Preserve the work you put into building a pergola by choosing lumber that will last. Whether you’re building a full patio cover or want a standalone sun shade, here’s the type of wood materials you’ll want to consider to build a strong fixture.
Douglas Fir
Based on strength alone, Douglas Fir is recommended when building a pergola, regardless of the type of outdoor building material used for the home.
It’s the strongest lumber J&W carries and is available in rough sawn for patio covers, which is usually available in larger dimensions; whereas big box lumber stores typically only carry smooth boards.
Douglas Fir can be stained or painted to match your chosen aesthetic. If painting, prime the wood first and use an acrylic paint to make it last longer.
When staining, choose an oil-based stain to protect the wood from the inside out and restain the pergola every one or two years to keep it looking fresh.
Redwood
Native to California and environmentally sustainable, heartwood is extremely resistant to UV rays, pests, and decay. It’s also naturally resistant to warping and splitting, compared to many other woods, and can be preserved with an oil-based stain like Penofin and or PPG.
Though redwood can be painted, most homeowners let its natural beauty shine through. The rich, deep color pairs well with Mediterranean style homes but also has a classic appeal that will complement any home’s exterior.
Redwood is available at J&W Lumber in both rough and smooth textures, as well as several sizes, to customize your pergola project.
Western Red Cedar
Western red cedar has natural knots and characteristics, such as variations of light and dark streaks in the wood, that deliver a beautiful, rustic way to build any outdoor structure.
This lumber has the most tannins, so it’s most impervious to rot, bugs, and UV damage, and it’s available in rough sawn.
Lumber for Soffits
When building a soffit, an exposed pergola ceiling, there are several choices that may differ from the lumber used for the pergola itself.
Hemlock or clear cedar aligns well with a modern aesthetic, while using cedar with knots can provide a rustic appeal. Other durable soffit materials include:
- Metal roofing
- Composite tongue-and-groove and cladding that’s free of knots
- 1×6 Borneo Mahogany, a hardwood soffit option that’s significantly less expensive than IPE, another hardwood
- 1×4, 1×6, and 1×8 rougher-headed Douglas Fir
J&W Lumber also carries plywood. With this range of materials to choose from, your pergola can be customized to fit your space and style without compromising the structural integrity.
Choosing a Lumber That Lasts
There are several lumber options available, all in various sizes and textures, to build your ideal structure and make it last.
Our friendly representatives can help you make a decision based on your project needs or point you in the right direction if you already have a plan for your pergola.
Stop by your local lumberyard to see everything we have in stock or talk to us if you need to special order materials.