Lumber is a widely used material in the construction industry. It is valued for its strength, strong texture, and durability. It is used in framing houses and making various furniture such as tables, benches, chairs, cabinets, etc. Different types of lumber are used for various purposes. Each type has unique features, uses, and benefits making them suited for various projects.
In this article, we’ll discuss 4 common types of lumber and their uses. We’ll discuss their specific features, benefits, and how they are used in different items. It is essential to understand each type to choose the best according to your project.
Understanding Lumber
Lumber is wood that has been cut and processed into beams and planks, making it ready to use for construction. It’s a key construction material used in many elements of a house, such as the framing, floors, walls, and roof. Lumber is available in different types, consisting of softwood like pine or hardwood like oak.
Softwood is usually used for construction as it’s low-priced and easy to work with. Lumber also comes in specific sizes, such as 2×4 or 2×6, depending on where it will be used. It’s strong, durable, and a natural preference for building homes and different structures.
Lumber Costs
The cost of lumber varies with location. In big cities like California or Texas, the lumber costs would be high because of higher living expenses. In small states like Dakota, living expenses are lower, so you would get lumber at a low cost. But in faraway cities, the transportation fee to deliver lumber would be higher because of the long distance from the city.
However, the average cost of lumber in the US is $2 to $8 per board foot. The delivery charges would depend on the location and distance from the site.
Types of Lumber
Lumber comes from two different types of wood. Softwood and Hardwood. All the other types of lumber are processed under the category of softwood and hardwood.
Softwood Lumber
Softwood lumber is made of wood that comes from coniferous trees. These are the trees that have needles and produce cones. Trees that produce softwood include pine, cedar, and hemlock. This wood is typically lightweight and easy to use. It is used in framing, flooring, and making furniture. Softwood can be cut and shaped quickly, which helps speed up construction.
Hardwood Lumber
Hardwood lumber comes from deciduous trees, which lose their leaves in the fall. These trees include oak, ash, beech, and walnut. Hardwood is known for its strong and sturdy characteristics that make it a good option for construction. It is ideal for furniture, cabinets, doors, etc. Hardwood is generally more expensive than softwood. It is difficult to work with hardwood but it stays for a long time.
4 Popular Types of Lumber
Here are 4 popular types of lumber that are widely used for various purposes such as construction, making furniture, cabinets, flooring, etc.
Pinewood
Pinewood lumber is a popular type of softwood. It is known for its affordability and versatility. It’s commonly used in construction and furniture-making. Pine is lightweight, easy to work with, and easily available.
Its light color and smooth grain also make it ideal for interior projects like cabinetry and flooring. Pinewood does not decay and stays for a long time. It is suitable for both indoor and outdoor use.
Common uses of pinewood are:
- Making furniture like tables, chairs, and shelves.
- To make kitchen cabinets and storage rooms for kitchens.
- Can be used in home flooring.
- Use in framing houses, walls, and ceilings.
Cedarwood
Cedarwood lumber is a durable softwood. It naturally resists rot, insects, and moisture. It is the best wood for outdoor structures. It is widely used for outdoor furniture such as decks, fences, and garden furniture. Its pleasant aroma and attractive red color also make it popular for interior use, especially for closets and chests.
Cedar is low-maintenance and sustainable. It is ideal for projects that require durable, weather-resistant lumber.
Common uses of cedarwood lumber are:
- Making outdoor furniture, such as garden chairs, tables, and benches.
- Uses in making patios, decks, and fencing.
- For making closet linings.
Oak wood
Oakwood is a hardwood known for its strength and durability. It is commonly used in high-quality furniture, flooring, and cabinetry. It has a beautiful, prominent grain that adds a look to any piece.
Oak is available in both red and white colors. Oakwood’s durability and rich appearance make it a preferred choice for long-lasting furniture and structural uses.
Common uses of oak wood lumber are:
- High-quality furniture like cabinets, desks, and dining tables.
- Used in home flooring.
- Uses in making barrels for wines.
- Used in the construction of solid doors and window frames
Ashwood
Ashwood is a durable hardwood known for its flexibility. It is widely used because it can be bent and shaped in any form. It’s commonly used in furniture, flooring, and sports equipment like baseball bats. Ash has a light color and straight grain that resembles oak, but it’s usually more affordable. Ashwood’s strength and smooth grain make it easy to work with and ideal for detailed woodworking projects.
Common uses include:
- Furniture like chairs, tables, and cabinets,
- Used to make sports equipment like baseball bats and hockey sticks.
- Used for making sturdy tool handles, like those for hammers and axes.
Conclusion
Lumber is known for its strength, strong texture, and durability making it a good option in construction projects. It is used in framing houses and making various furniture such as tables, chairs, cabinets, etc.
Different types of lumber are used for various purposes. Each type has unique features, uses, and benefits making them suited for various projects. It is important to understand the features of each type of lumber to choose the best according to your project needs.
