Your Guide to Choosing Lumber

If you are new to the construction trades or are looking to complete a DIY project at your Corpus Christi home, the choices in lumber can be overwhelming. Beyond their looks, you need to know their characteristics and pertinent facts in order to choose the best lumber for your needs. Here at Armstrong Lumber in Corpus Christi, we've been supplying builders and homeowners with the highest-quality lumber supplies since 1946. With our more than 70 years of experience, we can help you choose the best lumber for your needs. Continue reading, and get started today!

Understanding the Types of Lumber

There are two types of lumber you need to be aware of: softwood and hardwood. Believe it or not, hardwood and softwood trees are not classified based on their wood; instead, they are classified based on the type of seeds that the tree produces.

Softwood Lumber

In general, however, softwood is softer than hardwoods, which is why they need more care over time. Types of softwood include pine, fir, spruce, and cedar. Because softwood trees grow faster than hardwood trees, their lumber is less expensive.

Hardwood Lumber

Hardwood lumber is generally from deciduous trees. This includes oak, maple, walnut, hickory, and mahogany. Since they take longer to grow, they are more expensive than softwood. Most construction projects and builders use softwood lumber for their needs.

Characteristics of Lumber

Density. Density of lumber will tell you the strength and the weight of the wood. The less dense wood is usually used in construction and DIY projects.
Texture. Texture helps determine the finish of the wood.
Color. Each type of tree produces a distinct natural wood color.

Woodgrain. Woodgrain refers to the direction that the wood cell fibers grow. Every tree has a unique pattern, which is why lumber is unique.

Grades of Lumber
Hardwood Grades

When you shop at our lumber store in Corpus Christi, you’ll see lumber classified by various grades. Grading of hardwood lumber refers to the number of defects in the boards. Lower grades of hardwood lumber are usually used in building projects where the wood cannot be seen or where the defects would not be noticeable.

Softwood Grades

Softwoods are divided into two broad grade categories: dimensional lumber and appearance boards. Dimensional lumber had a grade based on strength. Appearance boards are used for woodworking projects. C Select is the highest grade of softwood lumber with almost no defects. 3 Common is the lowest grade and is commonly used for fencing.

Softwood Lumber

Because softwood lumber is one of the most popular types of lumber for builders and DIYers, it is divided into classifications, too: yard, structural, and shop and factory.
- Yard lumber is the lumber used in construction and building. It is broken down into common and select lumber.
- Structural lumber is usually distinguished because it is sold in particular sizes, such as 2×4 or 4×4.
- Shop and factory lumber are the lowest grades of lumber and not meant for building purposes. This lumber is used in doors and molding.