Timber Explained: Different Types & How to Choose the Right One

When constructing your ideal space in Hyderabad, whether it is a residential building or a custom-built piece of furniture or some unspecified amount of commercial property, you will need different types of lumber (also known as timber), each type of wood will have an appearance and finish suited to the type of use. There are many options to choose from when selecting a particular type of lumber; therefore, you may find it difficult to identify what is best for your specific needs. However, it doesn't have to be as hard as it appears... In this complete guide, we will provide you with detailed information about all aspects related to timber, including. The types of hardwoods available, the types of softwoods available, the types of engineered timbers available, and the environmentally-friendly types of timbers available. This will allow you to make the right choice based on your criteria including your budget, and your beliefs.

Understanding Timber: The Foundation of Quality Construction

Timber has been mankind's partner in construction for centuries, and it should be no surprise! This adaptable and renewable material is extremely strong, has natural beauty, and has many uses! Here at Wood and Veneers, we are proud to have supplied many different types of timber throughout Hyderabad and surrounding areas over the last few years, and one thing we have learned about providing our customers with the right product is simply matching up the right timber to the right application.

To avoid any confusion, let me clarify our definition of timber. When we talk about timber, we are referring to lumber or planks that have been processed from trees for various uses such as construction or making furniture. Various factors can affect how quality, characteristics, and suitability of timber is determined. Tree type, soil conditions, types and methods for harvesting, and types of finishes are just a few examples of what may cause different levels and qualities of timber.

The Two Main Categories: Hardwood vs. Softwood

The timber world is broadly divided into two categories, but they might not be what you think. These classifications aren't actually about the wood's hardness — they're based on the type of tree the wood comes from.

Hardwood Timber

Source: Deciduous trees (trees that shed their leaves annually)

Attributes: Typically hardwood trees with denser grain structures than other types of wood, are typically resistant to wear and durable. These types of hardwood trees also have very attractive and interesting grain patterns that will enhance the appearance of any project. As hardwood trees grow slowly, they are denser and stronger than softwoods.

The most common types of hardwood trees grown in India:

• Teak - The best quality wood from India, with superior strength, water resistance, and beautiful golden brown color; commonly used for outdoor furniture, boat construction, and high quality flooring.

• Sal wood (Shorea robusta) - Strong, resistant to termites and therefore can be used for many heavy use items such as home construction, dock and rail car flooring.

• Sheesham (Indian rosewood) - Attractive wood; has rich color and distinctive grain characteristics; ideal for many types of furniture, cabinetmaking, and decorative applications.

• Mango wood — An environmentally friendly hardwood with unique grain characteristics; often used for low cost and medium-expensive items due to high durability and unique grain characteristics.

Best Uses: Flooring, high-end furniture, cabinetry, exterior decking, load bearing structural elements in superior-built homes.