuia, also known as Trumpet Tree in South Florida. It is an extremely dense wood that weathers beautifully over time to a light silver-gray. Ipe has been in vogue in recent years, and many types certified by the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) are available.

Various woods, especially the tropical hardwoods, like teak and ipe, come in and go out of fashion in the building industry and can have a high potential for commercial exploitation. Use lumber that has been certified as sustainable by the FSC. Wood that is FSC certified will be clearly labeled with the FSC certification logo.

Additional woods with medium resistance to rot include western redcedar (Thuja plicata), Loblolly pine (Pinus taeda) and European larch (Larix decidua). The type of rot-resistant wood you decide to use will ultimately come down to cost, availability and desired style.