Black Locust Lumber provides the perfect solution whether for a public space, wetland, or environmentally sensitive location. Our boardwalk lumber endures heavy foot traffic, harsh weather, and environmental impacts. Trust the strength and reliability of our products to create lasting pathways that blend with their natural surroundings.
Black Locust is one of the most durable, naturally rot-resistant hardwoods on the market — making it a standout material for boardwalks in parks, wetlands, waterfronts, and high-traffic pedestrian zones. We manufacture our boardwalk planks using true 2" x 6" Black Locust lumber, available in standard lengths of 3', 4', and 6'. Longer lengths or specific structural dimensions (like 2x8) can be produced for custom projects requiring heavier load capacity or wider spans.
Whether you're designing a 6-foot-wide walking path, a multi-use trail, or coastal boardwalk, our material meets both ADA guidelines and modern performance standards. Face-screwing with stainless steel fasteners is the industry standard for long-term stability, especially in marine or wetland environments — and Black Locust handles these conditions without the need for any chemical treatment. Its dense grain, exceptional hardness, and natural resistance to decay make it the smart, sustainable alternative to pressure-treated pine and tropical hardwoods like Ipe.
Black locust is one of the most durable hardwoods native to North America, valued for its exceptional natural resistance to rot, decay, and insect attack. This performance comes from its dense grain structure and high concentration of natural extractives, allowing it to outperform many treated and tropical hardwoods without chemical modification. With a Janka hardness comparable to premium exotics and excellent dimensional stability, black locust delivers long-term performance in demanding exterior applications.
years durability
Black Locust is one of the most durable hardwoods in North America, known for its exceptional natural resistance to rot, decay, and insect damage. Unlike pressure-treated lumber, this performance comes entirely from the wood itself—no chemical treatments required. With a Class 1 durability rating, Black Locust is in the highest category for decay resistance, making it an ideal choice for exterior applications where long-term performance is critical.
In addition to its durability, Black Locust offers outstanding fire performance. The material achieves a Class A fire rating, the highest level available for building materials, providing an added layer of safety in both residential and commercial environments. This combination of fire resistance and structural hardness makes it a trusted solution for demanding applications such as decking, siding, boardwalks, and public-use spaces.
As a domestic hardwood species, Black Locust presents a compelling alternative to tropical imports like Ipe and Teak. It is sustainably sourced within North America, reducing environmental impact while supporting local forestry and manufacturing. With a lifespan exceeding 50 years in exterior conditions, Black Locust delivers long-term value through durability, minimal maintenance, and a completely chemical-free composition that naturally weathers to a beautiful silver-gray patina over time.
Create durable pathways in public parks, nature reserves, and urban areas with our black locust boardwalk lumber. Its strength and weather resistance ensure long-lasting walkways for heavy foot traffic.
Our black locust lumber is perfect for constructing boardwalks in wetlands and other sensitive environments due to its natural resistance to moisture and decay. This ensures a stable structure for pedestrian access and environmental preservation.
Black locust boardwalk lumber offers an eco-friendly solution for low-impact areas. Its sustainable sourcing and natural durability make it an excellent choice for creating pathways that respect and protect the ecosystem.
A Domestic, Responsible Choice
All of our Black Locust is sourced from the Appalachian region of the United States, working directly with local landowners and forestry networks. This regional supply chain reduces transportation impact while supporting responsible land management practices. Black Locust is a naturally regenerative species, making it a reliable, renewable resource for long-term exterior applications.
Built on Local Craft & Forestry Practices
We partner closely with local sawmills, craftsmen, and the Amish community throughout Pennsylvania to produce our material. This hands-on, regional approach allows us to maintain quality while supporting rural economies and traditional woodworking expertise. Every piece is processed with a focus on efficiency, minimizing waste and maximizing the value of each log.
A Smarter Alternative to Tropical & Modified Materials
Black Locust offers a high-performance, domestic alternative to tropical hardwoods and heavily modified wood products. Instead of relying on imported species shipped across the globe—or energy-intensive processes like thermal modification or synthetic composites—Black Locust delivers natural durability, strength, and longevity straight from the source. Choosing Black Locust supports a more localized, lower-impact supply chain while delivering the long-term performance expected from premium exterior materials, without the need for chemical treatments or intensive processing.
The Mattapoisett Bogs Wetland Restoration Project, located in Mattapoisett, Massachusetts, represents a significant ecological restoration effort completed in 2024.
Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens in Pittsburgh is a testament to sustainable architecture and environmental stewardship. Designed by IKM Architecture and landscaped by Andropogon Associates, this iconic landmark achieved numerous certifications including The Living Building Challenge, LEED Platinum, WELL Building Platinum, Zero Energy Certification, SITES Platinum, Fitwel 3 Star, and BREEAM Outstanding In-Use.
The BodyHoliday Spa in St. Lucia, crafted with precision and elegance, is an idyllic sanctuary that promotes wellness and rejuvenation.
Meta Headquarters, nestled in Menlo Park, California, represents a revolutionary corporate campus completed in 2018. Designed by the renowned architect Frank Gehry, this state-of-the-art project embodies cutting-edge design and sustainability. A standout feature is the elevated boardwalk, crafted from eco-friendly materials provided by Black Locust Lumber, highlighting the company's commitment to environmental responsibility.
The George W. Bush Presidential Center, located in Dallas, Texas, was completed in 2009 and features Black Locust Lumber's boardwalks. The project aimed to create a sustainable and aesthetically pleasing landscape, with boardwalks providing functional and durable pathways throughout the center's grounds.
The Coney Island Boardwalk in Brooklyn, New York, is an iconic symbol of seaside leisure and community heritage. Managed by New York City Parks, this boardwalk, completed in 2016, is constructed using durable and visually appealing Black Locust Lumber.
Black Locust Lumber provided decking and boardwalk solutions for Campus Plaza in Irvine, California. Designed by Robinson Hill and constructed by Commercial Builders, Inc., this project emphasizes our commitment to delivering durable and sustainable products that enhance commercial spaces.
Discover Brookside Gardens, a serene retreat nestled in Wheaton, Maryland, USA, is renowned for its picturesque boardwalk crafted from Black Locust Lumber. Developed in collaboration with landscape architect AECOM, this project stands as a testament to sustainable landscaping and innovative urban design.
Shady Side Academy's McIlroy Science and Innovation Center in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, is a hub of educational excellence and sustainable design.
DeForest Park and Wetlands in Long Beach, California, represents a harmonious blend of natural preservation and community engagement.
Haviland Mill Park, located in Clarksville, Maryland, features an elevated boardwalk completed between 2021 and 2022.
The West Point Foundry and Observation Tower, located in Cold Spring, New York, is a remarkable project completed in 2020.
The Queens Botanical Garden Visitor Administration Center, designed by BKSK Architects / LLP in collaboration with Atelier Dreiseitl, exemplifies sustainable architecture and environmental stewardship.
The Audubon Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary in Naples, Florida, is a pristine natural habitat showcasing a unique elevated boardwalk crafted with precision by Black Locust Lumber.
FoxField in Maryland exemplifies a sensitive approach to wetland preservation and public access.
The NY Botanical Gardens in the Bronx, New York, showcases a harmonious blend of nature and architecture, featuring boardwalks and site furnishings provided by Black Locust Lumber. Designed by Hugh Hardy and landscape architecture by Sheila A Brady - Oehme, van Sweden & Associates, this project is a testament to sustainable design principles and environmental stewardship.
Wingfield Pines, nestled in the heart of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, is a serene natural reserve enhanced by a meticulously crafted boardwalk provided by Black Locust Lumber.Designed with a vision for sustainability and accessibility, this project integrates seamlessly into its environment, offering visitors a tranquil retreat. Civil & Environmental Consultants Inc, in collaboration with Brian K. Shaffer - EXUrban planning, orchestrated the landscape design, ensuring harmony between nature and infrastructure. The boardwalk from Black Locust serves as a durable and eco-friendly pathway, enriching the visitor experience while preserving the park's ecological integrity.
The WMS Boathouse at Clark Park, designed by Studio Gang Architect and completed in 2013, features a dynamic structure that enhances the recreational offerings along the Chicago River. The boathouse includes facilities for rowing and community events, integrating a sustainable design with the use of Black Locust Lumber’s boardwalks. These durable boardwalks provide a functional and aesthetic solution, aligning with the project's commitment to environmental sustainability and community engagement. Founded and led by Jeanne Gang, Studio Gang is an architecture and urban design practice based in Chicago, New York City, San Francisco, and Paris, making it a global firm with a strong international presence. One of the main approaches of the studio is using design as a medium to connect people to each other, their communities, and the environment.
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The Brockport NY Loop Pedestrian Bridge showcases Black Locust wood for both the bridge deck and handrails, offering exceptional durability, natural beauty, and sustainability in a high-traffic public space designed to last for generations.
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Award-Winning, Building Of The Year 2020 by ArchDaily, Ravine House, with sustainable wood material choice: Black Locust Lumber
Award-Winning, Building Of The Year 2020 by ArchDaily, Ravine House, with sustainable wood material choice: Black Locust Lumber
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