How to Choose the Right Siding for Your Home

Siding can make or break the appearance of your home regardless of the size, age, or location. In addition to aesthetics, siding can affect the energy consumption of your home, your maintenance requirements, and your resale value if you decide to sell in the future. If you are thinking of replacing your siding soon, it can be difficult to determine which option is right for your needs. As leading providers of siding for all types of homes, the team at Country Lumber understands this challenge. That is why we have provided some information detailing how to choose the right siding for your home.

Learn about the benefits of vinyl siding to see if it is the right choice for your home.

Factors to Consider When Choosing Siding

When looking at siding for your home, it is worth considering the following factors to ensure that you are choosing the right option:

Aesthetics

The right siding can drastically enhance your curb appeal, making a great impression on guests, neighbours, and passing drivers. On the other side of the scale, the wrong siding can make your home look outdated and unappealing. It is important to consider how the siding you choose will look on your home. Be sure to choose an option that goes well with the design, paint colour, and natural features of your property. Options like white vinyl siding and natural wood siding tend to work well with most homes, but proper planning can help you choose a more unique option for your preferences and home requirements.

Maintenance

Some siding materials last longer than others depending on how well they are maintained. While some siding materials deliver great performance and durability with minimal maintenance, other materials require regular care and cleaning to ensure that they remain viable. For example, vinyl requires less maintenance than wood, but well-maintained wood siding can last much longer. Be sure to consider how much cleaning and repairs your siding will require over time to ensure that you are not choosing a material that you will not be able to maintain.

Efficiency

Keeping your home warm in winter and cool in summer can be difficult and expensive. This is especially true if your siding is letting too much air in or out of your home. To counter the heat loss or gain, your HVAC system will need to work harder and consume more energy in the process. The right siding can make temperature control a more manageable task regardless of your typical weather conditions. This will increase your comfort and save you money over time.

To learn more about our selection of siding solutions and other home products, get in touch with the team at Country Lumber. We can be reached through our online contact form and will work with you to determine the ideal solution for your specific needs.

The Differences Between Rough-Sawn and Planed Lumber

When it comes to timbers, there are so many options available and considerations to keep in mind that it can be nearly impossible to make a final decision. Timber can be expensive, so purchasing the wrong type can be a costly mistake. That is why knowing the differences between rough-sawn and planed lumber is crucial for choosing the best option for your project and budget. As leading providers of timbers and other building materials, Country Lumber understands the importance of choosing the right materials for the job. That is why we have provided some information outlining the key characteristics of each type of lumber to help users make an informed choice.

Learn about the benefits of engineered wood.

Rough-Sawn Lumber Characteristics

Rough-sawn lumber is the most basic form of wood preparation after the tree has been felled. This type of timber has been cut down to size with a circular saw without receiving any further treatment. Due to this lack of sanding and other finishing work, the sides and edges of each piece of lumber are left with a rough and unfinished surface.

Due to the simplicity of this preparation method, rough-sawn lumber is almost always cheaper than planed lumber. This makes it a great choice for jobs where the finish of the wood is not important such as internal frames or beams beneath flooring. Rough-sawn lumber can also be a great choice if the buyer has all the equipment needed to sand and finish the lumber, as this will take more time but save a considerable amount of money.

Planed Lumber Characteristics

Planed lumber, also known as dressed lumber, is timber that has been cut down to size and passed through a planer to remove the rough outer layer. This planing process was once performed entirely by hand, but modern machinery can attain similar results in a fraction of the time. After the planing process is complete, the timber is left with a smooth, splinter-free finish on one or more faces. The grain and other details of the wood will also be visible, resulting in an aesthetically pleasing appearance.

Planed lumber is ideal for jobs that require flush joints between separate pieces of wood such as shelves, counters, and any object that would benefit from enhanced aesthetics. Planed lumber is more expensive due to the extra work involved in production, but it saves the user a significant amount of time. It should be noted that planed lumber is typically available in PAR and PSE configurations. These stand for “planed all around” and “planed single edge” respectively and refer to the number of smooth surfaces on the finished lumber.

For assistance choosing the right timber products for your project, get in touch with the team at Country Lumber. We can be reached through our online contact form and will work with you to provide the perfect solution for your specific needs.

Benefits of Cedar Fences

Are you looking to build a new fence for your home? If you are looking for a natural and appealing option that can suit the needs of most living spaces, wood fencing is a great option. With so many styles and materials available, it can be difficult to determine which option is best for your needs. As leading providers of fencing products for all types of homes, the team at Country Lumber understands the challenge of choosing the right materials. That is why our team has compiled a list of benefits of cedar fences to help you determine if they are the right choice for your home.

Learn how to recognize the signs you need a new fence.

3 Reasons to Choose a Cedar Fence

Cedar fences are a versatile option that can fit the needs of most homes and other properties. When you choose a cedar fence, you are choosing a material that offers the following benefits:

1. Durability and Longevity

Cedar is exceptionally durable, allowing it to resist harsh weather conditions and impacts that would damage other varieties of wood. Fences constructed from cedar maintain their shape and appearance longer than any other type of lumber, making it a great choice for your forever home. Cedar can change its moisture content to match the environment it is in, minimizing the need for maintenance and ensuring durability in any season. While cedar can be more expensive than some varieties of wood, the durability, longevity, and minimal maintenance requirements more than make up for the cost.

2. Curb Appeal

The design and general aesthetic of your fence can have a significant positive or negative effect on the curb appeal of your home. Cedar fences are aesthetically pleasing and can match nearly any design or colour scheme. Whether you choose to leave the cedar as is, have it stained, or paint it, you can be sure that your fence will look great.

3. Privacy and Comfort

Cedar fences feature durable boards that form a solid wooden structure without any large holes or gaps. This ensures optimal privacy and sound insulation, allowing you to relax in your yard with minimal noise. Cedar fences can be cut to any length you wish, ensuring that you have as much privacy as you need. In addition to keeping prying eyes out of your yard, cedar fences are great for blocking wind and natural air pockets. This helps to keep your yard cooler in summer and warmer in winter, keeping you comfortable throughout the year.

To learn more about cedar fences and our other fencing products, get in touch with the team at Country Lumber. We can be reached at 604-533-4447 and will work with you to deliver the perfect solution for your needs.

What to Consider Before Building a Deck

If you are considering building a deck for your backyard, there are many factors to consider before construction begins. Understanding what these factors are is crucial for ensuring that your deck is perfect for your home and family. From the location to your budget, every factor plays a vital role in determining how your deck will be constructed. As leading providers of decking products and quality materials, Country Lumber knows what it takes to build the perfect deck. That is why our team has provided some information on what to consider before building a deck to ensure the best possible results.

Learn how to replace deck boards.

5 Things to Consider When Building a Deck

Before building a deck, it is worth considering the following:

1. The Purpose and Function

While planning your deck, most of the design decisions you make will impact future elements and choices. To ensure that your design matches the function, it is important to think about the purpose of your deck. Whether it will be used for family dinners, entertaining, or an outdoor garden, this purpose should be determined before construction begins.

2. The Location

The location of your deck will vary greatly based on the size of your property and the layout of your home. If you have several placement options, you will need to consider a few different factors. The proximity of the deck to various home entrances, privacy options, and views will all influence the final location of your deck.

3. Total Budget

Your total budget will influence every aspect of your deck from the materials used to the final size. The amount of funds you have available will also determine if you will be building it by yourself or hiring a contractor to handle the job.

4. The Materials and Design

The materials used to construct your deck will have a substantial impact on the durability and design. From pressure-treated woods to premium hardwoods, there are many different materials to choose from based on their price and appearance. In addition to the materials used, your design will be impacted by the colour of your home, the size of your yard, your fence, and other elements.

5. Codes and Safety

Whether you are building your deck yourself or are hiring a contractor, it is worth learning about the relevant codes and permits required for the project. This can save you money and ensure that your deck is safe for you and your family.

To learn more about our selection of decking products and other materials, get in touch with the Country Lumber team. We can be reached at 604-533-4447 and are ready to answer any questions you may have.

How to Replace an Exterior Door

Exterior doors are a key feature for any home, especially for the front entrance. Doors make an immediate impression on guests as they are often the first thing they see or interact with when entering your living space. Exterior doors are often subject to heavy use and can be a common site for impacts, especially when moving large objects in or out of the house. After some time has passed, your door may become worn or damaged and need to be replaced. Though the replacement process often appears to be simple, it can be complicated. That is why the team at Country Lumber has provided some information on how to replace an exterior door. Keeping to a set process will ensure optimal efficiency, safety, and results.

Learn how to change a doorknob.

Steps to Replace an Exterior Door

To ensure the best possible fit when replacing your exterior door, perform the following steps:

1. Remove the Old Door and Door Hardware

Remove the doorknob and lock systems from your old door as they will not serve any purpose in a door that isn’t attached anywhere. Remove all screws and pins for all door hardware and pull them out of their slots. Once this hardware is removed, use a hammer or screwdriver to pop the hinge pins out of the hinges. Start from the bottom and work your way up, pulling the door out once all pins are removed.

2. Transfer or Replace the Hinges

Unscrew each hinge from the old door and fasten these to the new door. If you are completely replacing the door hinges, you should remove the old hinges from the door frame and the door, replacing them with the new hinges.

3. Measure and Prepare the New Door

Measure the door and check the “handedness” to ensure that it aligns with your dimensions and preferences. Install the hinge pins to the door and ensure that the hinges are installed in the door frame.

4. Hang the New Door and Check the Fit

Lift the door and line the hinge pins up with the hinge placements in the door frame. Line up the pins and tap them back into place with a hammer. Once the door is placed on the hinges, ensure that the knob placement lines up with the strike plate on the door frame. Ensure that the door does not drag, does not leave too much space in any area, and that it is centred in the frame.

5. Install the New Hardware

Reinstall the doorknob (or install a new one) by pushing the latch into the side of the door and threading the doorknob axle through it. You may need to adjust the length of the latch if it does not fit or line up properly. Attach the opposite side of the doorknob and then fasten each side in place with the screws. From here, reinstall any locks or other hardware.

To learn more about how to replace an exterior door or to learn more about our products, get in touch with the Country Lumber team. We can be reached through our online contact form and will be happy to answer any questions you may have.

Benefits of Vinyl Siding

When it comes to siding for your home, there are many different options to choose from. With materials ranging from wood and metal to vinyl and fibre cement, it can be difficult to determine which is best for your needs and budget. As leading providers of quality siding products, the team at Country Lumber understands the importance of making the right choice. That is why our experts have provided some information on the benefits of vinyl siding to help you determine if it is the right choice for your home.

Learn where to buy house siding materials.

Why Choose Vinyl for Your Home’s Siding

Vinyl siding is a popular option that can suit the needs of many homes regardless of size or climate. When you choose vinyl siding for your home, you are choosing a solution that offers the following benefits:

Durability

Vinyl siding is designed and constructed to withstand harsh weather conditions including heavy wind, direct sunlight, and impact from hail. It is also extremely resistant to moisture, preventing rot and corrosion that can occur on other types of siding. Vinyl siding often comes with a lifetime warranty, with some products offering up to 50 years of coverage.

Versatility and Curb Appeal

One of the great selling points for vinyl siding is that it can be constructed to have the appearance of any other type of siding. For example, it can be designed to look like various types of wood or stone, granting the benefits of vinyl while retaining an appearance suited to your preference. Vinyl siding is available in multiple colours, eliminating the need for painting. Due to this variety, vinyl siding is a great method of increasing curb appeal for your home while keeping costs down.

Incredible Value

If you are looking for a cost-effective method of updating the exterior of your home, vinyl siding is the perfect solution. Vinyl costs less than wood or bricks while retaining exceptional durability. It is also designed for easy installation, decreasing the initial purchase costs and potential labour costs. Choosing insulated vinyl siding can also save money on heating and cooling, further enhancing value. In addition to these benefits, vinyl siding is virtually maintenance-free, saving you time and money over time.

To learn more about the benefits of vinyl siding or for assistance choosing the best option for your needs, get in touch with the team at Country Lumber. We can be reached through our online contact form and will be happy to assist you.

Signs you Need a new Fence

Fences are an important part of any home and yard. In addition to enhancing privacy and serving as a clear divider between property lines, a well-built fence can enhance the curb appeal of any property. Unfortunately, the opposite is also true. A damaged and worn-down fence can reduce privacy and damage the curb appeal of a home despite any other features. As leading providers of quality fencing products, the team at Country Lumber has compiled a list of common signs that you need a new fence. Knowing these signs will allow you to accurately monitor the condition of your fence and determine the optimal time to repair or replace it.

Signs That it is Time to Replace Your Fence

It may be time to replace your fence if it is displaying any of the following characteristics:

Holes in the Wood

For wooden fences, a few small holes are often normal and acceptable. Wood is a natural material that differs piece by piece, so some small gaps and holes are to be expected. If these holes and gaps start to expand or increase in number, that is a sure sign of a failing fence. Holes can expand or appear due to insect damage or harsh weather conditions and significantly weaken the structural integrity of the fence. If these holes or gaps only appear on a few boards, replacing the affected boards may be enough. In most cases, however, the entire fence will need to be replaced.

Leaning or Warped Boards

Fences are supposed to stand at a straight 90° angle. If your fence is significantly leaning forward or backward, that can be a sign of improper installation or worn wood. Leaning can also be a sign of changing soil conditions or damaged posts. Regardless of the cause, a leaning fence will often require significant work or replacement to get it to stand up straight again. 

Significant Discolouration

As a natural material, smooth wood requires stain and clear coating for protection from the elements. The clear coat and stain can become damaged over time due to sunlight, snow, and heavy rain. If it is not reapplied and maintained regularly, wood can become faded and grey in colour. Once the wood has become discoloured, it is more prone to chipping, warping, and other damage.

Damage from Accidents or Tree Growth

If an object has fallen into your fence or tree roots have grown beneath it, this can drastically damage it. Though most accidental damage can be repaired by replacing certain sections of a fence, significant damage may warrant a full replacement. If accidental damage occurs to an exceptionally old fence, it may serve as the perfect reason to replace it.

To learn more about fencing products and signs that you may need a new fence, reach out to the team at Country Lumber. Our experts can be reached through our online contact form and will be happy to assist you with your fencing project.  

Benefits of Engineered Wood

Engineered wood is a highly versatile and sustainable option for construction projects, flooring, and other areas where traditional hardwood is used. Also known as composite wood, man-made wood, or manufactured board, engineered wood is manufactured by binding the strands, particles, fibres, or veneers of wood together with adhesives and pressure. This forms a composite wood material that is engineered to precise performance and safety standards. At Country Lumber, we are proud to provide a full selection of engineered TJI joists, microlam, Parallam®, and Timberstrand® products for all projects. To demonstrate the effectiveness of these products, our team has provided a list of key benefits of engineered wood.

Why Choose Engineered Wood?

Engineered wood offers a variety of benefits for all types of construction projects and facilities. When you choose engineered wood, you are choosing a solution that is:

Engineered for Optimal Versatility

Engineered wood products can be constructed in a variety of shapes and lengths that natural wood may not be available in. This allows for the use of one extremely long piece of lumber instead of multiple pieces of hardwood that have been joined together, reducing labour requirements. Engineered wood is also available in large sheets known as pressboard. These sheets are ideal for a variety of construction and decorative purposes. Engineered wood can be effectively used for support beams, flooring, cabinets, desks, and many other parts of a project.

Built to Provide Strength and Durability

Engineered wood does not have naturally occurring knots or other weak points that are present in natural lumber. This allows for consistent strength and durability throughout the entire piece of wood. The glue used to join the wood particles and veneers together greatly increases resistance to water and moisture. As a result, engineered wood is more resistant to rot, insects, and mold. Engineered wood is also more resistant to warping and cracking compared to natural wood, increasing its durability and total usable life.

Highly Sustainable

Sustainability is of the utmost importance when it comes to the lumber industry in BC. Companies must ensure that the demand for natural lumber/hardwood does not outweigh the supply. That is why many operations are starting to utilize engineered wood products in their construction projects. Engineered wood products are constructed from the leftover particles and pieces of processed hardwood products. Materials that would normally be burned or disposed of are now used to construct sustainable lumber products, minimizing waste and reducing the number of trees needed for hardwood supply.

To learn more about the benefits of engineered wood products and our other lumber solutions, reach out to the experts at Country Lumber. We can be reached by phone at 604-533-4447 or through our online contact form and will be happy to assist you.

Where to Find Power Tools in Langley

Whether you are working on a small personal project or a large construction project, you need power tools you can rely on. That is why it is important to know where to find power tools in Langley and the surrounding areas. At Country Lumber, we provide high-quality power tools for all types of projects. Whether you are looking for a drill, circular saw, sander, or combo kit, we can help. We also provide a full selection of pneumatic tools and compressors to ensure that you have everything you need to get the job done right.

Power Tool Solutions in Langley

High-quality power tools and pneumatic tools help optimize productivity and safety for any project. That is why we are proud to offer the following types of tools:

Drills

Drills are a vital tool for many projects involving lumber or other materials that need to be joined with screws. Most drills are available in cordless formats that utilize a rechargeable battery, allowing effortless portability and long run times. Many models also feature controls that allow the user to limit the amount of torque, preventing damage from overtightening.

Saws

When you need to quickly cut lumber, a circular saw, jigsaw, or reciprocating saw are great choices. These units often require cords for operation but are smaller handheld units that can be easily transported. For larger materials, a table saw or miter saw is often the better option. These units are designed to offer extra stability and precision, making them ideal for precise cuts.

Sanders and Grinders

If you need to paint or stain wood, it often needs to be sanded to remove rough edges and splinters. That is why Country Lumber provides a selection of belt and orbital sanders based on your needs. Sanders are available in corded and cordless configurations based on their power. For smoothing out or polishing metal and other hard surfaces, you will likely need to use an angle grinder. These units are designed to smooth out hard materials, but some models can also be used to cut them with the proper attachments.

Nail Guns

Nail guns are a popular tool that is often powered by an air compressor. Also known as nailers, these pneumatic tools are ideal for roofing, finishing, and flooring. Their power makes it easy to drive nails through difficult surfaces that hammers would not be effective on. Though they are attached to a compressor, most nail guns are fairly light and easy to maneuver.

Compressors

To power your pneumatic tools, you need a reliable air compressor. That is why Country Lumber is proud to provide complete compressor and air hose solutions. This allows you to get the air you need any time you need it.

For more information on our selection of power tools and building materials, reach out to our team through our online contact form. We will be happy to answer your questions and help you find the perfect solutions for your needs.

How to Replace Deck Boards

If your deck is starting to show signs of wear or damage, it may be time to replace some of the boards. Also known as decking, common signs of damage include rotting, splitting, or warping of the wood. Each of these signs are unsightly and potentially unsafe if left unfixed. That is why it is important to have a plan to replace damaged deck boards as soon as possible. At Country Lumber, we know that it can be difficult to determine where to start when replacing deck boards. That is why our team of experts have created a guide outlining how to replace deck boards safely and effectively.

Steps for Replacing Deck Boards

When replacing deck boards, it is important to know the whole process before starting the job. This will ensure that the job is completed smoothly and in less time. To replace your decking, ensure that you have the required tools, then follow these steps:

1. Mark the Damaged Boards

Examine the deck and mark the locations of the damaged boards. Measure the portions of the board that will be removed to ensure that you are cutting the proper length for replacement decking. Ensure that these new pieces of lumber are supported at each end and by one joist.

2. Remove the Damaged Boards

Remove all nails or screws from the damaged boards or cut the damaged portions away from existing boards.

3. Seal any Joist Rot

Check the spaces under the removed decking for any rot. The lumber under the decking is known as the joist. If there is any rot on the joist, remove it and apply two coats of clear sealer to protect it.

4. Reinforce the Joist

After sealing the joist, it is recommended to reinforce it with another joist. Position the new joist tightly against the existing one and attach it with industrial nails or screws.

5. Secure Reinforcing Joist

Attach the reinforcing joist to the ledger and header joist. This will ensure that it remains secure when adding new decking.

6. Measure and Cut the new Decking

Use the measurements from the removed pieces of decking to cut new pieces. This new decking should fit snugly in the open space. If there is any cupping, position the decking with the convex/crowned side facing up. 

7. Finish the Wood

Stain or finish the wood to match your existing finish.

8. Install the new Decking

After the finish is set, install the new boards with galvanized screws or nails. Ensure that the replacement decking matches the size of the old boards.

Following these steps will ensure the safe replacement of damaged decking. For more information on decking or other lumber products, please reach out to the team at Country Lumber. We can be reached at 604-533-4447 or through our online contact form.