Why You Should Use Untreated Lumber for Birdhouses: A Safe Choice for Backyard Birds
If you love attracting songbirds and creating a bird-friendly backyard, one of the most important decisions you’ll make is what type of wood to use for your DIY birdhouse. While many home projects call for treated wood to prevent decay, when it comes to birdhouses, untreated lumber is the safest and most environmentally friendly option.
The Dangers of Pressure-Treated Wood for Birds
It can be tempting to reach for pressure-treated lumber because it’s resistant to rot, mold, and insects. However, treated wood contains chemical preservatives like copper, arsenic, and formaldehyde—substances that can be toxic to birds. Birds often peck and cling to the surfaces of their homes, and exposure to these chemicals can harm both adult birds and hatchlings. Even low levels of chemical fumes can affect a bird’s delicate respiratory system.
Benefits of Using Untreated Wood for Birdhouses
Choosing natural, untreated wood ensures that your birdhouse is safe and healthy for nesting birds. Woods like cedar, pine, or cypress are durable, breathable, and provide excellent insulation against temperature changes. These natural materials also age beautifully, blending into your garden or yard.
Untreated wood helps regulate the interior temperature of the birdhouse, keeping it cooler in summer and warmer in early spring—conditions that are crucial for nesting success.
How to Protect Untreated Wood Naturally
If you’re concerned about weather damage, you can apply a thin layer of non-toxic, water-based exterior paint or sealant to the outside only of the birdhouse. Avoid painting or sealing the interior, as birds need a natural wood surface to grip when entering and exiting the nest.
Eco-Friendly and Bird-Safe Building
Using untreated lumber isn’t just safer for birds—it’s also better for the environment. Treated wood can leach chemicals into the soil and nearby water sources over time, while untreated wood decomposes naturally and supports a more sustainable ecosystem.
By using untreated lumber for birdhouses, you’re creating a safe haven for your local bird population and contributing to a healthier backyard habitat. Whether you’re building a simple bluebird box, a wren house, or a decorative bird nesting shelter, untreated wood is always the best and safest choice.
Shop our selection of eco-friendly birdhouses here!