Best Wood For Bird Houses: Top Picks Revealed [2023]

In search of the best wood for bird houses? Look no further, feathered-home builders!

This article offers the inside scoop on selecting the perfect timber for your winged tenants.

Create cozy nests that are both chic and functional, and watch as your backyard transforms into a bustling bird haven.

Top 9 Best Woods For Birdhouse

Choosing the best wood for a birdhouse is important for the safety and comfort of nesting birds. 

Here are some top wood choices that are durable and safe for outdoor use.

Cedar

Cedarwood is a popular choice for birdhouses due to its natural insect and weather resistance, as well as its durability. Here are some top characteristics of cedarwood for birdhouses:

Insect resistance

Cedarwood contains natural oils that repel insects and other pests, which helps keep the birdhouse free from infestations.

Weather resistance

Cedarwood is also resistant to rot and decay, making it ideal for use in outdoor birdhouses that are exposed to the elements.

Durability

Cedarwood is strong and sturdy, which means that birdhouses made from this material are less likely to break or become damaged over time.

Aromatic scent

Cedarwood has a pleasant, natural scent that can help repel insects and also adds to the appeal of the birdhouse.

Attractive appearance

Cedarwood has a beautiful, natural color and grain pattern that can enhance the look of the birdhouse and blend in with its surroundings.

Redwood

Redwood is another popular wood choice for birdhouses due to its natural resistance to decay and insects, as well as its durability. 

Here are some top characteristics of redwood for birdhouses:

Resistance to decay

Redwood contains natural tannins that make it resistant to decay, even when exposed to moisture.

Insect resistance

Like cedarwood, redwood also contains natural oils that repel insects and other pests.

Durability

Redwood is a strong and durable wood that can withstand the elements and resist damage over time.

Attractive appearance

Redwood has a distinctive reddish color and a beautiful, natural grain pattern that can add to the visual appeal of the birdhouse.

Sustainable sourcing

Redwood is a renewable resource and can be sourced from responsibly managed forests, making it an eco-friendly choice for birdhouse construction.

Douglas Fir

Douglas fir is a popular wood choice for birdhouses due to its strength, durability, and availability. 

Here are some top characteristics of Douglas fir for birdhouses:

Strength and durability

Douglas fir is a strong and durable wood that can withstand the elements and resist damage over time.

Availability

Douglas fir is widely available and affordable, making it a practical choice for birdhouse construction.

Attractive appearance

Douglas fir has a distinctive reddish-brown color and a prominent, visible grain pattern that can add to the visual appeal of the birdhouse.

Workability

Douglas fir is relatively easy to work with, which means that birdhouses made from this material can be crafted with precision and attention to detail.

Eco-friendliness

Douglas fir is a sustainable resource that can be sourced from responsibly managed forests, making it an environmentally friendly choice for birdhouse construction.

Pine

Pine is a popular wood choice for birdhouses due to its affordability and availability. 

Here are some top characteristics of pinewood for birdhouses:

Affordability

Pine is an affordable wood that is widely available, making it a practical choice for birdhouse construction.

Lightweight

Pine is a lightweight wood, which means that birdhouses made from this material are easy to move and hang.

Workability

Pine is relatively easy to work with, which means that birdhouses made from this material can be crafted with precision and attention to detail.

Eco-friendliness

Pine is a renewable resource that can be sourced from responsibly managed forests, making it an environmentally friendly choice for birdhouse construction.

Attractive appearance

Pine has a light, natural color and a subtle, visible grain pattern that can add to the visual appeal of the birdhouse.

Cypress

Cypress is another popular wood choice for birdhouses due to its natural resistance to decay and insects, as well as its durability. 

Here are some top characteristics of cypress for birdhouses:

Resistance to decay

Cypress contains natural oils that make it resistant to decay, even when exposed to moisture.

Insect resistance

Like cedarwood and redwood, cypress also contains natural oils that repel insects and other pests.

Durability

Cypress is a strong and durable wood that can withstand the elements and resist damage over time.

Teak

Teakwood is a premium wood choice for birdhouses due to its natural resistance to decay, insects, and weather, as well as its durability and attractive appearance. 

Here are some top characteristics of teakwood for birdhouses:

Resistance to decay and insects

Teakwood contains natural oils and resins that make it resistant to decay and insects, which helps keep the birdhouse free from damage and infestations.

Weather resistance

Teakwood is also highly resistant to weather and can withstand exposure to sunlight, rain, and humidity without warping or cracking.

Durability

Teakwood is an extremely strong and durable wood that can last for decades with proper care and maintenance.

Low maintenance

Teakwood requires very little maintenance, as it does not need to be stained, sealed, or painted to maintain its appearance and performance.

Plywood

Plywood is not typically used for birdhouses, it can be used as a backing material or for certain decorative elements. However, it is important to choose a high-quality, exterior-grade plywood that is free from knots and defects. 

Here are some top characteristics of plywood for birdhouses:

Affordability

Plywood is an affordable material that is widely available, making it a practical choice for backing or decorative elements of a birdhouse.

Workability

Plywood is relatively easy to work with, which means that it can be cut, shaped, and sanded to fit the specific needs of the birdhouse.

Strength and durability

High-quality, exterior-grade plywood is strong and durable, and can withstand the elements when properly sealed or painted.

Resistance to warping

Plywood is less likely to warp or bend over time than solid wood, making it a good choice for backing panels or structural elements of the birdhouse.

Oak

Oakwood is a durable and popular wood choice for birdhouses due to its strength and resistance to weather and insects. 

Here are three top characteristics of this wood for birdhouses:

Durability

Oakwood is a strong and sturdy wood that can withstand the elements and resist damage over time.

Resistance to weather and insects

Oakwood is naturally resistant to weather and insects, which helps keep the birdhouse in good condition.

Attractive appearance

Oakwood has a distinct and attractive grain pattern that adds visual interest to the birdhouse.

Beechwood

Beechwood is also a good choice for birdhouses, known for its strength, durability, and attractive appearance. 

Here are three top characteristics of beechwood for birdhouses:

Durability

Beechwood is a strong and durable wood that can resist damage from the elements and heavy use.

Workability

Beechwood is relatively easy to work with and can be shaped and cut into intricate designs.

Attractive appearance

Beechwood has a smooth and even grain pattern that makes it a popular choice for furniture and decorative woodwork, including birdhouses.

What is a Birdhouse?

A birdhouse, also known as a nest box or bird box, is a shelter that you can provide in your garden to help wild birds. It possesses all the characteristics of their natural home and provides them with a safe haven to build their nests and raise their young.

With a wide variety of shapes and sizes to choose from, you’re sure to find one that’s just right for the type of birds you hope will inhabit your space.

Not only do these attractive pieces of craftsmanship bring natural beauty to your garden, but regular monitoring of the box can give you an intimate glimpse into the fascinating life cycle of birds.

Benefits of building a birdhouse

Building a birdhouse is a great way to get outdoors, get creative, and help nature out at the same time!

Birdhouses can be a great addition to any backyard. Not only do they look beautiful, but you’ll find that your feathered friends will thank you for giving them a space to build their nests and take shelter in as well.

Offering shelter to birds will also attract more of them to your space; not only will you get to enjoy the beauty of these feathered visitors, but it’s also good for the environment too!

Furthermore, building birdhouses can be an entertaining or bonding experience for families or groups of friends searching for outdoor activity.

So why not get outside and embark on an adventure filled with building, laughing, learning and helping out your local wildlife?

The Best Wood for Birdhouses

A. Cedar

Cedar wood is an ideal material to use when building a birdhouse. It is lightweight yet strong and known to withstand a variety of weather conditions, making it an excellent choice for anyone looking to provide shelter for birds.

This type of wood is also naturally rot-resistant which means it will have a long life regardless of outdoor conditions.

Furthermore, due to the finer grain in cedar wood, this type of birdhouse provides better insulation than other varieties – something birds need during the winter months! Building with cedar can be fun and rewarding.

With so many benefits, it’s no wonder that cedar is considered one of the best materials for any birdhouse.

B. Redwood

It’s naturally rot, decay, and bug-resistant, making it an exceptionally durable choice.

Better yet, its light color reflects the sun’s rays, which helps keep your feathered friends cool during hot summer days. Moreover, Redwood contains natural oils that protect it from harsh elements so you won’t have to worry about replacing your birdhouse any time soon.

You can rest assured knowing your feathered friends will be safe and comfortable in their new home!

C. Pine

Pine is an incredibly popular choice for building birdhouses.

Known for its versatility, pine is a great option for a variety of projects. Pine boasts several desirable properties; it’s easy to work with, straightforward to cut, and fastens easily.

These traits make it a perfect fit for crafting birdhouses or feeders that will last the test of time. Not only that, the natural scent of pine can even attract birds to these finely crafted pieces!

D. Cypress

It is naturally water-resistant, making it ideal for outdoor use, and it is also durable and strong.

Additionally, Cypress has a unique aroma with insect-repellent properties that keep birds away from any pesky insects. This type of wood is also stable and provides insulation from both excessive heat and cold temperatures, ensuring your feathered friends remain comfortable all year round.

Not to mention the fact that Cypress is often more affordable than many other hardwood options. All these qualities make it an excellent choice, allowing you to construct a stunning and long-lasting birdhouse that will provide shelter for your feathered guests for many years to come.

Tips for Selecting the Right Wood for Birdhouses

A. Consider Durability and Weather Resistance

When selecting the right wood for your birdhouse, start by considering its durability and weather resistance. This is especially important if you live in an area with harsh climates that could potentially damage a less sturdy material.

Opt for woods such as Cedar, Redwood or Cypress – all of which are known to be durable and able to withstand even the most extreme weather conditions.

B. Think About Maintenance Requirements

In addition to durability, you’ll need to think about the maintenance required for your birdhouse.

All woods require some degree of care, but Cedar and Redwood are considered low-maintenance woods that don’t require much upkeep as they are naturally rot-resistant. On the other hand, Pine and Cypress require more maintenance to keep them looking fresh.

C. Choose a Color that Fits Your Aesthetic

Finally, you’ll want to think about the color of your birdhouse.

While Cedar and Redwood both offer a natural wood-grain look that blends in well with any landscape, Cypress and Pine offer a more vibrant color palette that can add an attractive touch to any outdoor space.

Consider which type of wood best complements your aesthetic and choose one that adds beauty to your backyard or garden.

Ultimately, choosing the right wood for your birdhouse is a matter of personal preference and should be based on what looks best to you. Whether you opt for Cedar, Redwood, Cypress or Pine, rest assured that these durable woods will provide a safe and comfortable home to your feathered friends!

Conclusion

All four of the woods mentioned—Cedar, Redwood, Pine, and Cypress—are excellent choices for crafting birdhouses. Each one offers unique benefits that make it an ideal option for those looking to construct a sturdy home for their feathered friends. Consider the durability and weather resistance of each material, as well as the maintenance requirements and the aesthetic of your birdhouse, when deciding which type of wood is right for you. No matter what option you choose, your birds are sure to feel safe a

With these tips in mind, you can easily pick the best wood for crafting a beautiful and long-lasting birdhouse that will attract birds to your backyard or garden!

Guide for Building a Birdhouse

When making a birdhouse, there are a few tips to keep in mind to ensure that it is a safe and suitable nesting place for birds:

1. Choose the right size: 

Different bird species require different size nesting boxes, so it’s important to research the species you want to attract and make sure the dimensions of the box are appropriate.

2. Use the right materials: 

Use a durable, non-toxic wood that is appropriate for outdoor use. Cedar, redwood, and cypress are all popular choices due to their natural resistance to decay and insects.

3. Include ventilation and drainage: 

Adding ventilation and drainage holes can help prevent moisture buildup inside the box, which can be harmful to nesting birds.

4. Provide an easy entryway: 

The entrance hole should be appropriately sized for the bird species and located in a way that is easily accessible to them.

5. Include perches: 

Perches can help birds enter and exit the box more easily, but they should be removable to prevent predators from using them to access the box.

Ideal Hole Size for a Birdhouse

The best size hole for a birdhouse depends on the species of bird that the house is intended for. Different bird species require different sizes of entrance holes. Here are some common entrance hole sizes for a few different bird species:

• Bluebirds: 1.5 inches
• Chickadees: 1.125 inches
• Nuthatches: 1.25 inches
• Wrens: 1 inch
• Woodpeckers: 1.5 to 2 inches

Waterproofing Your Birdhouse: Step-by-Step Guide

Waterproofing a birdhouse is important to prevent moisture from building up inside and potentially harming the nesting birds. Here are some steps to waterproof a birdhouse:

1. Choose a waterproof sealant: 

There are a variety of sealants available that can be used to waterproof a birdhouse. Some popular options include polyurethane, varnish, or a marine-grade sealant.

2. Apply the sealant: 

Once you have chosen a sealant, apply it to the exterior of the birdhouse using a brush or sprayer. Make sure to cover all surfaces, including the roof, walls, and floor.

3. Allow the sealant to dry: 

Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for drying time. In general, you will need to wait at least 24 hours before handling the birdhouse.

4. Apply a second coat (optional): 

For added protection, you can apply a second coat of sealant after the first coat has dried.

5. Monitor the birdhouse: 

Check the birdhouse periodically to make sure that the sealant is holding up and that there are no signs of moisture buildup or damage.

Best Finishes for Your Birdhouse: Safe and Suitable Options

The best finish for a birdhouse is one that is non-toxic and safe for nesting birds. A finish that is too thick or glossy can be harmful to birds, as it can prevent the wood from “breathing” and trap moisture inside the box. Here are some safe and suitable finishes for birdhouses:

1. Natural finish: 

Leaving the wood natural is a safe and suitable option for birdhouses, as it allows the wood to breathe and does not contain any harmful chemicals. Over time, the wood will weather and develop a natural patina.

2. Water-based paint: 

Water-based paints are non-toxic and safe for birds, as long as they are allowed to dry completely before the birdhouse is used. Look for paints that are labeled as safe for outdoor use.

3. Stain: 

Stains are a good option for birdhouses, as they allow the natural grain of the wood to show through while also providing some protection against the elements. Look for non-toxic, water-based stains that are safe for outdoor use.

4. Linseed oil: 

Linseed oil is a natural oil that can be used to protect and condition wood without harming nesting birds. It should be applied sparingly and allowed to dry completely before the birdhouse is used.

Colors That Attract Birds to Your Birdhouse

The color of a birdhouse does not necessarily attract birds, but certain colors may be more attractive to specific bird species. Here are some tips for choosing the color of a birdhouse:

1. Neutral colors: 

Neutral colors such as natural wood, white, or gray are a good choice for birdhouses because they blend in with the environment and do not attract unwanted attention from predators.

2. Bright colors: 

Brightly colored birdhouses can attract certain bird species, such as bluebirds or purple martins. However, it’s important to research the species of bird that you want to attract and choose a color that is known to be attractive to that species.

3. Avoid dark colors: 

Dark colors such as black or dark green can absorb heat and make the birdhouse too hot for nesting birds, so it’s best to avoid these colors.

4. Camouflage: 

In some cases, a birdhouse can be painted to match the surrounding environment, such as the bark of a tree or the color of a nearby building, to make it blend in and be less noticeable to predators.

Choosing the Right Thickness of Wood for Your Birdhouse

The thickness of birdhouse wood can vary depending on the species of bird that the house is intended for, but a general guideline is to use wood that is at least ¾ inch thick.

This thickness helps provide insulation for the nesting birds and can also make the house more durable and resistant to damage.

For smaller bird species such as wrens or chickadees, wood that is ⅝ inch to ¾ inch thick can be used. 

For larger bird species such as bluebirds or woodpeckers, wood that is 1 inch thick or more may be needed. 

It’s important to research the species of bird that you want to attract and ensure that the dimensions of the birdhouse are appropriate for that species.

Screws or Nails: Which Is Better for Building a Birdhouse?

Both screws and nails can be used for building a birdhouse, but screws are generally considered to be a better option due to their durability and strength. Here are some reasons why screws are often preferred for birdhouses:

1. Durability: 

Screws are stronger and more durable than nails, which means that they are less likely to loosen or become damaged over time.

2. Easy to remove: 

If a repair or modification is needed to the birdhouse, screws can be easily removed without causing damage to the wood.

3. More secure: 

Screws provide a tighter and more secure connection between the pieces of wood than nails, which helps prevent the birdhouse from coming apart.

4. Better for hardwoods: 

Hardwoods such as oak or teak can be difficult to nail without splitting, but screws can be driven into the wood more easily and without damaging it.

What is the ideal size for a birdhouse entrance hole?

The ideal size of the entrance hole depends on the species of bird, but a general guideline is to use a hole size that is appropriate for the bird species you want to attract.

How can I make sure my birdhouse is predator-proof?

Making sure the birdhouse is securely mounted and has no gaps or holes that predators can access is important in making it predator-proof.

What is the best placement for a birdhouse in my garden?

The best placement for a birdhouse is in a quiet area with some shade and protection from wind, rain, and direct sunlight.

How often should I clean out my birdhouse?

It’s recommended to clean out the birdhouse at the end of each nesting season, and remove any old nesting material or debris.

Are there any specific design features that can make a birdhouse more attractive to nesting birds?

Some design features that can make a birdhouse more attractive to nesting birds include ventilation holes, drainage, and perches. The size and shape of the entrance hole and the overall dimensions of the birdhouse should also be appropriate for the species of bird you want to attract.

Building a Safe and Attractive Birdhouse for Your Feathered Friends

Building a birdhouse can be a rewarding and enjoyable project, but it’s important to keep in mind the needs of the birds that will use it. 

Choosing the right materials, dimensions, and placement can make a big difference in attracting and supporting nesting birds.

When building a birdhouse, it’s important to choose a durable, non-toxic wood that is appropriate for outdoor use. Cedar, redwood, and cypress are popular choices, and the thickness of the wood should be appropriate for the species of bird you want to attract.

The entrance hole should also be sized appropriately for the species of bird, and the birdhouse should include ventilation and drainage to prevent moisture buildup.

Once the birdhouse is built, it’s important to place it in a quiet area with some shade and protection from the elements. Regular cleaning and maintenance can also help keep the birdhouse safe and attractive for nesting birds.