TimberCity guides

Buying guides

Plain-English advice on choosing, estimating and buying lumber, decking, panels and fencing.

Featured · 6 min read

Building in Alberta's Climate: Frost, Snow and Freeze-Thaw

Deep frost, snow loads, freeze-thaw and dry chinooks — what they mean for the materials you choose.

5 min read

Upfront cost, upkeep, lifespan and looks: how the two most popular decking materials really compare.

4 min read

Both are structural panels, but they behave differently. Here is where each one shines.

5 min read

Not all treated wood is the same. Know which rating your project needs before you buy.

6 min read

Work out how much lumber, decking and hardware you need, with a worked example.

4 min read

Pick the right fence style and material for privacy, curb appeal or containment.

4 min read

A simple method to work out posts, rails, pickets and concrete for your fence run.

3 min read

A 2x4 is not 2 by 4. Here are the real dimensions, in inches and millimetres.

4 min read

SPF is the standard framing lumber in Western Canada. Here is how to read the stamp and choose the right piece.

Send us your plans or measurements and we will help you put together a material list and quote.