Choosing Durable Lumber & Composite Materials for Long-Lasting Residential Exteriors
Choosing Durable Exterior Building Materials
The best exterior products are the ones that look good and continue to perform years later. For contractors and builders, every material choice matters. The lumber, siding, decking, and exterior products you install today are what homeowners will live with tomorrow. Choosing dependable materials helps protect your reputation and create homes built to last with little to no issues. At rk MILES, we help building professionals find quality exterior building materials that are made to balance appearance and durability.
Why Is Material Durability Important for Residential Exteriors?
Most exterior building materials are designed to meet minimum building code requirements, but meeting code and being truly durable are not the same thing. Sure, they may be durable enough to work, but the question is how well they’ll perform, how much maintenance they’ll require, and how long they’ll last before major repairs or replacement become necessary. For example, two siding products might both be approved for residential construction, but one may last 5-10 years before showing significant wear, and another may last 30-50 years with minimal maintenance. The difference often comes down to how the material performs under real-world conditions, such as:
- Moisture exposure
- Freeze-thaw cycles
- UV exposure
- Impact from hail, lawn equipment, or debris
- Insect activity
- Temperature fluctuations
What Types of Lumber Are Best for Outdoor Use?
When selecting long-lasting wood for exterior use, it’s important to consider how the material will handle moisture, temperature changes, and exposure to the elements. These are the most common choices:
Pressure Treated Lumber
Pressure-treated lumber is a common choice for outdoor construction because it has been treated with preservatives that help protect against rot, decay, and insects. It is often used for:
- Deck framing
- Outdoor structures
- Fencing
- Structural applications
- Ground-contact projects
Specialty Treated Wood Options
For projects requiring the authentic look and feel of real wood but needing extra protection against the elements, advanced treatment technologies offer excellent alternatives to traditional lumber.
- Thermally Modified Lumber – Products like ICON® by Timber Trading Group use a precise, chemical-free process involving only heat and pressure. This treatment reduces moisture and organic sugars at a cellular level, changing the wood’s structure to deliver Class 1 durability against rot, decay, and insects. It is exceptionally lightweight and offers outstanding dimensional stability with minimal warping or cupping, making it perfect for premium siding, trim, and decking.
- Organic-Treated Radiata Pine – Brands like LIFESPAN® Solid Select provide high-grade, clear lumber sourced from sustainable radiata pine forests. Instead of harsh metallic chemicals, it is treated to the core with an EPA-approved organic preservative that safeguards against rot, fungal attacks, and termites. Finished with two factory-applied coats of alkyd primer, it yields a defect-free, smooth surface that is non-corrosive to fasteners and comes with a limited lifetime warranty.
Cedar and Other Natural Wood Options
Some homeowners and builders choose naturally durable wood species because of their appearance and ability to perform outdoors. It’s often used for siding, trim, outdoor living areas, and custom details. Cedar is a popular option for exterior projects because it offers:
- Natural resistance to decay
- A distinctive wood grain and appearance
- Stability through seasonal changes
- A timeless look
Specialty Exterior Lumber
Certain premium wood products can add a high-end look, but you have to be careful where you use them. Always consider how much exposure the material will face. IPE and mahogany are often good for exterior projects.
What Are Composite Materials and How Do They Compare to Wood?
Composite materials are engineered products designed to provide durability and consistent performance. Composite materials have become a popular alternative to traditional wood, especially for exterior projects. Made from a combination of materials designed for durability, composites are built to resist some of the common challenges wood can face outdoors.
Wood vs. Composite Materials: Which Is the Better Choice?
Wood and composite materials each have their place. It really depends on the project and the look you want. Wood remains a favorite for its natural character, versatility, and classic appearance. Common uses for wood exterior materials:
- Custom millwork details
- Traditional wood siding
- Exterior trim
- Projects where the natural wood look is preferred
Pressure-treated lumber is a reliable choice for many outdoor applications, including decks, framing, fencing, and other exterior projects and it typically has a lower upfront cost, but it may require more maintenance over time.
- Deck structures
- Framing and areas exposed to moisture
Composite materials, such as composite siding and decking products, are designed for durability and easier maintenance. They help resist moisture, rot, and insects while keeping a consistent look over time. They also usually have a higher initial cost but may save money in the long run because they often require less upkeep. Composite materials are often a great choice for:
- Deck surfaces
- Composite siding materials
- Exterior trim
- Railings
- Areas exposed to moisture
What Should Contractors Consider When Choosing Materials?
Contractors actually have a lot to consider when choosing the right materials for the job. They’ll need to think about:
- How Will the Material Handle the Environment? Exterior products need to handle everything the seasons bring. Moisture, freezing temperatures, humidity, and temperature swings can all affect how materials perform over time.
- What Does the Homeowner Want? Every homeowner has different priorities. Some want the natural look of wood and don’t mind regular maintenance. Others prefer a product that requires less upkeep. Helping homeowners understand those differences makes it easier to recommend materials they’ll feel good about long-term.
- Is the Product Built to Last? Not all products are made the same. Quality materials can make a difference in how an exterior looks and performs years after installation. Working with a knowledgeable supplier helps contractors choose products that meet the demands of the project, not just the minimum requirements.
- How Will the Materials Work Together? A home exterior includes many moving parts. Siding, trim, fasteners, flashing, windows, doors, and other components must work together to create a durable finished product.
Build With Materials That Are Made to Last
Choosing exterior materials is one of the most important decisions in any residential project. The right products help homes look better, perform better, and stay that way for years. At rk MILES, we work with contractors, builders, and homeowners to provide quality lumber, composite products, and exterior building materials backed by knowledgeable support. Need help choosing materials for your next project? Contact us today. We’re here to help you build with confidence.
Joe Miles Appointed Chairperson of the LMC Board
Lumbermens Merchandising Corporation (LMC) has appointed Joe Miles, President of rk MILES, as the new Chairperson of the Board.
Joe has been a member of the LMC Board for six years and brings extensive industry experience to the position. His previous leadership roles include serving as Chair of the Northeastern Retail Lumber Association and President of the VRLDA.
In addition to his work in the industry, Joe is involved in his local community. He has served on the Manchester Select Board and held board and chair positions with Hunter Park and the Friends of Manchester Elementary and Middle Schools. He was named VRLDA Lumber Person of the Year in 2022.
About LMC:
LMC is a member-owned cooperative that has supported independent lumber and building materials dealers across the United States since 1935. Based in Wayne, Pennsylvania, LMC helps its members stay competitive by leveraging collective buying power to secure top-tier products at favorable prices. The organization provides access to a wide range of building materials—including lumber, roofing, siding, tools, windows, and doors—while also offering supply chain support, marketing tools, and business resources.
VRLDA Appoints rk MILES’ Jeremy Baker as President
MANCHESTER CENTER, VT – The Vermont Retail Lumber Dealers Association (VRLDA) appointed Jeremy Baker, rk MILES’ Fleet and Safety Manager to serve as their next President of their Board of Directors at their Annual Meeting on September 22nd.
Baker takes his 2-year term to heart and says his goal as President will be to continue the Board’s focus on workforce development in the building trades. He says he will help support VRLDA’s efforts to be a conduit between state legislators and technical career centers throughout the state, creating an environment that will attract young people to the industry and help keep them here in the state.
“It’s an honor to preside over this board,” Baker stated. “Collectively, we have the best interests of our membership and Vermont in mind. I will acknowledge the good work we have done and build on that in the next 2 years,” he added.
Baker has worked at rk MILES for more than 7 years, where he has been instrumental in creating and instituting employee safety and equipment operation protocols for the company’s 10 locations. In addition to his role as the new President of the Board of Directors for the VRLDA, Baker also serves as Chair of the VRLDA’s Legistlative Committee. He serves as a Director of the Board for the Lumber and Building Materials Foundation and as a Director of the Board for the Northeastern Retail Lumber Dealers Association (NRLA) where he is Chair of the NRLA’s Safety Committee.
About r.k. Miles, Inc.
r.k. Miles, Inc. is a third-generation family business founded in Manchester, VT in 1940. The company supplies lumber, building materials and home goods out of its 10 locations in Vermont and Western Massachusetts.
About VRLDA
Established in 1931, the Vermont Retail Lumber Dealers Association was formed to fulfill a leadership role by identifying challenges, changes, and opportunities that will ensure its members’ business success and future. VRLDA is one of fourteen state and local associations across the Northeast associated with the Northeastern Retail Lumber Association (NRLA).
CHOOSING WOOD WINDOWS
We know there are all sorts of materials on the market for windows and doors today. Vinyl has long been a value option for replacement projects whose budgets don’t allow for custom wood windows, but there’s more to take into account these days when selecting windows that are worth considering- fiberglass, wood, aluminum clad, and mixes of the three are all great additional options for fenestration these days. But, what is it about wood that is SO good?
Marvin explores this topic in their most recent blog post titled YOUR EXTENSIVE GUIDE TO WOOD WINDOWS Learn the reasons why wood windows and doors could be a great choice when you’re looking to buy.
rk MILES DEDICATES NEWLY COMPLETED SHOWROOM TO NOEL CONIGLIO
MANCHESTER CENTER, VT – rk MILES dedicated its newly renovated Doors & Windows showroom in Manchester Center on Wednesday, June 8th to the company’s first Door & Window Showroom Manager Noel Coniglio who passed away in November of 2021.
Coniglio saw the potential to grow the business and created the millwork department in the late ‘80s which he managed until his retirement in 2008. Now the rk MILES Doors & Windows department companywide makes up 20% of the total sales for the company.
“Noel’s role in our business was significant,” said rk MILES Owner and President, Joe Miles as he presented a dedication plaque that now hangs in the showroom. “He identified an opportunity for growth and seized upon it in a very entrepreneurial way,” Miles continued.
“This small remembrance of Noel will keep him and his legacy of good service and pragmatic approach to sales on the forefront of our minds,” Miles added.
Close friends and family were present for the dedication. Noel’s wife Barbara Coniglio and daughter Kathleen Slade, Dave Hunter, a local builder and close family friend, reminisced with long-time rk MILES employees and vendors who worked and trained with him over the years.
“Through his leadership and coaching, Noel took the door and window business of rk MILES from just one person in an office with hardbound catalogs to a stand-alone Door & Window Department and Showroom,” said Pete Duffany, long-serving Doors & Windows lead salesperson at rk MILES. “He taught me everything I needed to know to get started in this business,” Duffany added.
ANATOMY OF A DOOR
We know that all the choices you have to make as a homeowner can be daunting. When renovating or building new, the challenges seem endless – especially when it comes to ordering doors and windows. There are so many pieces and parts to consider, and details mean everything when you are trying to reflect your style and taste in the products you choose for your home. That means orders can be challenging when you have so many options to consider.
Our friends at Marvin have created a Door Parts Glossary for their latest Inspired by Marvin Blog to help homeowners get a better understanding of the makeup of a door. We know this information can help homeowners who are looking to order a new door, but just don’t know all the terms that can help them in the ordering process.
Check out Marvin’s PARTS OF A DOOR: LEARN ABOUT THE ANATOMY OF A DOOR
VRLDA NAMES rk MILES’ SCOTT FLYNN AS LUMBER PERSON OF THE YEAR
VRLDA NAMES rk MILES’ SCOTT FLYNN AS LUMBER PERSON OF THE YEAR
rk MILES is pleased to announce that The Vermont Retail Lumber Dealers Association (VRLDA) has named Scott Flynn, General Manager of rk MILES’ Middlebury location, as their 2021 Lumber Person of the Year. The VRLDA Lumber Person of the Year recognizes an individual who has made significant contributions to the lumber and building materials industry as well as to his or her local community. This year’s award was presented to Scott by Brian Wright, Territory Manager for Trus Joist.
Scott began his career in the lumber industry in the mid-eighties when Poulin Lumber opened a store in his hometown of Derby, VT. “I started running forklifts and shucking lumber in the yard, then moved to driving, dispatching and finally I moved into inside sales,” he says. With a short stint running his own custom wood products business, Scott returned to Poulin and rose the ranks as an outside salesperson, Assistant Manager, Manager, then ultimately as General Manager of that company’s location in Hardwick, VT.
Scott joined the rk MILES team in 2016 as General Manager of its Middlebury location. Since then, he has helped support the company with its expansions in 2017 and again in 2020 and has been instrumental in implementing a dispatch and delivery system at most of the rk MILES locations in Vermont and Western Massachusetts.
He spent a decade on the VRLDA board of directors, including a term as President from 2015-17 and has also served on the Northeaster Retail Lumber Association’s (NRLA) Board of Directors and Convention Committee.
“If you get a chance to participate or serve on a board in your industry, do so,” he advises. “The networking will only empower you and bring you to new levels,” he adds.
Scott is the fifth rk MILES employee to win this distinguished award.
Past rk MILES Lumberperson of the Year Award Recipients:
1992 Dick Miles
2012 Steve Churco
2016 Joe Miles
2019 Brenda Beanland
Latest news from Marvin
As we spend more and more time indoors, it is more important now than ever to allow natural light and fresh air into our spaces. By adding doors, windows, and even skylights to our space’s design we can offset the ill-effects of the amount of time we spend indoors. With the launching of several new products this year, our friends at Marvin took time to explore the benefits of natural light on our overall well-being in their recent Inspired by Marvin Blog.
Marvin’s new products address the demands of our times, like their Ultimate Swinging Door that has the thinner styles and rails for optimum views, their stylish and innovative Sky Cove – think glassed-in cube meets window seat with views of the sky above and the ground below, and their all-new Awaken – Marvin’s take on the skylight of the future.
Check out their blog here to learn more about their new products and how details can make a positive impact, not just on the design of your space, but also on your overall health.
Pressure Treated Wood: Choosing the right product
How to properly choose treated wood.
Click on Image to enlarge.
GROUND CONTACT
Ground Contact treated wood should be chosen for parts of your project that are:
• in ground or in contact with the ground
• in contact with debris, leaves or vegetation
• in fresh water
• exposed to daily wetting from sprinklers or other sources of moisture
• in contact with old wood that may be partially decayed
• posts supporting decks and fences (in ground or concrete)
• posts supporting fresh water docks
• all posts when secured by elevated post bases to concrete piers
• all joists and beams when critical and difficult to replace
• stair stringers that sit on the ground or on concrete on the ground
• low retaining walls, planter boxes, and understructure for walkways
• typical Above Ground uses in tropical climates
• material installed over water if it will be regularly wetted by waves and wakes
• less than 6” above ground and supported by permeable building materials
HEAVY DUTY GROUND CONTACT
Heavy Duty Ground Contact treated wood should be used for:
• posts supporting houses, garages, sunrooms, barns, or other permanent structures (in ground, concrete, or fresh water)
• saltwater splash
ABOVE GROUND
Wood treated for Above Ground is intended for parts of your project that meet all of the following criteria:
• is not on or in contact with the ground
AND
• is expected to readily dry out between times it gets wet
AND
• not located in tropical areas
Some components that are physically above ground still require Ground Contact.
See Ground Contact description to the left. In any of the situations listed there, wood treated for Ground Contact applications must be used even if the members are used in physically above-the-ground applications.
Above Ground applications include:
• deck boards, rails, spindles, lattice, benches, and step treads
• fence boards*
• outdoor furniture, such as Adirondack chairs and picnic tables used on a deck or other well-drained surface
*Fencing should not be in contact with the ground, debris, or vegetation. There should be adequate spacing under the fence boards to ensure airflow and drying.
NOTE: PLEASE SEE COUNTER SALES FOR REQUIRED END SEALING PRODUCTS.
The warranty requires surfaces that have been cut or trimmed and other holes or damage should be treated with a wood preservative end-cut solution in accordance with the label’s directions. Acceptable wood preservatives include Outlast® Q8 Log Oil or other products containing a minimum of 0.675% copper as oxine copper (copper-8 or copper-8-quinolinolate) or 1% copper as copper naphthalene.
REMEMBER, IF YOUR PROJECT IS IN CONTACT WITH THE GROUND OR FRESH WATER OR BUILT IN A MANNER THAT DOES NOT ALLOW THE WOOD TO EASILY DRY, GROUND CONTACT TREATED WOOD MUST BE USED.
› Please click HERE to download the flyer.
› Please click HERE for In-Stock Pressure Treated by Use Code.
*The International Code Council Evaluation Service (ICC-ES) standards that require that pressure-treated wood used in many physically above-ground applications be treated to Ground Contact requirements.
rk MILES Awarded Multi Gen Family Business Distinction
Left to right, Francis, Joe, Sophie, Christine and Henry.
MANCHESTER CENTER, VT – r.k. Miles, Inc., a third-generation, family-owned business with locations in Vermont and Massachusetts, was awarded the 2020 UVM Grossman School of Business Multi-Generation Family Business Award on Friday, October 2nd during a virtual ceremony.
The University of Vermont’s Grossman School of Business recognizes and celebrates first and later generational family-owned businesses that have demonstrated a commitment to creating sustainable business through leadership and innovation.
Panelist Judge Evan Langfeldt, CEO of South Burlington-based O’Brien Brothers and last year’s recipient of the UVM Vermont Legacy Family Enterprise Awards, presented rk MILES with this year’s award on behalf of his fellow judges.
“2020 marks the 80th Anniversary of this iconic Vermont company representing a wonderful story of how each generation has contributed to its growing legacy of success,” Langfeldt explained.
“Our judging panel found [rk MILES] impressive on a variety of fronts – thoughtful governance, financial growth and success, depth of community contributions and proactive development of the next generation of leaders to name a few,” Langfeldt said. “While all of the nominated business had impressive track records and compelling stories, rk MILES stood out to me personally, not just for their sustained success over generations in a difficult industry, but because they have been an integral project partner and material supplier to our company, O’Brien Brothers, on our ongoing project Hillside at O’Brien Farm.
I know firsthand, the quality of customer service, materials and goods they provide, and the caliber of the people they employ. They are responsive, proactive and their employees seem to genuinely enjoy working for the company and take pride in it. That means something and it translates to the quality of service they provide,” he added.
rk Miles joins the ranks of just 33 other businesses to be presented with such a distinguished award over the past nine years by the School.
“We are incredibly honored to have been nominated and chosen as this year’s recipient of UVM’s Grossman School of Business Multi-Generation Family Business Award,” said Joe Miles, President and third-generation owner of rk MILES. “This recognition is due in no small part, to the team behind the name. As generations before me set the foundation for our business, we understand that success doesn’t always come from grand strategies, but rather from the small individual contributions by our staff that happen day in and day out – acknowledging our customers by name and going the extra mile to make sure they get what they came for – that’s what sets us apart and makes rk MILES what it is today,” he added.
……
About rk MILES
Celebrating its 80th year, r.k. Miles, Inc. is a third-generation family business founded in Manchester, VT. The company supplies lumber, building materials and home goods to communities in Vermont and Western Massachusetts. Fair business practices, customer loyalty and community involvement have been the cornerstone of the company’s success. With the acquisition of Allen Lumber in November of 2020. r.k. Miles, Inc. will have a total of 10 locations.
