Lumber is one of the most important materials in the construction business. However, when it comes to selecting the right lumber, there are hundreds of different types that you could choose from. Which type should you choose? How do you make sure it’s a good one? How many lumber types are there?
By understanding a few of the most popular options, you’ll be able to make an informed decision, and you’ll be able to figure out which among the different lumber materials is the right pick for your project.
Understanding Lumber
Lumber is a term used in the building trade to refer to large pieces of wood that are used in interior and exterior construction. Any wood with a thickness of one inch or greater can be classified as lumber.
Lumber is an essential part of home building and repairs, so it’s important to understand the different types available. Each material has its unique properties. The type of wood you choose for your project will depend on the function it needs to serve to get the job done correctly.
Types of Lumber
Different types of lumber mean different types of wood. And all of them have their particular properties and different applications. Lumber types are usually categorized into two: Hardwoods and Softwoods.
Hardwoods:
- Oak: Oakwood is the most commonly used wood for making traditional furniture and flooring. It is widely used due to its durability and high-quality appearance. This popular wood comes in a variety of shades.
- Maple: Maple wood is extremely durable, looks fantastic, and stains well. It is popular for high-quality furniture, flooring, cabinets, and kitchen items. Because of its durability and resistance, maple is used as flooring for bowling alleys and bowling pins.
- Cherry: Also called Black cherry and American cherry. The heartwood color can range from reddish-brown to deep red or lighter reddish-brown. When exposed to the sun, the wood can turn a mahogany color. The wood is generally robust, and the heartwood is resistant to decay. Still, the sapwood is susceptible to attack by the common furniture beetle.
Softwoods:
- Douglas Fir: This softwood can be used for framing, roofing, and siding. It’s resistant to rot, fungal decay, and insect damage, making it perfect for outdoor projects like decks or play structures.
- Pine: this wood has good structural properties but is less resistant to decay and insects than Douglas Fir. It’s a good choice for indoor projects like cabinets or furniture.
- Cedar: Unlike other types of wood, cedar is naturally resistant to decay, rot, and insects. This makes it perfect for outdoor applications like fencing or decking.
Getting The Best Lumber For Your Project
Now that you know about the different types of lumber, you’ll be able to select the right type of wood for your specific project, but knowing which wood to use is only half of the process, making sure you find the right lumber company in Arkansas that provides the best quality material is as important.
Ridout Lumber’s are the best lumber material suppliers in Jonesboro, AR. Providing top-notch lumber material for all your construction needs. Reach out now to learn more.