Mike Holmes Shares A Clever Trick For Saving Money On Outdoor Wood Projects

If you've been thinking about which are the best types of wood to bring your DIY deck plans to life, then cedar and redwood will almost certainly be near the top of the list. They both contain oils and tannins that act as natural preservatives and also protect them from insect attack. Their color and grain can give them tremendous visual appeal, and they are sustainably forested in the U.S., so you're helping the environment too.

There's just one problem — cedar and redwood don't come cheap. If you've been looking at how much it costs to build a deck from scratch, the price of these beautiful woods is going to have a major impact. Fortunately, Mike Holmes shares a trick that will work on this and other outdoor projects and can save you a big chunk of money. He suggests building the supporting framework — those parts that are normally hidden anyway — out of more cost-effective PT (pressure-treated) lumber. That allows you to reserve your decorative lumber just for the areas that everyone can see.

For those that don't know, PT lumber is typically southern yellow pine, which is chosen because of its strength. It has been soaked under pressure in chemicals that make it resistant to fungus, decay, and insect attack. The drawbacks with PT lumber are that the color and grain aren't particularly inspiring, and the chemicals can leave it with a green tint. However, it is one of the most durable woods for an outdoor shed or deck. The major benefit of using PT lumber is that although prices can vary, it is a good deal cheaper than cedar or redwood.

You can build the frame of your deck using PT lumber, then use either cedar or redwood for the decking planks, fascia boards, and things like steps and guard rails. It's a solution that is durable and economical, and the finished job looks fabulous. The same trick can be used when you build a shed. Create the main structure from PT lumber and clad it with tongue and groove cedar or redwood boards. You could take it further if you're feeling creative, building an outdoor bar or seating area. In any situation that needs a strong, dependable support frame, you could use PT lumber and then hide it under a cedar or redwood shell. Everyone will compliment you on the rich hue and attractive appearance, while the only person who knows there's cheap lumber underneath is you.