Oak & Treated Timber, What to Expect and How to Care for It

When you bring timber into your garden — whether it’s rustic green oak or pressure-treated softwood — you’re working with a living, breathing material. It flexes with the seasons, bears its scars with pride, and weathers into something truly timeless.

This guide covers what to expect from timber, how to maintain it, and where to explore further if you want to balance your impact with some good old-fashioned replanting.

Timber in Motion: Natural Behaviour

Unlike plastic or metal, timber evolves. Especially in the first 6–12 months, it will move, crack, swell, and shrink depending on weather exposure, humidity, and sun positioning. Don’t be alarmed — this is normal:

• Green oak is known to split, twist, and check as it dries. These natural cracks don’t compromise structural strength.

• Treated softwood is more stable, but still liable to minor surface splits or cupping depending on sun and moisture.

Over time, your timber will settle and stabilise — leaving you with a structure that feels rooted and real.

Timber Types at a Glance

We use both across our Pheasant and Co. collection depending on function and finish.

Care & Maintenance

Timber needs attention — but it rewards you tenfold with character and longevity. Here's how to treat it right.

1. General Maintenance

• Annual Check: Once a year, inspect all joints, bolts, and exposed ends. Tighten any loose fixings and clear debris from corners or roof joints.

• Post Bases: Ensure posts (especially bolt-down or ground-spiked) remain stable and not submerged in standing water.

• Leaf/Moss Clearance: Keep roofs clear of build-up to prevent moisture traps.

2. Cleaning

• Spring Clean: Use a stiff-bristled brush and warm, soapy water to gently scrub dirt and algae.

• Avoid Pressure Washers: These can strip fibres and accelerate weathering or splintering — especially on softer woods.

3. Surface Protection (Optional)

You don’t have to treat outdoor timber — letting it silver naturally is often part of the charm. But if you prefer to preserve colour or add a layer of protection:

• For Green Oak:

  • Let it weather for at least 6–12 months before applying anything.

  • If desired, use a clear, breathable wood oil such as:

    • Osmo UV-Protection Oil Extra (Clear or Tinted)

    • Liberon Superior Danish Oil

  • Avoid varnishes or sealants that trap moisture — these can cause blistering and rot over time.

• For Treated Softwood:

  • Already rot-resistant, but may benefit from:

    • Barrettine Premier Wood Preserver

    • Ronseal Total Wood Preserver

  • These can add pigment or deepen tone while allowing the wood to breathe.

4. Seasonal Care

Building for British Conditions

Each timber piece in our store is designed to survive — and thrive — in the UK climate. From heavy oak beams to softwood rafters, it’s all part of your garden’s evolution. That’s why we work with Pheasant & Co. — their builds are simple, raw, and real.

Whether you’re putting together a CookOut outdoor kitchen, adding a wood store, or constructing a Bro Bastion garden gym, timber’s versatility is what makes it such a valuable ally in any Warrior’s build.

Cooking with Firewood

When it comes to cooking over fire, not all wood is created equal. Choosing the right logs isn’t just about heat — it’s about flavour, consistency, and safety.

Here’s what we recommend:

Best Woods for Cooking

• Kiln-Dried Ash
  Burns hot and clean with minimal smoke. A favourite for both grilling and oven roasting. Reliable, dry, and perfect for steady heat.
  → Explore Kiln-Dried Ash Options

• Birch
  Slightly sweeter smoke and easy to light. Ideal for open-fire searing or adding gentle flavour to fish and vegetables.

• Oak (well-seasoned)
  Burns long and strong. A robust choice for large roasts or extended cooks — just ensure it's dry.

Avoid These

• Resinous woods (like pine or spruce)
  They produce a thick, oily smoke and can coat food — not to mention clog up chimneys and leave behind tar.

• Painted or Treated Timber
  Never cook with offcuts or scraps from construction timber. These can release toxic fumes when burned.

Pro Tip

Split wood to roughly the size of your wrist for faster ignition and better airflow. For smokers or pizza ovens, combine small kindling with mid-size logs to build and maintain a clean flame with minimal ash.

Going Further

We encourage customers to consider the ecological side too. If you're building with real wood, why not give back a little?

• Support Woodland Trust — the UK’s leading tree-planting charity.

• Explore Trees for Cities — bringing urban landscapes back to life.

• Learn about Regenerative Agriculture — and how sustainable timber can support better farming practices.

Choosing timber is a statement. Looking after it is a responsibility. Doing both well? That’s Warrior Garden.