Share This Article
As you begin to plan your home renovations, consider what types of materials you’ll need. Whether it’s for an outdoor patio or any other project, this beginner?s guide can help you choose the best options.
Some building materials have special properties that make them a good choice for certain projects. Here are some basic examples:
Hardwoods
Hardwoods are a type of tree that is used for flooring, furniture, cladding and cabinetry. They are also a popular choice for outdoor decks, fencing and boats.
While it’s common to see hardwoods and softwoods confused, they actually have different applications. The difference lies in the fact that hardwoods come from angiosperm trees, while softwoods come from gymnosperms.
Wood from angiosperm trees includes walnut, maple, oak, mahogany and teak. They have seeds that are encased in an ovary, rather than being enclosed by needles like softwoods do.
In contrast, gymnosperms, like pine trees, don’t have seeds encased in an ovary. Their seeds aren’t covered by leaves, so they can spread much more easily than angiosperms.
There are many different types of hardwoods, but some of the most popular include oaks, hickory, birch, beech and cherry. The wood from these trees is typically dark and thick, and has a beautiful finish.
Softwoods
Whether you are looking for new siding, cladding or wood decks, softwoods can be a great option. They are a sustainable, versatile and cost-effective choice for outdoor building projects.
The main distinction between hardwood and softwood is the plant species they come from. Hardwood trees are angiosperms, or plants that produce seeds enclosed in ovules, such as a hickory nut.
These trees grow more slowly and have complex cellular structures, which result in them being able to withstand more wear and tear. They also have a structure that can be seen under a microscope called resin canals, which are used for transporting water.
Softwoods are gymnosperms, or plants that let their seeds fall to the ground without covering them. These seeds aren’t enclosed in an ovule, so they spread easily and quickly, making them less dense than hardwoods.
Lumber
Depending on the specific project, lumber can be used for many things. From constructing decks to building fences, the right lumber can make your outdoor projects more enjoyable and less stressful.
There are several types of wood, from hardwood to softwood, each with its own characteristics and uses. Understanding the different types of lumber can help you find the best product for your needs and budget.
Grade refers to both appearance and strength, with strong lumber exhibiting fewer knots and cosmetic blemishes getting a higher grade and price. Lumber grading standards in Canada maintain a standard among mills manufacturing similar woods to ensure that customers receive uniform quality and value.
There are several common grades of lumber, including #1 common, #2 common and so on. These grading designations are usually found on the tag in stores. These grades are generally considered lower-grade lumber for general construction and where defects will not be noticeable or objectionable to the end user.
Tools
Tools are any implement, instrument or utensil that is held in the hand and used to form, shape, fasten, add to, take away from, or otherwise change something by cutting, hitting, digging, rubbing, etc. These include knives, saws, hammers, shovels, etc.
Equipment is a group of instruments or functional devices that serve a specific purpose, such as alternators, absorbers, optical, electronic boxes. These devices can be found in vehicles, homes or businesses and are designated to perform a particular task.
In outdoor building, tools are an essential part of creating safe and durable structures. Sherwin-Williams offers a variety of waterborne and solvent-based coatings that are proven to protect outdoor buildings from harsh weather conditions.
