Hardwood timber

Types of hardwood timber

Hardwood timber comes from deciduous trees, which are trees that shed their leaves during winter. These trees are usually slower to grow than softwood trees. Timber from hardwood trees is generally denser and stronger than softwoods. However, this is not a rule set in stone as there are exceptions. For example, the balsa tree produces a hardwood that is very lightweight and soft.

Hardwood timber is classified into two categories: tropical and non-tropical hardwoods. Non-tropical hardwoods are further classified into the following groups:

• Redwood: As the name suggests, redwood is a reddish-brown timber known for its beauty and durability. It is primarily found on the Pacific coast of the United States and is a popular choice for outdoor furniture and structures due to its natural resistance to decay and insects.
• Cedar: Cedar timber is obtained from several species of trees, including aromatic, eastern, and western red cedar. It has a distinct aromatic scent that helps repel insects and is commonly used in the construction of closets, chests, and outdoor spaces like decks and saunas.
• Oak: There are two main types of oak timber, white and red. White oak is known for its strength, durability, and resistance to moisture, making it a popular choice for furniture, flooring, and cabinetry. Red oak, on the other hand, is appreciated for its warm tone and pronounced grain pattern. It is commonly used in furniture and flooring.
• Mahogany: Mahogany timber is known for its rich, reddish-brown color and beautiful grain. It is commonly used in high-quality furniture, cabinetry, and musical instruments. There are several types of mahogany, including African and Honduras mahogany.
• Maple: There are two main types of maple timber: sugar and black maple. It is known for its fine, consistent grain and durability. Hard maple is often used for furniture, cabinetry, and flooring, while softer maple is used for decorative items and lighter-duty furniture.
• Birch: Timber from birch trees is light in color, with a fine grain. It is a popular choice for furniture, cabinetry, and plywood. Yellow birch and river birch are the most common types.
• Cherry: Cherry hardwood timber is known for its smooth grain and reddish-brown color, which deepens with age. It is often used for high-quality furniture and cabinetry.
• Walnut: Walnut is a dark brown hardwood with a strong grain pattern. It is often used for luxury furniture, decorative cabinetry, and high-end flooring.

Functions and features of hardwood timber

Hardwood timber comes from broadleaf trees or deciduous trees. The trees that produce hardwood timber are usually slower-growing compared to softwood timber. As a result, hardwood timber is denser and more durable than other types of timber. Below are some of the key features and functions of hardwood timber.

• Durability

  One of the key features of hardwood timber is durability. Because of its density, this timber is resistant to wear and tear. As a result, it is preferred for high-traffic areas. Its durability ensures that floors, furniture, and fixtures are not easily damaged by everyday use. Hardwood's ability to withstand scratching, denting, and general degradation over time makes it a practical choice for spaces that see frequent foot activity.

• Grain and Texture

  Hardwood timber has a beautiful grain and texture. The timber comes in different textures and grains. The timber can have a straight, interlocked, or curly grain pattern. It can also have a fine or coarse texture. This variation allows for aesthetic customization and control, meaning that different timber types can be selected based on personal preferences and desired visual effects.

• Color

  Hardwood timber has a different color. Some timber is light, while others are dark. The light and dark colors of the timber vary from one species to the other. Some of the species that produce light-colored timber include oak and ash, while those that produce dark-colored timber include mahogany and walnut. These colors range from pale beige, reddish-brown, and deep chocolate brown. This rich variation in color allows for the selection of the desired timber to match the intended design and style.

• Workability

  Another important feature of hardwood timber is workability. This determines how easy the wood can be cut, shaped, or polished. Although hardwood timber is dense, some species, like oak and maple, can be easily worked on. Timber workability depends on the intended use of the wood. For example, if the wood is to be used for complex furniture with intricate designs, then a highly workable timber is required.

• Longevity

  Hardwood timber has a long lifespan. As discussed earlier, it is durable and resistant to wear and tear. This means that the timber will not degrade or deteriorate over time. Because of this reason, hardwood timber is preferred for products like furniture and flooring. With time, hardwood furniture develops character, increasing its value.

• Moisture Resistance

  Some hardwood timbers, like teak and walnut, are resistant to moisture. This prevents the growth of mold and mildew. As a result, this timber is used in building boats, ships, and outdoor furniture.

Scenarios of hardwood timber

Hardwood timber is used in various industries. Therefore, it is essential for retailers to understand the usage scenario of timber to be able to meet the demand of their customers. Here are some common usage scenarios of hardwood timber.

• Furniture construction — hardwood timber is used to manufacture furniture such as tables, chairs, cabinets, and beds. This is because hardwood is durable on its own and offers a long lifespan to the furniture. In addition, it comes with different appealing colors, which add elegance to the furniture.
• Flooring — hardwood flooring is a popular choice for many homeowners because it is easy to clean and maintain. Additionally, hardwood flooring is durable and can withstand everyday wear and tear. It is also loved by many people because it comes in different colours and patterns that suit different preferences.
• Construction of doors and windows — hardwood is used to construct doors and windows because of its strength and resistance to damage.
• Cabinetry and storage solutions — hardwood timber is used to manufacture cabinets and storage boxes. This is because wood can be crafted into different types of storage solutions, ranging from simple to complex ones.
• Musical instruments — hardwood is used to make musical instruments like pianos, violins, and guitars. Hardwood timber is a preferred choice for many instrument manufacturers because it produces quality sound.
• Decorative items — hardwood timber is used to manufacture decorative items like picture frames, sculptures, and clocks. This is because hardwood timber can be crafted into different decorative items with different finishes.
• Boat building — hardwood is also used in boat building, as it can withstand harsh weather conditions.
• Engineered wood products — engineered wood products, such as laminate flooring, veneer, and medium-density fiberboard (MDF), often incorporate hardwood in their production. While these products may not be solid hardwood, they utilize timber in various forms.
• Woodworking hobby projects — hobbyists and DIY enthusiasts often use hardwood in their woodworking projects. Whether creating small furniture pieces, crafts, or intricate designs, hardwood is a popular choice for such projects.

How to choose hardwood timber

When selecting the perfect hardwood flooring, it is important to consider many factors. Consider the color scheme, the amount of natural light in the space, and the type of furniture and fixtures that will be used. Here are some tips to consider when choosing hardwood flooring:

• Consider the style of the room

  If the room is more traditional, a darker, more refined flooring may be in order. A lighter, more casual floor may be the best choice if the space is more relaxed. Consider what kind of atmosphere is desired for the space and choose a floor that will help achieve that.

• Check the grain

  When it comes to the grain of the hardwoods, it is essential to remember that a more subtle grain will work better in a smaller space, while a more pronounced grain is more appropriate for a larger room.

• Color

  When choosing the correct hardwood flooring, color is an essential factor. Darker floors can anchor a space and make it look more elegant, while lighter floors can make a room feel more open and airy. Stained floors give a wide range of color options, from rich reds to cool grays.

• Durability

  When it comes to choosing timber flooring, one of the most important factors to consider is durability. Some woods, like oak and maple, are incredibly tough and can withstand a lot of wear and tear. These are great choices for high-traffic areas like living rooms and hallways. Other woods, like pine, are softer and more easily damaged. These would be better suited to low-traffic areas like bedrooms.

• Width and length

  When choosing hardwood flooring, it is essential to consider the room's scale. In a small space, more narrow planks can help create the illusion of depth. In contrast, more extensive planks can make a larger room feel cozier. Additionally, the length of the boards can impact the overall look of the floor - shorter boards can create a more traditional feel, while more extended boards can give a more contemporary appearance.

• Consider the finish

  Hardwood timber comes in many finishes, each offering its unique benefits and drawbacks. It's essential to consider how the finish will impact the timber's appearance and performance when choosing it. For example, a high-gloss finish will highlight the wood's natural grain and color more than a matte finish. However, a glossy finish will also show any scratches or blemishes more prominently. On the other hand, a matte finish will help to conceal minor imperfections but won't make the timber's natural beauty stand out as much.

hardwood timber Q & A

Q1: Can timber be recycled?

A1: Yes, recycled timber is available. It is sourced from old structures that are being demolished. The timber is then processed and cleaned to create new products. This form of timber is not only eco-friendly but also offers unique aesthetic features due to the aging process.

Q2: What is the difference between hardwood and softwood?

A2: The difference between hardwood and softwood is in the botany classification. The trees that produce hardwoods are broadleaf trees. They produce leaves rather than seeds. On the other hand, softwood trees are needle-bearing trees. They produce seeds instead of leaves.

Q3: How long does hardwood last?

A3: In general, hardwoods last longer than most softwoods. This is because of their dense nature. Densely packed fibers offer more structural integrity. As a result, hardwoods are less susceptible to damage from harsh weather or insect infestation.

Q4: What are the disadvantages of timber?

A4: One of the major disadvantages of timber is that it can warp. This is especially the case if it is exposed to extreme temperatures or moisture levels. As a result, proper installation and finishing are sometimes required to prevent this from happening. This adds to the overall cost of timber construction.

Q5: What are the signs of recycled timber?

A5: There are several signs of recycled timber. These include nail holes, which are usually left behind by old nails; and, textural variations, which include scars, grooves and saw marks. Recycled timber also has a patina, which is a natural finish developed over time.