Can You Use Reclaimed Wood Outdoors? Preparation and Species Guide

We get asked regularly whether reclaimed wood can be used for outdoor applications — decks, fences, pergolas, garden furniture, and exterior siding. The answer is yes, but with important caveats about species selection and preparation.

Species That Work Outdoors

Not all reclaimed wood is suitable for exterior exposure. Here are the species we recommend for outdoor use:

Cypress: Old-growth cypress is one of the most naturally rot-resistant woods available. Reclaimed cypress from water tanks, dock structures, and exterior siding is excellent for outdoor applications. It weathers to a beautiful silver-gray if left unfinished.

White oak: White oak's closed cell structure makes it naturally resistant to water penetration. It's been used in boatbuilding for centuries. Reclaimed white oak is a solid choice for exterior furniture, pergola posts, and other above-ground applications.

Eastern red cedar: Cedar's natural oils make it resistant to rot and insects. Reclaimed cedar from fencing, siding, and outbuildings performs well in exterior applications.

Black locust: One of the hardest and most rot-resistant domestic hardwoods. Reclaimed black locust fence posts and structural members are extremely durable outdoors.

Species to Avoid Outdoors

These common reclaimed species are not suitable for exterior use without chemical treatment:

• Red oak: Open pore structure absorbs water readily, leading to rapid decay
• Maple: Not naturally rot-resistant; deteriorates quickly outdoors
• Cherry and walnut: Beautiful indoors, poor durability outdoors
• Pine (except old-growth heart pine): Standard reclaimed pine will rot quickly in ground-contact or weather-exposed applications. Old-growth heart pine's high resin content gives it moderate exterior durability

Preparation for Outdoor Use

Even rot-resistant species benefit from proper preparation:

• Clean and inspect: Remove all dirt, debris, and old finishes. Check for hidden metal and soft spots
• Dry to appropriate moisture content: Outdoor wood should be acclimated to 12-15% moisture content before installation
• Apply a UV-protective finish: Unfinished wood will gray rapidly outdoors. If you want to maintain the wood's color, apply a penetrating exterior finish with UV inhibitors. Reapply annually or as needed
• Detail for drainage: Ensure your design allows water to drain away from wood surfaces. Avoid trapping moisture between boards or against other materials

Ground Contact

Even the most rot-resistant species will eventually decay in direct ground contact. For posts, use concrete footings or metal post bases to keep wood above grade. For raised beds and planters, line the interior with landscape fabric to reduce direct soil contact.

Reclaimed wood can be stunningly beautiful in outdoor settings — but species selection is everything. Choose the right wood for the application and it will serve you well for years. Choose wrong and you'll be replacing it within a season or two. When in doubt, ask us — we're happy to recommend the right material for your outdoor project.