ON 28 August
By: Natalie McMurdo
WHAT ARE THE DIFFERENCES BETWEEN HARDWOOD AND SOFTWOOD?
The main different between hardwood and softwood is that hardwood trees are typically slower growers and are distinguished by the tree they come from. Hardwood comes from angiosperm trees which are typically deciduous trees and have broad leaves. The most popular Australian hardwood species are Blackbutt, Spotted Gum, Jarrah and Ironbark. Softwood come from gymnosperm trees like Pine trees and White Cypress which have needles that remain evergreen all year round.
HARDWOOD
Hardwood is typically darker in colour than softwood and also has a heavy distinctive grain due to the complex structure. Hardwood has visible pores that transport water and nutrients and it is these structures that give hardwood a heavier and more pronounced grain. Hardwood has a significantly slower growth period. Hardwood is more durable due to the slower growth cycle and complex structure. Hardwood is more expensive to purchase as the trees grow at a slower rate than softwood. Hardwood is most commonly used for flooring, decking, cladding and fencing. It can be used both indoor and outdoor applications. Hardwood outshines softwood when durability and strength are of upmost importance.
SOFTWOOD
Softwood is a material that comes from fast growing evergreen trees. They grow much faster than hardwood. It is this fast growth pattern that make them less dense and therefore less durable as hardwood. Softwood is an affordable option as the timber is more widely available. Softwood is easier to work with as the wood is softer when cutting or sanding. Softwood is a lighter colour than hardwood and as the grain is less pronounced it makes softwood easier to paint or stain. Softwood is most commonly used for fencing, landscaping, framing, decking, joinery, feature walls, doors and windows. Pine is a great option when strength and durability isn’t the focus of your project.
CHOOSING THE RIGHT TIMBER FOR YOUR PROJECTS
Both hardwood and softwood come with their pros and cons. Deciding between the two depends on the needs for your project, such as strength, longevity, appearance, price and ease of use. Understanding these differences will help you make an informed decision, whether you choose hardwood or softwood, both types of timber offer impressive benefits across a wide range of purposes.
21 Timbers stocks an extensive range of timber supplies including hardwood posts, hardwood rails, hardwood sleepers, pine posts, pine rails and pine sleepers. We have four trucks available to deliver timber to Brisbane, Redlands, Logan, Gold Coast, Sunshine Coast, Ipswish and Toowoomba.
Contact the team at 21 Timbers today for all your timber supplies.
