How To Buy Lumber

If you are getting ready to start a home project, the most important thing is to choose the right lumber. The dimensions and grades of lumber may seem complicated at first, but it is easy to catch on quick. You can save time and money by knowing where and how to pick the right boards.

Planning your project

Whether you are building a deck, fence, furniture or something else, the first step of the process is to create a detailed plan. Sketch out how you want the finished product to look. Make sure to note its dimensions and desired wood types. Some easy math gives you an accurate idea of how much lumber it takes to complete the project.

Softwoods versus hardwoods

There are two basic classes of lumber: softwoods and hardwoods. Most construction lumber is milled from fast-growing, softwood species, such as pine, fir or cedar. These woods are available in boards ranging from six to 20 feet in length. Softwoods are inexpensive and provide strength as well as flexibility. Hardwoods have very dense, fine grains and are milled from species such as cherry, oak and maple. These woods are a superior choice for furniture building and finish work, but come with a larger price tag.

Grading

Each piece of lumber is graded according to the uniformity and quality of its surface. Grades are assigned along a scale, based on physical looks. A select-grade piece of lumber is considered ideal for professional construction because it is strong, has little to no defects and is usable for application such as siding and furniture. A number three-grade board is considered economy-class and contains knots, holes and other defects. These lower-grade boards are commonly used where painting is performed later. As expected, higher-grade lumber commands higher prices.

Inspecting your lumber

After considering how much lumber you need and your spending limit, it is time to physically inspect each board you buy. The first step is to look down the edge of the board to determine its straightness. You should avoid boards that seem overly curved or warped. Depending on its use, you may also want to avoid knots. They are considered cosmetic, rather than physical, flaws, but in some situations, you may not want them. Never select boards with cracks; they almost always widen during construction, compromising structural integrity.

Now that you know more about how to select lumber properly, your next building project is sure to move along quickly. Remember that the right lumber is the most important step in any building process. When using poorly-chosen lumber, no amount of construction expertise can correct its flaws.

The right lumber is the most important step in any building process