What is the best wood for exterior trim?
Ethan Hayes
Updated on April 12, 2026
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Also to know is, what kind of wood should I use for exterior trim?
Wood Trim
- Douglas Fir. Doug Fir is one of the most widely used of all the exterior wood trim materials.
- Redwood. Redwood is a great wood trim.
- Western Red Cedar. Cedar rivals redwood in weather and insect deterrents.
- Primed Fascia.
- Specialty Wood Trim Products.
Subsequently, question is, can I use pressure treated wood for exterior trim? Pressure-treated wood may not be the best choice for exterior trim, since most pressure-treated wood is southern yellow pine, a species that is not particularly good at holding paint. Although some lumberyards do sell premium grades of pressure-treated wood for exterior trim, this grade may be difficult to find.
In this manner, what is the best exterior wood?
9 Wood Species Best for Outdoor Projects
- Acacia. Acacia is a thick, strong hardwood with high oil content.
- Black Locust. Black Locust is one of the strongest and stiffest domestic woods.
- Cedar. Cedar is soft, light, and easy to work with.
- Cypress. Cypress wood is rot and insect resistant attributable to its natural oils.
- Douglas-Fir.
- Ipe.
- Redwood.
- Teak.
What kind of wood do you use for window trim?
The type of wood you can choose from usually ranges from poplar to pine to fir to oak to aspen. Once you've got the trim you want to use figured out, find out how to trim windows perfectly.
Related Question AnswersCan MDF be used for exterior trim?
It can not last in harsh conditions and should never be used for external framing and construction. Stick to heavy-duty lumbers such as plywood and OSB for these uses. That's not to say it can't be used outdoors. It just isn't as durable in certain outdoor applications, so builders tend to use alternatives.Will painted wood last outside?
Even though natural weather-resistant wood is the best choice for outdoor exposure, at some point it becomes vulnerable to decay. The only way to properly use untreated wood of any type outside is with the addition of water-repellent preservatives, sealer or paint that contain UV protection.How do you make wood waterproof?
There are three surefire ways to waterproof your wood for years to come.- Use linseed or Tung oil to create a beautiful and protective hand-rubbed finish.
- Seal the wood with coating of polyurethane, varnish, or lacquer.
- Finish and waterproof wood simultaneously with a stain-sealant combo.