What is in the hardness of pine wood?

Answer 1

Trees that lose their leaves in winter are hardwoods, those that don't are softwoods. The density of the lumber has no bearing on the classification. Therefore pine are considered to be softwood.

Answer 2

The hardness (density) of Pine is dependent on many factors.

Proximity to the ocean. It has been shown that the most dense grades of Pine have matured within 15-30 miles from an ocean (in North America). Carribean Pine, mostly non-existent in the US, is said to need lubrication for nail driveing. Carpenters carried soap in their aprons, or rubbed the nail in their hair before driveing. Sometimes referrred to as "Dade County Pine" in south Florida, stands have all but disappeared. It is thought that the species originated on the islands of the carribean. There are existing structures more than 100 years old, crafted of Dade County Pine.

Another factor is the mineral content of the species, mostly dependent on where it was harvested. Most minerals contribute to density.

Lastly, the growth cycles under which the specimens developed; humidity, drought, fire and others, all have an effect on growth and hence, the density (hardness) of the species. One could summise that rapid growth might equal less density. This is not the case, some of the most rapid growth species are among the most dense.

Hardness is influenced by more than just these factors. Addressed here are those this writer is familiar with.

Answer 3

Well wood is pretty hard so I assume that it is a hardwood. You never see someone squishing and bending wood.

Answer 4

Pine is hard

Answer 5

Softwood