Sustainability is more than a recent trend; it is a total set of values that affects an individual and how he/she lives. Naturally, the underpinnings of such a movement will direct how one purchases products, including building products. While sustainability is more acutely recognized in other industries, such as the food industry, it nonetheless has seen considerable growth in building products, such as those used in fence and deck construction. The benefits of buying materials deemed sustainable are varied and multiple, from the durability of such products to the knowledge that such materials are harvested in such a manner so as not to disrupt nature’s incredible balance. For those inclined to such values, sustainable building products offers the chance to proceed with home construction projects but to do while minimizing one’s effects on the environment.

While sustainable building products are closely associated with the desire to minimize one’s environmental impact, there are additional tangible effects one can expect. For example, by using lumber harvested from local forests durability increases. Because locally harvested wood products are more adapted to your specific environment and climate, normal wear and tear is diminished often leading to longer-lasting materials in construction projects.

For most homeowners, adding a deck or a fence is an important home construction project and dull diligence should be used when selecting the right products to use. Sustainable lumber makes for great fence posts and quality deck surfacing options. Consequently, one can add significant value to their home in terms of deck or fence construction all while supporting locally harvested lumber and the environment.

Here in the Northwest, some of highest quality sustainable lumber is Western Juniper and Western Red Cedar. Western Juniper has the distinction of being incredibly durable, rated at 50+ years for in-ground use. Additionally, Western Juniper is naturally rot and pest resistant (even without chemical application) in addition to being safe for children and pets. Western Red Cedar, for its part, has incredible dimensional stability thus minimizing warping and shrinkage.

While important to plan for and enact valuable home construction projects, it’s just as important to consider what type of building materials you are using and, additionally, what type of impact you will have on your local environment. By choosing sustainable building products, you are choosing responsibly harvested materials that have long life spans. Buying sustainably has never been easier so take advantage of your options and make the sustainable, responsible choice.