Discover the different wood species suited for outdoor use, their advantages, disadvantages and applications for your carpentry projects in Switzerland.
Part of the guide
Energy renovation
Energy renovation guide: CECB, insulation, subsidies.
Read the full guide
Outdoor carpentry covers a wide range of projects, all exposed to weather conditions and therefore requiring specific wood species.
Building terraces, whether from solid wood or composite decking, is a classic of outdoor carpentry. Wooden windows and cladding, which dress the façades of houses, provide additional insulation and a contemporary aesthetic. Wooden fences and gates mark out properties while adding a natural touch. The construction of pergolas, carports and garden sheds creates additional outdoor living spaces.
Finally, garden furniture such as tables, chairs and benches completes the outdoor layout by combining comfort and aesthetics. All these projects require specific know-how and the careful choice of wood species that can withstand the weather.
In Switzerland, renovating the woodwork of a chalet also keeps carpenters very busy.
Before looking at specific species, it is important to understand the concept of use class. This classification system, standardised in Europe (EN 335), defines the natural durability of wood against biological attacks (fungi, insects) depending on its exposure to moisture.
Five classes are defined, ranging from class 1 (very low risk, wood always dry) to class 5 (very high risk, wood in permanent contact with fresh water or the ground). For outdoor installations, classes 3, 4 and 5 are generally recommended.
Discover the best wood species to succeed with your outdoor projects.
A noble and robust wood, oak is highly valued for its durability and aesthetics. It is suitable for high-end projects such as exterior joinery, gates and garden furniture. A treatment is recommended to optimise its resistance to the weather.
This local and durable species is naturally resistant to the weather and does not require chemical treatment. Its warm appearance and reddish hue make it a popular choice for building a terrace, cladding or fence. Slight natural greying may appear over time.
Another local species, Douglas fir offers good natural resistance and an attractive pinkish hue. More economical than larch, it is also suitable for terraces, cladding and timber framing. A treatment is nevertheless recommended for prolonged exposure to moisture.
Extremely durable and resistant, robinia is ideal for outdoor installations subject to heavy stress, such as fence posts, terraces and garden sheds. Its rot-proof, very dense wood requires no treatment.
Exotic woods offer excellent resistance to the weather, insects and fungi. Their unique aesthetic and warm colours are highly prized for high-end terraces, cladding and garden furniture. It is crucial to favour certified wood from sustainably managed forests.
Native to South America, cumaru is a very dense and resistant wood, ideal for terraces, cladding and outdoor applications subject to heavy stress. Its reddish-brown colour darkens over time to take on a silver-grey tone.
Thermal treatment improves the durability and dimensional stability of wood, making it more resistant to the weather and to temperature variations. Different species can be thermally treated to protect the wood.
Pine (class 2-3) is an affordable species, but requires autoclave treatment for outdoor use to protect it from insects and fungi. It is often used for terraces, fences and garden sheds.
Similar to pine, fir (class 2-3) is a coniferous wood that also requires treatment for outdoor use. It is lighter and less resistant than pine, and suitable for less demanding applications.
As for thermally treated ash (class 3), it offers a contemporary aesthetic and is suitable for terraces, cladding and garden furniture. Although it has some natural resistance, a treatment is recommended to extend its lifespan outdoors.
Spruce (class 2-3) is a light, easy-to-work wood, but not very durable naturally. A treatment is essential for outdoor use. It is mainly used for frameworks and timber structures, and less often for applications directly exposed to the weather.
Define the use: terrace, cladding, fencing, garden furniture, etc. The intended use will determine the properties required of the wood.
Consider exposure: exposure to sun, wind and rain will influence the choice of species and the need for treatment.
Take aesthetics into account: colour, grain, appearance. The aesthetics of the wood must harmonise with your environment. Also think about the finish you prefer (rustic, modern, etc.).
Respect the environment: favour local species and certified wood from sustainably managed forests.
Plan for maintenance: regular maintenance is necessary to preserve the beauty and durability of outdoor wood.
Do you have an outdoor carpentry project in Switzerland? EDIREX connects you with qualified and experienced carpenters in your region, in Switzerland.
On our site, you can quickly obtain free, no-obligation quotes to compare the best offers and carry out your project with complete peace of mind.
Our EDIREX.ch platform guarantees quality work carried out by trusted professionals. Do not hesitate to contact us for more information.
Find us on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn.
Compare up to 3 free quotes from verified artisans in French-speaking Switzerland. No commitment, response within 48h.
