|
Whether you are building a dresser or a bench, your choice of wood makes all the difference. The wrong wood might cause your project to fall apart much quicker than it should. Choosing the right wood ensures longevity and makes it easier to build your design. To help make your decision easier, follow these tips and tricks before heading to the E.L. Morse Lumber yard. - Know the difference between hardwoods and softwoods. Different types of wood are good for different types of projects. While they might be more expensive, hardwoods are more resilient than softwoods. This is because they are derived from deciduous trees and take longer to grow. Oak, beech, teak, and maple are all considered hardwoods, while pine, fir, and cedar are all softwoods as they come from coniferous trees.
- Understand what seasoned wood is. Seasoned wood means that it needed to be dried out after it was cut. This type of wood may still have a high moisture content, causing it to warp or distort until it is dried completely. Some suppliers also carry seasoned wood that has been kiln-dried. This means that the drying process has been accelerated. Buying kiln-dried woods is a great way to avoid the problems that come with seasoned wood.
- Know your treated wood. Treated wood is usually a green or brown color. This is because it has been impregnated with a preservative through a process called tantalizing. While all wood does break down eventually, treated wood has a much longer lifespan. This is because the chemicals used protect the wood from deterioration. Treated wood can come in contact with soil and other elements and thrive.
- There is a difference between rough-sawn wood and planed wood. Once you head to the lumber yard, you’re going to see different types of cuts on different types of woods. They will have different prices depending on their dimensions and how the wood has been trimmed. Rough-sawn wood is going to be closest to the size that it’s quoted. This is because it is measured when it is rough-sawn. Planed lumber, however, may not be the size that it is stated at the yard. This is because wood has been cut on each side to ensure that is smooth.
- Check your lumber source. Ensuring that your lumber comes from a recognized source, like the Forest Stewardship Council, is the best way to support the environment and get the best quality of wood. This regulates the management of forests. Reclaimed lumber is another great wood source. Because this wood already seasoned, it has a lot of character. Make sure that you choose pieces that are usable and that won’t compromise the integrity of your project.
Choosing the right grain, type, and cut of your wood doesn’t have to be difficult. If you are unsure which type of lumber should be used in your project, ask the professionals at E.L. Morse Lumber. These experienced specialists know which type of wood you should pick up. With their help, you’ll be well on your way to finishing the perfect project.
Related Articles -
E.L., Morse, Lumber,
|
