Purchasing the right Types of Lumber Construction Material is important for building a home. It not only impacts structural integrity but also plays a key role in the overall look of construction. What type of wood you choose for your structure must be evaluated carefully. You must now be aware of your budget, what a project requires, and what impact it will have on the environment.
Various Types of Lumber Construction materials are popular. This is because they are affordable and have many benefits. However, working with lumber also has its challenges. An expert must have known of all the risks associated with Lumber. As it will help them to plan more effectively. But what lumber material is the best? Read ahead to know!
What are the Constitutes of a Best Lumber Material?
There are various types of lumber, and each has their characteristics. So, no Best Lumber Material fits all. But they are known for their design flexibility, sustainability, and energy efficiency. Apart from that, they are to work with and are durable as well.
Because of their flexibility in design, they provide a variety of patterns to work with. Not only this, but they are cost-effective when compared to other framing materials such as aluminium, cement, or steel. So, what type to choose is the question at hand.
Classification of Types of Lumber Construction Material
Lumber experts classify them into three categories. They are as follows:
1) Softwood
They are known for their durability and fast growth. They usually come from coniferous trees. Acquiring them as raw materials is less expensive than other types of lumber. The following are some common types of Softwood used in construction:
- Firwood
One of the best choices when we talk about to weight ratio. If that ratio is higher than it means the material is stronger. Douglas Fir is the most used type in this category. It is famous for its two features, which are resistance to decay and the ability to withstand excessive humidity.
- Pinewood
When we are talking about the Types of Lumber Construction Material, pine wood is known for its specific shock-resistant abilities. Because of its ability, homeowners use it in the busiest areas of a home. In addition to that, it is also used because of its colour scheme. Pinewood colour can vary from pure white to light brown. Other than being shock resistant, it is also resistant to rot and decay.
But a downside with pine wood is that it is not water resistant. Thus, the cost of applying a sealing agent increases when working with Pinewood.
- Cedar
Mostly used for its aesthetic appeal and pleasant scent. It comes in two kinds: the first is white cedar, and the second is red cedar. Both of these types of lumber construction material are easy to work with because of their straight-grained structure. But the red cedar is stronger when compared to the white, which is why it is preferred by most homeowners.
It is not particularly stronger when compared to other types, but it is favoured for its two main features. The first one is that this type of wood is a natural insect repellent. The second is that, because of its porous nature, it is sound-resistant as well.
2) Hardwood
These types of lumber construction material are denser and stronger than softwood. These originated from deciduous trees. Here are some of the most commonly used types of hardwood in home construction:
- Oakwood
Oakwood is considered one of the best types of lumber construction material because of its structural stability. The reason behind this is that it grows slowly, which results in high wood density. But this also makes it expensive as compared to other materials.
Oakwood is mostly used in framing structures and beams. This is because of its strength and stability. It is also resistant to termites, moisture and sunlight.
- Maple Wood
Known for its eco-friendly features and can also be cleaned very easily. It is also used for its bright appearance. Because of its features, it is used in Homes to give them an aesthetic appeal.
- Mahogany
Providing many features, mahogany is widely applied in home construction because of its variety of features. It is highly resistant to moisture and other environmental changes. It is also very dense, and that makes it insect-resistant as well.
Despite its density, mahogany is easy to work with. It also provides colour options. The only downside of using mahogany is that it is expensive when compared to other types.
DIY or A Professional!
Although DIY has its advantages, one of the top of them is that you will save money. But this won’t be effective and may result in a loss in the long run. By hiring professionals, you will get the best services. Do you want to manage costs, whether you hire labour or do it yourself? Hire SMA Estimating, the best Construction Estimating Company for your next Lumber project. With thorough planning of costs, they will make your project an ultimate success. They will have all the necessary knowledge and equipment. They will know what type of lumber is best suited for your project.
Closing Remarks
There are several kinds of lumber, but you have to choose the right type of Lumber for Construction Material. So, to assure that, go through this article. As it outlines what factors make lumber the best. In addition to that, it discusses in detail some of the most common kinds of lumber and their features as well. Seeking help from a professional cost estimator leads to the best financial outcome of the project. They help to control material, labour and equipment costs and make sure the project is completed within budget.
