If you’re thinking about adding a wood patio cover to your backyard, there’s one mistake you absolutely don’t want to make: using boxed-heart lumber.
It might not sound like a big deal, but the type of wood you use makes a massive difference in how long your patio cover will last. At Cascade Fence and Deck, we use exclusively Free of Heart (FOHC) lumber—and for good reason.
What Is Free of Heart Lumber?
“Free of Heart” lumber, or FOHC, is wood that’s sawn to exclude the center of the tree, also known as the heart or “bullseye.” That central core might seem solid, but it’s actually the most unstable part of the board.
The heartwood dries at a different rate than the outer layers, creating internal stress that leads to cracking (called checking), twisting, and warping. FOHC lumber avoids this by cutting around the heart—leaving only the most stable, reliable part of the wood.
Why We Only Use FOHC for Patio Covers
Your patio cover has a tough job. It has to hold up to sun, wind, rain, and big temperature swings all year, every year. We’ve seen it over and over again: structures built with boxed-heart lumber don’t hold up. They split down the center, twist out of shape, or start to rot from the inside out.
Here’s how FOHC lumber helps us build better:
More Strength and Stability
FOHC wood stays straighter and holds its shape better over time. It’s structurally sound and resists warping, even in extreme weather.Fewer Cracks and Splits
Without the unstable heart center, there’s far less risk of checking—those deep, ugly cracks that can open up in your beams.Cleaner Appearance
FOHC beams look smoother and more consistent. That matters in an exposed structure like a patio cover.Longer Life Span
Patio covers built with FOHC lumber can last 10 to 15 years longer than those made with standard boxed-heart wood.
The Problem With Boxed-Heart Lumber
Boxed-heart lumber may be cheaper, but it’s a gamble. The center of the board is prone to splitting, and once it cracks, moisture and decay get inside. That leads to rot from the inside out.
We’ve seen posts rot out in just a few years, even when they were pressure-treated. Why? Because the checking in the heart center opened the wood up to the elements.
That’s why we never cut corners. We start with the right material from day one.
Built the Right Way
At Cascade, we’re serious about durability. You’re investing in your home, and we want you to enjoy your patio cover for decades, not just a few seasons. That’s why every wood patio cover we build uses FOHC Douglas Fir, known for its strength, beauty, and long-term performance.
You might not notice the difference today. But years down the road, when your beams are still straight, crack-free, and standing strong, you will.