A Look At Your Options In Wood Building Materials For Your Project

Industrial & Manufacturing Blog

Whether you're building a deck, outbuilding, or fence, wood is a good choice for materials. Wood is a classic choice, and it has advantages over metal, vinyl, and other materials when it comes to appearance and performance. There's a large selection in wood building materials. Here's a look at some common types of wood and how they're used.

Softwood 

Common softwood types include cedar, redwood, and pine. Pine is a popular wood to use for building fences and making floor planks. However, softwood is more easily scratched and dented than hardwood, so pine might not be a good choice for all building projects. Pine is often pressure treated to protect it from insect damage. Plus, it's an affordable wood, and that's why it is a popular choice for fencing. Cedar and redwood are also popular for fencing and decks because of their attractive color. Cedar has a distinctive aroma and has a natural ability to ward off insect damage.

Hardwood

Hardwood is a popular choice for flooring because it's so durable. It's also a good choice for furniture and cabinets. Cherry is a hardwood with a rich color that makes it ideal for cabinets and furniture, but other common choices include oak, maple, and walnut. Each type of wood has its unique color and grain pattern that allows the flooring or furniture to match your home's decor. Tropical hardwood is expensive, but it rates high on the hardness scale. If you're choosing wood based on how hard it is for maximum durability, then check the Janka chart that rates woods from the softest to the hardest.

Engineered Wood

Engineered wood is becoming a more popular building material because it can be made to the exact specifications needed to make strong beams and trusses. Engineered wood can be used in home construction and as flooring planks. This wood product is used for siding, fences, window frames, furniture, cabinets, and doors. It can be used in most applications where wood is normally be used. One benefit of engineered wood is that it is made from wood scrap so it keeps sawdust and scraps from mills from going to waste. Plus, engineered wood doesn't expand and contract as much as traditional wood, so engineered wood flooring planks can be placed in a basement.

Since there are many options in wood building materials, you may have difficulty knowing what to choose for your project. Consider price, appearance, and durability when you make your decision so you choose the right type of wood for your purposes. For more information, contact a company like Hillside Lumber.

4 December 2018