A Guide To Wood Types

The human race has always had a close relationship with trees. They have been vital for our very survival, allowing us to make tools and shelter, as well as fuel for fires and even providing us with food in some cases. And that’s before we even mention their role in providing clean air for us to breathe. Without trees, we would not be here.

These days most of us are more aware of the importance of trees. Their role in our continued well being is accepted and appreciated, though we still rely on them for the wood that they supply. Wood is an ideal material, with many uses and applications in our lives especially wooden furniture. Through sustainable management, we can continue to use wood without risking the environment further. We can help by learning more about different wood types and their qualities. The following guide gives some details about a selection of wood types, their characteristics, and uses.

Hard Wood Types vs Soft Wood Types

This sounds simple enough; hardwood is hard, softwood is soft, right? Well, no, actually! The terms ‘hard’ and soft’ are more of a botanical description rather than being an accurate idea of their density and feel of the wood. While it is generally true that most hardwoods are in fact hard, and softwoods tend to be softer, there are several exceptions that we will see further along in the guide.

The basic differences between the two are as follows:

Hardwood –

• Slow-growing
• broad-leaved flowering species
• Deciduous varieties
• Seeds are produced inside a shell (like a fruit or nut)
• Dense grain
• Generally more expensive
• Mostly darker in colour
• Low in sap content
• Close grain
• Heavy in weight and density
• Good resistance to fire

Softwood –

• Fast-growing
• Evergreen – usually from the conifer, fir, and spruce family
• Needles instead of leaves
• Seeds are either uncovered or in a cone
• Less expensive
• Usually lighter in colour
• High in sap content
• Loose grain
• Light in weight and density
• Very poor resistance to fire

These distinctions are general, however, and to find out more we have to take a closer look at each of the wood types in turn.

source : https://www.homesdirect365.co.uk/blog/2020/07/a-guide-to-wood-types/