What Type Of Lumber Should I Use For My Home Project?
If you are remodeling or constructing a new home, deck, or anything involving wood, you might be wondering what kind of lumber you should use. Depending on your project, certain varieties will suit your needs better than others. Here's what to consider and why:
Southern Pine
If your budget allows, Southern Pine is a fantastic choice for multiple reasons. It generally contains tight knots and is free of holes, leading to higher strength and resistance to wear. Its sheathing is applicable to other applications without producing excess waste and its appearance is top quality. For these reasons, many people choose to use it in their home as well as on other structures.
Redwood Lumber
Redwood can come in several quality levels, ranging from rougher finishes to fine finishes such as heartwood and sapwood. Heartwood, for example, has natural protection against termites and decay and thus can maintain contact with the ground. Sapwood is best used for mid-level work (connecting ground pieces with higher pieces), as it does not stand up well to the ground. Finally, structural needs can be met with architectural redwood, which is the strongest of them all. If you simply need a small deck, you might consider saving on the cost and obtaining garden redwood.
Western Lumber
This type of lumber is easy to work with. Nailing is a breeze, and its strength means it can endure multidimensional structures. Consisting of over 14 different species of Western softwood (such as Douglas fir), it boasts a great appearance, utility for general purposes, and the designation as a radius-edged patio decking grade. For framing and deck projects, this is an excellent choice.
Pine Shelving Lumber
Identified by its 1 inch thickness and various lengths and widths, this lumber is typically sold for consumer applications in a 4-foot by 6-foot size. Commonly referred to as garage shelving, it can be used to construct sturdy garages and small attached structures without sacrificing your budget.
Treated Lumber
Treated lumber goes through a process that makes it resistant to fungus, termites, and weather hazards. Preservatives, made from chemicals such as copper, seep deep into the wood's cells and create a kind of coating. In turn, this coating acts to prevent water from being completely absorbed and rotting the wood. For decks, barns, and extension rooms, this lumber stands up well.
Finding the right kind of lumber can be confusing. If you're building a new project, you'll want to conduct extensive research, but knowing the basics is the first step. With this quick guide, you should be well on your way to starting your exciting new project. Once you know which type of lumber to use for your project, head on over to a lumber distributor, such as Hanford Lumber Ltd.