When it comes to timber materials, the choice between hardwood and softwood can often be a bit of a head-scratcher. Both of these types of woods are used in different ways and offer unique benefits that cater to different needs, and this can quickly leave you asking “what is the difference between hardwood and softwood?”
Well in this blog, we’ll break down the key differences between hardwood and softwood, including their common uses and their pros and cons. If you’re about to start a project, keep reading as we’ll give you a clearer understanding of which type of wood will best suit your needs.
What is hardwood?
Hardwood comes from deciduous trees, such as oak and maple, which are known for shedding their leaves seasonally. As these trees take their time to grow, it results in a dense and durable wood that can be used in various applications. The higher the density of hardwood, the longer it’s taken for the tree to grow.
Often available in different grain patterns and colours, the tightly packed fibres within the wood is what gives hardwood its strength and luxurious look, making it a firm favourite for high-end projects. From crafting sturdy furniture to elegant flooring, the versatility of hardwood knows no bounds.
What is softwood?
Don’t let the name softwood fool you, because this type of wood is far from soft. It comes from coniferous trees, also known as gymnosperm trees, which are known for growing quickly. This is what makes softwood more readily available and often more budget-friendly.
While not typically as dense as hardwood, softwood still plays an important role in construction, paper production, and more. It offers its own set of advantages that makes it suitable for many applications such as decking, fencing, model building, and even buoyancy aids.
What are the advantages of hardwood?
There are many advantages of hardwood that make it a popular choice for a range of projects. Some key benefits include:
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It’s high quality – their dense grain structure makes them exceptionally durable and resistant to dents and scratches.
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It’s long lasting – because of its durability, it’s an excellent option for flooring where longevity is needed for high-traffic areas.
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It’s resistant to wear and tear – again due to its strength, furniture that is made from hardwood is able to withstand the test of time.
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It has an attractive grain pattern and rich colours – this helps to add a touch of sophistication, warmth, and elegance to any space.
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It has natural beauty – whether you finish your hardwood with a clear coat or stain it to enhance its innate characteristics, its natural beauty will shine through.
If you’re looking for longevity, strength, and aesthetic appeal in your next project, hardwood may be the ideal material.
What are the disadvantages of hardwood?
While hardwood has exceptional durability amongst other benefits, it would be naive to think it’s invincible. Some disadvantages of hardwood to be aware of include:
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It can warp or swell when exposed to moisture – this makes proper maintenance, such as regular sealing and refinishing, very important, especially in humid environments.
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Certain types of hardwood are susceptible to pests – termites or wood-boring beetles for example can be attracted to certain hardwoods. But by choosing a type that is naturally resistant, or treating them with appropriate pest control measures, you can reduce this risk.
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It can fade from too much sunlight – if hardwood is exposed to too much sunlight, it can change colour over time.
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It has a higher cost – hardwood is often more expensive than softwood, but you pay for better quality.
What are the advantages of softwood?
Just like hardwood, softwood boasts a number of benefits that again, make it a very popular choice for numerous projects, especially DIY projects. Some key advantages of softwood include:
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It’s affordable – because of their faster growth rate, they’re much more readily available, making them a less expensive option compared to hardwoods.
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It’s much easier to work with – thanks to their lighter weight and softer texture, softwood is easier to cut, shape, and nail, which makes them a firm favourite for both DIY enthusiasts and experienced builders.
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It’s more eco-friendly – again, because softwood trees grow much faster, this makes them a much more eco-friendly option as they can be replenished faster.
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It’s suitable for a wide range of uses – from construction projects to furniture, softwood has numerous uses, and they’re also great for interior finishes as they readily accept paints, stains, and varnishes, allowing you to create your perfect aesthetic style.
Overall, softwood allows for a practical and visually pleasing option for any type of project, no matter if you’re a DIY enthusiast or a professional trades person.
What are the disadvantages of softwood?
Although softwood is often praised for its affordability and ease of use, there are some cons that are important to consider. Some disadvantages of softwood are:
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It can be prone to wear and tear – as softwood is less durable than hardwood, it is prone to dents and scratches. However this can depend largely on the type of softwood chosen and their intended use, as they can be treated.
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It can warp or shrink – if there are particularly changes in humidity and temperatures, softwood has the potential for warping or shrinking.
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It requires more maintenance – unlike hardwood, softwood requires more frequent maintenance to protect against weathering, rot, and pests for example, especially if it hasn’t already been pre-treated.
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It lacks rich texture and colour variation – softwoods tend to have a simpler and more uniform grain pattern, meaning they don’t have the rich textures and colours like hardwood does.
Choose the right materials with JTD Building Supplies
We hope we’ve answered the question of “what is the difference between hardwood and softwood”. Ultimately, understanding the differences between hardwood and softwood and their pros and cons, can help you make the right decision for your next project.
At JTD Building Supplies, we provide a huge range of building materials, including a variety of high-quality hardwoods, softwoods, and other timber supplies. If you’d like more guidance on the right type of material for your project, or to get a competitive quote, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us today.
FAQs around hardwoods and softwoods
What are some common types of hardwoods?
Some of the most popular types of hardwoods include oaks, ash, maple, walnut, mahogany, and beech. These species of hardwood are most valued for their strength, grain patterns, and long-lasting properties.
What are some common types of softwoods?
Typical types of softwoods include pine, spruce, fir, larch, and cedar. They’re most commonly used in joinery and construction projects, as well as to build furniture thanks to their availability and ease of use.
Which is better: hardwood or softwood?
The choice will depend on the intended use. Hardwood is typically denser, more durable, and suitable for high-traffic areas or structural uses for example. Softwood, on the other hand, is generally lighter, more workable, and often more affordable, making it ideal for furniture, panelling, and general construction.
