Choosing the Right Timber for Indoor vs Outdoor Projects

Not all timber is created equal. Use the wrong type in the wrong setting, and you could end up with warped wood, rot, or a project that just doesn't last. Whether you're building a garden bench or fitting out a bedroom wardrobe, picking the right timber for indoor or outdoor use is crucial.

Here’s what you need to know before heading to the timber aisle.

Why Timber Choice Matters

Timber reacts to its environment. Outdoor timber needs to handle moisture, UV rays, temperature changes, and insects. Indoor timber, on the other hand, needs to be stable, good-looking, and easy to work with.

Get it wrong and your project could deteriorate fast—costing you time, money, and a lot of frustration.

Best Timber Types for Indoor Projects

When working indoors, the key priorities are aesthetic finish, stability, and ease of use. Here are some popular choices:

✅ Pine (Softwood)

• Affordable and easy to work with

• Takes paint and stain well

• Great for shelving, trim, panelling, and furniture

✅ MDF (Medium-Density Fibreboard)

• Perfect for painted finishes

• Smooth, knot-free surface

• Ideal for skirting boards, cabinet doors, and internal joinery

✅ Plywood

• Stable and cost-effective

• Great for underflooring, cabinetry backs, or boxed-in sections

• Comes in various grades depending on the finish you need

✅ Hardwoods (Oak, Ash, Walnut)

• More expensive, but incredibly durable and attractive

• Best for high-end furniture, flooring, or statement features

• Needs proper sealing to avoid movement due to humidity

Pro tip: For indoor projects, avoid using timber that’s been pressure-treated—it can release chemicals not ideal for enclosed spaces.

Best Timber Types for Outdoor Projects

Outdoor timber must be able to survive the elements. You need materials that resist moisture, rot, and insects—and ideally don’t warp or crack over time.

✅ Pressure-Treated Softwood

• The most common choice for fences, decking, sheds, and outdoor structures

• Treated with preservatives to resist rot and insect damage

• Needs regular maintenance (stain or paint) to maximise lifespan

✅ Cedar or Larch

• Naturally weather-resistant without treatment

• Beautiful grain patterns and good structural properties

• Great for cladding, garden planters, and outdoor furniture

✅ Hardwood (Teak, Iroko, Oak)

• Extremely durable and rot-resistant (especially teak)

• Ideal for premium outdoor furniture or garden features

• Expensive but built to last

✅ Exterior-Grade Plywood

• Designed for sheathing or cladding applications

• Bonded with water-resistant adhesive

• Should be sealed or painted for longevity

Important: Always seal cut edges of treated timber to maintain protection. And never use untreated indoor timber outdoors—it won’t last.

In Summary

• Indoor projects = choose smooth, stable timbers like pine, MDF, or hardwoods depending on the finish you want.

• Outdoor projects = go for pressure-treated timber, naturally durable species like cedar, or specialised outdoor-grade plywood.

Not sure what to use for your specific project? Drop by our timber yard or get in touch—our team can help you match the perfect timber to your plans.