Great question—and one I wrestled with when I first launched my landscaping business. The short answer is: we use both, but with a deliberate strategy that prioritizes sustainability without compromising structural integrity.

For our outdoor bench factory, raw lumber remains the backbone of production. We source certified sustainably-harvested hardwoods like cedar and black locust from regional mills. Why? Because these species offer natural rot resistance and can withstand years of sun, rain, and frost. Raw lumber gives us precise control over dimensions, load-bearing capacity, and finish quality. When a client needs a highly customized bench—say, a curved slat design for a park pathway—nothing beats fresh, kiln-dried timber that we can mill to exact tolerances.

However, we’ve increasingly shifted toward reclaimed materials for specific product lines. Salvaged barn beams, decommissioned railway sleepers, and even old factory floorboards get cleaned, de-nailed, planed, and treated. The aesthetic is unmatched: weathered grain, nail holes, and mineral stains tell a story that new wood simply cannot replicate. Reclaimed lumber also reduces landfill waste and lowers our carbon footprint, which resonates with eco-conscious commercial clients—especially those pursuing LEED certification for their properties.

The real art is in the selection process. For structural frames, I always use raw lumber, because reclaimed wood can hide internal cracks or compromised grain. For seat slats and backrests, we often mix both: raw wood for the core support, reclaimed planks for the visible surface. This hybrid approach balances strength, beauty, and budget. Reclaimed material costs more upfront due to labor-intensive sorting and milling, but it can command a premium price in the final product. Raw lumber is more predictable and faster to work with, making it ideal for bulk orders.

So, to answer your question directly: yes, I source raw lumber from responsibly-managed forests, and yes, I actively integrate reclaimed materials—but never at the expense of safety. Each bench gets a structural load test, regardless of origin. If you’re entering this field, my advice is to build a dual supply chain. Find a reliable sawmill for fresh wood and a network of deconstruction contractors for salvage. That flexibility lets you quote every project with confidence, whether the client wants modern minimalism or rustic charm. Ultimately, the best bench isn’t about the label on the material—it’s about how well it serves the landscape and the people who sit on it for decades to come.