Softwood is a type of lumber that is produced from coniferous trees. Coniferous trees are trees that have needles and cones, such as evergreen species of trees. Examples of the softwood species of trees include redwood, pine, spruce, fir and hemlock. The main source of softwood lumber is spruce, fir and pine. The lumber is sawed from the selected tree and it remains rough until it has been planed to the necessary finished dimension.
Different softwood lumber species are capable of varying in how they resist weather as well as decay. You should select your softwood lumber species based on the job that you are dealing with. Some softwood lumber varieties are better suited for different purposes, where some softwood varieties are good for building and construction while other forms are better for fencing, boxes and crates for example. Here is a look at some of the varieties of softwood and their unique characteristics.
- Pine: The characteristics of this type of wood include a uniform smooth texture, resistance to warping and that it works well with finishing. The most common uses for this type of softwood lumber include house construction, cabinet making, furniture making, millwork and molding.
- Hemlock: The characteristics of this type of wood include that it is lightweight, machines very well, is generally resistant to decay. The most common uses for this type of softwood lumber include framing lumber, doors, sub flooring, paneling, crates and boxes.
- Fir: The characteristics of this type of wood include that it is worked easily, finishes moderately well and resists moisture as well as decay relatively well. The most common uses for this type of softwood lumber include door and window framing, plywood veneers, millwork, trim for the interior.
- Redwood: The characteristics of this type of wood include that it is lightweight, that it is easy to work with, that it has a low structural strength, that it resists decay well. The most common uses for this type of softwood lumber include outdoor furniture and fencing, siding and paneling, deck surfaces.
- Spruce: The characteristics of this type of wood include that it is strong and hard, that it resists decay well. The most common uses for this type of softwood lumber include boxes, ladders, crates and general millwork.
- Eastern Cedar: The characteristics of this type of wood include color variations, high decay resistance, pungent odor and small boards. The most common uses for this type of softwood lumber are furniture, posts, chests, novelties and closet linings.
- Western Cedar: The characteristics of this type of wood include that it is lightweight, has a high resistance for decay, uniform texture, is easy to work with and has a straight grain. The most common uses for this type of softwood lumber are for siding, shakes, shingles, outdoor patios, boxes and decks.
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This is a very helpful article detailing the various types of softwood and how appropriate they are for differentmillwork projects. Who knew Eastern Cedar has a high decay resistance? Thank you for sharing all of this helpful information!
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