About Our Wood
Backyard Discovery uses 100% Cedar (C. Lanceolata) wood. Although we take great care in
selecting the best quality lumber available, wood is still a product of nature and susceptible
to weathering which can change the appearance of your set.
Your Backyard Discovery structure is designed and constructed of quality
materials. As with all outdoor products it will weather and wear. To maximize
the enjoyment, safety and life of your structure it is important that you properly
maintain it.
What causes weathering? Does it aff ect
the strength of my product?
One of the main reasons for weathering is the
eff
ects of water (moisture); the moisture content
of the wood at the surfac
e is diff
erent than the
interior of the wood. As the climate changes,
moisture moves in or out of the wood, causing
tension which can result in checking and or
warping. You can expect the following due to
weathering. T
hese changes will not aff
ect the
strength of the product:
1. Checking
is surface cracks in the wood along
the grain. A post (4” x 4”) will experience more
checking than a board (1” x 4”) because the surface
and interior moisture content will vary more widely
than in thinner wood.
2. Warping
results from any distortion (twisting,
cupping) from the original plane of the board and
often happens from rapid wetting and drying of
the wood.
3. Fading
happens as a natural change in the
wood color as it is exposed to sun-light and will
turn grey over time.
How can I reduce the amount of
weathering to wood product?
1.
Your wood product is coated with a
water-based stain
.
Sunlight will break down
the coating, so we recommend applying
a water repellent or stain on a yearly basis
(see your local stain and paint supplier for a
recommended product). You must apply some
type of protection (sealant) to the wood of your
product.
Please note this is a requirement
of your warranty
.
Most weathering is just
the normal result of natur
e and will not aff
ect
safety. However if you are concerned that a part
has experienced a severe weathering problem
please call our customer service department for
further assistance.
2.
Inspect wood parts monthly. The grain of
the wood sometimes will lift in the dry season
causing splinters to appear. Light sanding may
be necessary to maintain a safe environment.
Treating your Product with protection (sealant)
after sanding will help prevent severe checking/
splitting and other weather damage.
Instructions for Proper Maintenance
Owner’s Manual
9
