For those of us concerned about the environment, avoiding the use of wood lumber is an obvious choice. The benefits of using alternative lumber go beyond environmental concerns.

If you are embarking on a building journey, you may come across concerns about water damage or maintenance. You can find alternative lumber options at almost any hardware store. Each comes with advantages.

Whether your heart goes out to the planet or to your pocket, there are many reasons to look into a wood alternative for your building project. Here are 5 awesome alternatives to traditional wood lumber that may satisfy you.

1. Recycled Plastic

Have you ever thought about building a house out of trash? This could be the future of building as the population grows and our trash builds up in landfills.

Made from post-consumer materials, plastic lumber can be used for a variety of building projects.

In addition to saving trees from getting the ax, this wood alternative is resistant to rotting and will last much longer than wood lumber.

2. Hemp

Hemp grows much faster and is far more sustainable than most other crops. The hemp fibers can be used to make ropes, clothing, and even lumber.

The fibers of the plant can be pressed into a board that resembles plywood. However, hemp fiber boards have been found to be much stronger and more durable than traditional wood boards.

Hemp may be the new cash crop that also saves the forests.

3. Cork

Yes, cork comes from a tree. However, the cork material comes from the bark of the tree, which grows back quickly.

Cork can be used for a variety of projects, including but not limited to flooring. In addition to being beautiful and environmentally friendly, cork offers sound insulation.

That means you can better sneak around your house at night.

4. Straw

Don’t worry, your house won’t get blown down by a power-hungry wolf.

As an alternative to traditional pressed wood, boards can be made using leftover grains. Oats, flax, and wheat are often collected to make bedding for farm animals, but it can cheaply be transported and transformed into framing materials for your home.

5. Cold-Formed Steel

Cold-formed steel has been a popular wood alternative for centuries. Not only is it cost effective, but it is easy on the planet.

This building material is made from old cars and buildings.

Producing cold-formed steel leaves only about 2% waste, as opposed to 20% for lumber. You also won’t have to worry about termite infestations or water damage.

You could build a whole home of steel if you are going for an industrial-chic look.

Into the Wood Alternative

There are a lot of reasons to look into alternative lumber options for your next building project. Whether you are concerned about the environment or are trying to save a dollar, a good wood alternative could be the solution.

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