Timber

The term ‘timber’ is used to refer to the wood at any stage after the tree has been felled. This can include the raw material, also known as rough timber or the processed material.

This article presents a list of types of timber used in the construction industry, with links to articles providing further information.

Examples of hardwood trees include alder, balsa, beech, hickory, mahogany, maple, oak, teak, and walnut. Examples of softwood trees are cedar, Douglas fir, juniper, pine, redwood, spruce, and yew. Most hardwoods have a higher density than most softwoods. Most softwoods have a lower density than most hardwoods.

Hardwood

Hardwood is primarily used for making high-quality flooring, furniture, decks and other construction for long-term purpose.

Below are some examples:

Bamboo -

While it's not exactly hardwood, most people consider it as such. Bamboo is actually a form a grass and comes in a variety of colors. But, one thing to keep in mind is where you live -- bamboo is not suitable for humid or damp areas. It tends to scratch easily, but can be sanded and refinished.

Maple -

Maple flooring is one of the most popular hardwood flooring choices. Maple has a very subtle grain pattern that works well in both large and small spaces. It's also extremely durable which is great for high-traffic areas. Maple is less porous than other types of wood, which means that if you're looking for a very specific stain, this might not be the type of wood for you as it's harder for it to absorb stains.

Oak -

One of the most popular looks in hardwood floors is oak. It's timeless and and is highly resistant to wear. It comes in a variety of colors so oak truly looks great in any home. And, because of its durability, it's a great option for homeowners who aren't big on area rugs.


Mahogany -

Often picked for its elegance and beauty, mahogany is classic and often improves with age. It's slightly more expensive than other hardwoods but because of its many pros, the value is worth it.


Hickory -

Hickory floors are durable and rustic which is a great combination if you're looking for flooring with a distressed look that can withstand a lot of foot traffic. Many people believe hickory floors go well with every type of decor.

Walnut -

There are different species of walnut hardwood floors. The floors generally have a dark, exotic look, which is versatile and looks great in most homes. It is extremely hard -- it's one of the strongest hardwoods on the market -- great for high-traffic areas with kids and/or pets.

Softwood

Softwoods are frequently used for interior mouldings, the manufacturing of windows, construction framing and generating sheet goods such as plywood and fibreboard.

Below are some examples:

Redwood -

Redwood heartwood provides resistance to decay from fungus and damage from insect attack. The cinnamon-colored heartwood provides decay resistance throughout the lumber, not just on the surface.


Southern Pine -

Southern pine lumber features excellent fastener-holding ability, providing framing components with strong connections. Its inherent strength contributes to long, clear spans that reduce the need for intermediate columns and load-bearing walls. Using today’s design technology, creative roof and ceiling styles are possible using southern pine.


Western Red Cedar -

Western red cedar is pitch and resin-free, which means it’s ideal for accepting and holding a wide range of beautiful finishes including dark stains, shabby chic bleaches, traditional solid colors and naturally beautiful semi-transparents.


Spruce PineFir -

The spruce-pine-fir (SPF) grouping includes species such as balsam fir, red pine, red spruce, black spruce, Engelmann spruce, and lodgepole pine. Lumber manufactured from these species is commonly found in building supply stores throughout the U.S., identified on the grade stamp as either S-P-F or SPFs.


Eastern White Pine

Eastern white pine offers a uniform texture, shapes easily, stays true to form, and holds finishes extremely well.

Hem-Fir

The hem-fir species combination is one of the most important in the western region, second only to the Douglas fir-larch species group for abundance, production volume, strength and versatility.


Ponderosa Pine

Ponderosa pine can be treated for above ground or in-ground contact, and it can be pressure treated for in-ground use without perforating the wood. The waterborne preservatives leave a clean, dry, odorless surface ready to be painted or stained.