Baskadia

Construction Lumber is a specific type of wood cut into different sizes. It is used in building construction and carpentry. This is an essential building material used to create building frameworks, furniture, and wooden structures. Lumber is graded based on quality and strength.

 If you want to know what basic sizes of lumber are used in the USA? So the answer is that lumber sizes vary. As many of you are curious about what lumber is and which sizes come in lumber so you are in the right place. 

Let's walk through the detailed explanation of the types, sizes, and uses of lumber.

What is Construction in Lumber?

Lumber is the wood framework that is used in building construction. It plays a backbone role in building construction. The wood framework enhances the overall strength and quality. It not only strengthens the structure but also adds the element in the finishing.

Types of lumber in construction

Is construction lumber categorised based on wood species? Yes, this is right. We have different species of wood, and each species has different characteristics. So stick here to know the different lumber types in detail.

1 . Softwood Lumber 

Softwood is made from coniferous trees. These are also known as evergreen trees. These trees have needles instead of leaves. We have some trees that belong to the softwood category, like:

Pine: This is lightweight and used in the construction of furniture.

Cedar: This is naturally resistant to insects and rot. It is best for outdoor furniture like decking, fences, and many more.

Spruce: Spruce is commonly used for wall studs or framing. It is lightweight but less resistant compared to other types. Spruce is mostly found in framing lumber. It is the affordable option for those looking for softwood.

 Fir: It is a strong, durable wood mostly used for structural applications. Fire is used during framing and flooring. It is resistant to heavy loads and to weather conditions.

2. Hardwood Lumber

As you’ve seen, the types of softwood, hardwood are also available in the market.

Hardwood is made from flowering trees that have broad leaves that fall according to the season. 

Hardwood creates pores on its surface that make furniture, cabinetry, and flooring of high quality. Due to its qualities, it is more expensive than softwood, so it is not affordable for every person.
The most commonly used hardwoods in construction lumber are given below:

• Beech 
  

• Chery
  

• Hash 
  

• Walnut 
  

• Oak 
  

• Maple
  

3. Engineered Lumber

If you take a look at this type of lumber, it’s made by combining fibres and strands. It’s durable and strong because it is made from multiple layers of wood.

 Let’s talk about some common types of engineered lumber.

• Ghulam: It’s an engineered wood product made by layering multiple sheets of wood together. This process makes it stronger and more stable, which is great for structural uses.
  

• LVL: Laminated veneer lumber is made by joining multiple thin layers of wood. It is mostly used for beams, headers, and rafters. The major advantage of this type is that it provides greater strength, stability, and uniformity.
  

• OSB: Oriented Strand Board (OSB) is a type of wood panel made by compressing layers of wood strands together. What makes OSB special is that it uses adhesive, so it holds up well against moisture.
  

4. Pressure-Treated lumber

Pressure-treated lumber is wood that has chemicals added to protect it from rot, insects, and decay. It’s mostly used for outdoor construction like decks, pilings, and other projects where the wood needs to last longer outside.

The treatment process goes deep into the wood fibers, which helps extend the lifespan and makes it more durable. Often, this treatment comes with warranties to back it up.

Essential Uses of Lumber in Construction

When it comes to construction, lumber is an essential material. It plays a backbone role in providing structural support for buildings. Just like every type of lumber has its own benefits in construction. Let's take a look at the uses of construction lumber:

• Lumber provides the framework for walls, floors, and roofs.
  

•  Beyond just the structure, it's used for flooring, decking, and roofing because it is very durable. 
  

• It's also super versatile, which is why it's commonly used for furniture and cabinetry. 
  

• One of the biggest uses of lumber is that it offers natural insulation, which helps to improve energy efficiency in buildings.
  

Lumber sizes: what Builders Need to Know

When you’re working on a construction project, it’s important to know the right lumber sizes.

Conclusion

After reading the whole blog, I hope you’ve gained a clear understanding of construction lumber, its types, and sizes. For more detailed and accurate construction lumber estimation services, don’t hesitate to contact SMA Estimating LLC. They will provide experts who deliver the best cost estimation for your lumbering process.