Lumber Lecture

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LumberLecture
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Lumber classifications

• Basically two types
• Soft wood (from conifers)
• Redwood, Cedar, Doug fir
• Softwood usually cheaper
• Easier to work with
• Hardwood (from deciduous trees)
• Mahogany, oak, chestnut
• Hardwood more difficult to work with
• Hardwood more resistant to rot/termites

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Generally speaking

• The higher the grade the more it costs
• Different regions/lumber yards grade differently
• See textbook page 36
• Smaller orders sold by the lineal foot (l.f.)
• Nominal size 2 x 4 is actually 1 ½ x 3 ½
• Note whenever possible hand pick all lumber
• Lumber quality continues to deteriate over time
• Harvest continues to be younger forests

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For decks

• Redwood and Cedar heartwoods
• Cut from center of tree
• More dense
• Resistant to insects and dry rot
• Finishes beautifully
• But much more expensive
• Note if it will be painted or stained use
  cheaper wood!!
• Use of artificial woods gaining in popularity
• Trex, PVC etc
• Can be made of recycled products

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Landscaping lumber

• Pressure treated wood or green wood
• Coat cut wood with preservative
• Studies show it is suitable for vegetable gardens
• Dont use creosote or railways ties for vegetable
  gardens
• Dont use for structural members
• Good for planters and steps

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Fasteners

• Use exterior grade fasteners
• Hot-dipped galvanized, stainless steels, coated
• Nails sold in penny sizes designated as d
• 4d or a four penny nail is 1 1/2 long
• 6d is 2, 8d is 2 ½, 10d is 3, 16d is 3 ½ ect
• Many different fasteners are available
• Including hangers, screws, bolts straps ect
• See www.strongtie.com

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FinishesInclude

• Preservatives for wood below grade
• Water repellants
• UV protectants
• Semitransparent stain solid-color stains
• Clear coats (spar varnish and polyurethane)
• Note Text book recommends not uses clear
  coats
• Paints
• Water based and oil based