How to Save Money on Your Outdoor Projects

Whether you’re a professional builder or DIYer, you want to keep an eye on the cost of your project. Here are Real Cedar’s top three Pro Tips on how to lower the cost of your lumber:

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• Incorporate Non-Standard Lengths 

Building a beautiful Western Red Cedar deck? Good call! Western Red Cedar not only looks great, it’s naturally resistant to rot, decay and insects, which means your structure is going to last a long time with minimal maintenance. Furthermore, when you factor in its stunning appearance and incredibly strong performance properties, cedar is a relatively affordable building material. But if you want to save even more money, consider incorporating 10-foot, 14-foot and 18-foot lengths into your design.

Here’s why: when specifying Western Red Cedar decking, the price of 10s, 14s and 18s is often less per foot than the same material in other lengths. That’s because most building codes require you to build decks 16” or 24” on center, so divisible lengths – or “prime lengths” like 8-foot, 12-foot and 16-foot are more in demand and tend to sell for more.

Need more info on how to specify, store and finish Real Cedar products? Visit our decking section for pro tips and how-to videos.

• Ask for Shorter Lengths 

For smaller projects such as Adirondack chairs or picnic tables, you often don’t need longer lengths like 16s, 18s and 20s. These lengths are generally more expensive per board foot because they’re harder to manufacture. Why? Raw logs like Western Red Cedar are wider at the base than at the top, meaning they yield fewer long boards than shorter ones so tighter supplies result in higher prices.

That’s why building professionals know to ask their local Real Cedar supplier if they carry any shorter lengths. So not only does this mean less cutting, it also means more money left in your pocket. For decking projects, you can ask for shorter lengths as well. You can either stagger the boards, keeping in mind you may end up with more butt joints. But that can add a lot of visual interest to the deck. For a cleaner geometrical look, another option is to use a transition piece. For example, instead of using all 20s, use twice as many 10s and run a horizontal piece between the two sets of 10s. You may need an extra joist or two, but the savings can be significant.

Use the Western Red Cedar decking calculator and find a Real Cedar supplier near you on our website and ask if they carry or can order shorts.

• Consider Knotty Grades 

Architecturally, clear and knotty grades of cedar are both superior products when it comes to performance and appearance. They both boast a naturally beautiful tonal range that aesthetically elevates all types of any outdoor project – be it a classic or contemporary design. Building professionals and DIYers opt for clear when they want a crisp clean modern look. When they want to add warmth and character, they opt for knotty grades. Of course, when you factor in how much value is added to your home when you incorporate Western Red Cedar into your projects, both clear and knotty offer great ROI.

At the end of day, knotty grades are the more cost-effective choice. So next time you are specifying Real Cedar, you might want to consider Architect Knotty decking and Select Knotty siding. In addition to saving you money, knotty cedar is very versatile. No longer seen a merely a go-to product for rustic cabins, knotty cedar is renowned for how it enriches modern designs.

• Want to create a defined dining area on your deck? Consider a Real Cedar BBQ shelter or modern outdoor dining table.

In the realm of home improvement, the allure of DIY projects is undeniable. Not only do they allow homeowners to express their creativity and personalise their living spaces, but they also offer significant cost savings compared to hiring professionals. However, even the most enthusiastic DIYers can find themselves facing unexpected expenses if they’re not careful. That’s where savvy budgeting and the right choice of hardware come into play. In this guide, we’ll explore strategies for saving money on home projects by making smart decisions about hardware in .

Plan Ahead and Set a Realistic Budget

Before diving into any DIY project, it’s essential to have a clear plan in place. Outline your goals, desired outcomes, and the materials needed for the project. Research the average costs of materials and labour if you were to hire professionals for comparison. Setting a realistic budget will help you stay on track and avoid overspending.

Choose Projects Wisely

While it’s tempting to tackle every home improvement project at once, prioritising is key, especially when budget constraints are a concern. Identify the most urgent or impactful projects and focus on those first. Start with smaller, more manageable projects that require minimal materials and investment in hardware.

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Shop Around for the Best Deals

Don’t settle for the first hardware store you come across. Take the time to shop around and compare prices at different retailers, both online and offline. Look for sales, promotions, and discounts that can help you stretch your budget further. Additionally, consider purchasing gently used or refurbished hardware, which is often available at a fraction of the cost of new items.

At Expert Hardware, we take pride in providing our customers with competitive prices alongside personalised service and a welcoming atmosphere!

Consider Alternative Materials

High-quality hardware can be expensive, but there are often more affordable alternatives available that can achieve similar results. For example, instead of solid wood, consider using plywood or composite materials for certain projects. Explore different options and weigh the pros and cons of each in terms of cost, durability, and aesthetic appeal.

Do-It-Yourself Assembly

In some cases, purchasing unassembled or DIY kits can be more cost-effective than buying pre-assembled hardware. Whether it’s furniture, shelving units, or storage solutions, opting to assemble the items yourself can result in significant savings. Just be sure to follow the instructions carefully and have the necessary tools on hand.

Invest in Quality Tools

While it may seem counterintuitive to spend money on tools upfront, investing in high-quality tools can save you time, money, and frustration in the long run. Quality tools are more durable and efficient, resulting in better outcomes and fewer costly mistakes. Look for multipurpose tools that can serve multiple functions to get the most bang for your money.

If you’re a fairly new DIYer, simply pop in to your local Expert Hardware store and ask for advice. Our experienced staff can suggest the best quality/price ratio tools and order them in if you can’t find them in the store. 

Reuse and Repurpose

Before rushing out to buy new hardware for a project, take inventory of what you already have on hand. Repurpose old hardware from previous projects or items around the house that are no longer in use. Not only will this save you money, but it’s also an eco-friendly option that reduces waste and promotes sustainability.

DIY Demolition and Cleanup

Hiring professionals to handle demolition and cleanup can add up quickly in terms of labour costs. Whenever possible, tackle these tasks yourself to save money. Be sure to take proper safety precautions and follow best practices to avoid accidents or damage to your property.

Seek Out Free Resources and Tutorials

The internet is a treasure trove of free resources and tutorials for DIY enthusiasts. Take advantage of online forums, video tutorials, and instructional blogs to learn new skills and techniques. Not only will this empower you to take on more projects yourself, but it can also save you money by reducing the need for professional assistance.

Know When to Call in the Pros

While DIY projects can be a great way to save money, it’s important to recognize when a project is beyond your skill level or expertise. Attempting complex or dangerous projects without the necessary knowledge and experience can end up costing you more in the long run if mistakes are made. In such cases, it’s better to bite the bullet and hire a professional to ensure the job is done right the first time.

Saving money on home projects doesn’t have to mean sacrificing quality or cutting corners. By planning ahead, shopping smart, and making informed decisions about hardware, you can achieve impressive results while staying within your budget. With the right approach and a bit of creativity, you’ll be well on your way to transforming your living space without breaking the bank in .

Visit your local Expert Hardware store for a selection of power tools and expert advice

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