What to Know About Sourcing Lumber for Construction Projects
Choosing the right lumber for your next construction project can feel overwhelming, particularly if you’re not well-versed in the world of lumber. There are so many types, grades, and prices to choose from that it can be difficult to know which to pick.
Different types of wood are used for different projects, and wood also needs to meet certain criteria in order to provide the best results. Luckily, KBS Companies has a lumberyard dedicated to providing you with the best lumber in Southeastern Minnesota.
We’re ready to help you decide which lumber is best for your project!
What Exactly Is Lumber?
Lumber is the term used to describe types of wood used for construction. It is used for buildings and furniture, though most people commonly associate lumber with home construction since it provides structural support. Lumber is also used in constructing cabinets, doors, and other fixtures in a home.
There are different shapes and sizes of lumber to choose from as well. When choosing lumber, it’s important to consider the weight it has to bear, which will also help you determine the size it needs to be.
Two Different Types of Lumber
Not all wood is the same, and choosing the right lumber for your project is important. Hardwood and softwood are the two types of lumber, each with different characteristics that make them better suited for different projects.
Both types of wood come in dimensional sizes – typically, a rough pine board measures about three inches thick by twelve inches wide. This will vary depending on the number of knots.
Softwood
Softwood is less dense and more flexible than hardwood. You can use a basic handsaw to cut a piece of softwood.
Softwood typically comes from trees that grow quickly, such as firs, pines, spruces, cedars, redwoods, and cypresses. Softwood is usually cheaper than hardwood and is more brittle.
Hardwood
Hardwood is much denser than softwood, which makes it a better option for bearing heavy loads, like flooring.
Choosing the Right Lumber for a Project
Now that you know the difference between hardwood and softwood, it's time to determine which kind of lumber you need for your project. One thing to consider is how the lumber is cut. If you need something in manageable lengths, you’ll be better off choosing softwood as it can be cut easily.
Hardwood usually needs a power saw to cut. However, you also need to consider the weight capacity. Hardwood holds up better under heavy loads than softwood.
Price is also a consideration since softwood is the cheaper option. With softwood, you want to ensure it’s dried out and kiln-dried before using it on a project.
What is the Lumber Grading System?
The lumber grading system is a set of standards used to classify the quality and performance of an individual piece of lumber. Ranges are assigned for specific grade names, which are driven by species, size, moisture content, and other features.
A grading certificate will include all these criteria. Grading systems have been established around the world to help make the lumber-buying process a little easier.
There are two types of grading: select and common. Select-grade lumber is higher quality, more expensive, and can have more knots, while common-grade lumber has fewer knots, but it's a lower-quality piece that needs to be stained or painted before use.
Need More Help? Consult a Designer from KBS Companies
If you’re choosing lumber for the first time, don’t hesitate to contact a designer from KBS Companies to help you make the best decisions. Our designers on staff can help answer any of your questions and can help you find the best solution for your project.
When you’re ready to purchase your lumber, contact KBS Companies at 507-534-3855 or send us a message on our contact page today!