Understanding Wood Selection: Hardwoods, Softwoods, and Medium Woods

In the world of furnituremaking and construction, the distinction between hardwoods and softwoods is foundational to the selection of materials for numerous projects, including furniture. Choosing the right type of wood can make a significant difference in the durability, appearance, and functionality of a piece. With an array of options available, understanding these categories of wood is crucial for anyone involved in building or crafting. This knowledge not only informs the aesthetic and structural decisions but also impacts the sustainability and cost-effectiveness of projects.

This article offers a comprehensive guide to hardwoods and softwoods, covering their characteristics, uses, and how they compare to medium woods. It starts with an explanation of what distinguishes hardwoods from softwoods and medium woods, followed by an in-depth look at each category. Readers will gain insights into the specific properties that make certain woods ideal for furniture and other applications. The upcoming sections aim to equip individuals with the information needed to make informed choices about the materials they work with, paving the way for successful projects that stand the test of time.

What Are Hardwoods, Medium Woods, and Softwoods?

Trees are broadly classified into two categories: hardwoods and softwoods. This classification is somewhat misleading, as some softwoods are actually harder than many hardwoods. Hardwoods, or angiosperms, are typically trees with enclosed seeds and broad leaves that are often shed annually. They possess a complex cellular structure, which includes vessel elements that aid in water transportation, contributing to their density and hardness. Examples include oak, mahogany, and maple.

Scientific Classification

Softwoods, or gymnosperms, include trees with exposed seeds, such as conifers. These trees generally have needles or scale-like leaves that remain on the tree for extended periods, and their wood lacks the vessel elements found in hardwoods. Softwoods are less dense and easier to work with, making them suitable for a variety of applications, including furniture and construction. Popular softwood species include pine, cedar, and fir.

Historical Significance

Historically, both hardwoods and softwoods have played significant roles. The Ancient Greeks and Romans utilised hardwoods like oak for construction and religious idols, revering it for its strength and association with deity Zeus. Softwoods have been integral in structural framing and other architectural elements due to their availability and workability. In more recent times, softwoods have been essential in the production of paper and everyday furniture, demonstrating their continued importance in both historical and modern contexts.

Hardwoods Overview

Types of Hardwoods

Hardwoods encompass a variety of species, each with unique characteristics and uses. Notable types include oak, known for its strength and used in furniture and flooring; maple, preferred for its light colour and fine grain, making it ideal for decorative purposes; cherry, appreciated for its reddish-brown colour and used in high-end furniture; walnut, renowned for its dark, rich hues, suitable for luxurious accents; and mahogany, prized for its durability and fine grain, often used in high-quality furniture and musical instruments.

Properties and Applications

Hardwoods are distinguished by their density and durability, making them suitable for a wide range of applications. These woods are generally more resistant to wear and tear, making them ideal for high-traffic areas like flooring and heavy-duty furniture. The aesthetic appeal of hardwoods is notable, with a variety of colours and textures that enhance the design of any space. Additionally, hardwoods are easier to maintain and can be refinished, which is a valuable feature for long-term usage. Their fire resistance makes them a safer choice in construction. Common applications include building frameworks, cladding, panelling, and in the crafting of boats and outdoor decks.

1. Eucalyptus (Eucalyptus spp.)

Eucalyptus is a genus that includes many species of hardwoods. Some of the most well-known and widely used eucalyptus species include:

Jarrah (Eucalyptus marginata)
- Characteristics: Dark red-brown colour, high density, and excellent durability.
- Uses: Flooring, decking, furniture, and outdoor structures.
Blackbutt (Eucalyptus pilularis)
- Characteristics: Pale brown to yellowish-brown colour, good workability, and durability.
- Uses: Flooring, construction, joinery, and furniture.
Spotted Gum (Eucalyptus maculata)
- Characteristics: Attractive colour variations from pale brown to dark chocolate, high density, and durability.
- Uses: Flooring, decking, outdoor furniture, and structural applications.
Ironbark (Eucalyptus spp.)
- Characteristics: Very hard, dense wood with colours ranging from pale brown to dark red.
- Uses: Heavy construction, railway sleepers, and outdoor applications.

2. Tasmanian Oak (Eucalyptus regnans, Eucalyptus obliqua, Eucalyptus delegatensis)

Characteristics: Light-coloured timber ranging from pale cream to pink and reddish-brown, moderate density.
Uses: Flooring, furniture, panelling, and general joinery.

3. Sydney Blue Gum (Eucalyptus saligna)

Characteristics: Rich, dark pink to red-brown colour, high durability, and attractive grain.
Uses: Flooring, furniture, joinery, and construction.

4. Mountain Ash (Eucalyptus regnans)

Characteristics: Light-coloured wood, relatively fast-growing, moderate density.
Uses: Flooring, furniture, and construction.

5. River Red Gum (Eucalyptus camaldulensis)

Characteristics: Deep red colour, high durability, and density.
Uses: Heavy construction, railway sleepers, decking, and outdoor furniture.

6. Brush Box (Lophostemon confertus)

Characteristics: Pinkish to reddish-brown colour, fine and even texture, good hardness and durability.
Uses: Flooring, furniture, and decking.

7. Blue Gum (Eucalyptus globulus)

Characteristics: Pale to dark brown colour, moderate to high density.
Uses: Flooring, furniture, and joinery.

8. Tallowwood (Eucalyptus microcorys)

Characteristics: Pale to dark yellow-brown colour, oily texture, highly durable and resistant to decay.
Uses: Decking, flooring, and heavy construction.

9. Red Mahogany (Eucalyptus resinifera)

Characteristics: Dark red to reddish-brown colour, high density, and durability.
Uses: Flooring, furniture, and joinery.

American hardwoods are widely valued for their durability, strength, and aesthetic appeal. These woods come from broad-leaved trees (deciduous) and are used in various applications ranging from furniture to flooring. Here are some of the most notable American hardwood species:

1. Oak (Quercus spp.)

Types:

Red Oak (Quercus rubra)
- Characteristics: Light to medium brown with a reddish hue, straight grain, coarse texture.
- Uses: Flooring, furniture, cabinetry, and millwork.
White Oak (Quercus alba)
- Characteristics: Light to medium brown, more resistant to moisture than red oak.
- Uses: Flooring, barrels, boatbuilding, and furniture.

2. Maple (Acer spp.)

Types:

Hard Maple (Acer saccharum)
- Characteristics: Light colour, fine texture, high density and hardness.
- Uses: Flooring, furniture, cabinetry, and cutting boards.
Soft Maple (Acer rubrum)
- Characteristics: Lighter and softer than hard maple, still relatively hard.
- Uses: Furniture, cabinetry, and musical instruments.

3. Cherry (Prunus serotina)

Characteristics: Reddish-brown colour that deepens with age, fine and uniform texture, medium density.
Uses: High-end furniture, cabinetry, panelling, and musical instruments.

4. Walnut (Juglans nigra)

Characteristics: Rich dark brown to purplish-black colour, straight grain with a somewhat coarse texture.
Uses: High-end furniture, cabinetry, gunstocks, and veneers.

5. Hickory (Carya spp.)

Characteristics: Light to medium brown with a reddish hue, extremely hard and dense.
Uses: Tool handles, flooring, cabinetry, and sporting goods.

6. Birch (Betula spp.)

Types:

Yellow Birch (Betula alleghaniensis)
- Characteristics: Light yellow to reddish-brown colour, fine texture.
- Uses: Furniture, cabinetry, flooring, and plywood.
Paper Birch (Betula papyrifera)
- Characteristics: Lighter in colour, slightly softer than yellow birch.
- Uses: Furniture, cabinetry, and plywood.

7. Ash (Fraxinus spp.)

Characteristics: Light to medium brown colour, straight grain with a coarse texture.
Uses: Furniture, flooring, cabinetry, and sports equipment (like baseball bats).

8. Beech (Fagus grandifolia)

Characteristics: Pale cream colour, sometimes with a pink or brown hue; fine texture.
Uses: Furniture, flooring, cabinetry, and tool handles.

9. Elm (Ulmus spp.)

Characteristics: Light to medium reddish-brown colour, interlocked grain, tough and resistant to splitting.
Uses: Furniture, veneer, and historically, wheel hubs and archery bows.

10. Poplar (Liriodendron tulipifera)

Characteristics: Light yellow to greenish colour, straight grain with a fine texture, softer than other hardwoods.
Uses: Furniture frames, cabinetry, interior trim, and plywood.

11. Alder (Alnus rubra)

Characteristics: Light brown colour with a reddish hue, straight grain, fine and uniform texture.
Uses: Furniture, cabinetry, doors, and musical instruments.

Medium Woods Overview

Characteristics and Examples

Medium woods, which include a range of species such as oak, walnut, and beech, are known for their unique balance of hardness and workability. Oak, for instance, is available in varieties like red oak and white oak, the latter being a greyish-brown shade. Both types are dense and hard-wearing, making them excellent for furniture due to their resistance to stains and scratches. Walnut, recognised for its rich, chocolate-colored grain, varies in colour and is often used for high-end furniture due to its strength and aesthetic appeal. Beech, though less attractive than some woods, is extremely strong and shock-resistant, making it suitable for items requiring durability.

Common Uses

Medium woods are versatile in their applications. Oak is extensively used for veneers and furniture; walnut for luxurious furniture pieces and detailed carvings, and beech for robust furniture and even tool handles due to its strength. These woods are also preferred for their ability to be shaped and finished to mimic more expensive woods, enhancing their appeal in both commercial and domestic settings. Their balanced characteristics make them ideal for a variety of uses, from decorative to structural, ensuring their place in both historical and contemporary woodworking.

While Australia is more famous for its hardwoods, there are several species that can be considered medium woods due to their intermediate density and versatility. Here are some notable Australian species that fit this category:

1. Silky Oak (Grevillea robusta)

Characteristics: Light to medium brown with a golden sheen, medium density, and an attractive lace-like grain pattern.
Uses: Furniture, cabinetry, veneers, and decorative panelling.

2. Brush Box (Lophostemon confertus)

Characteristics: Pinkish to reddish-brown colour, medium density, fine and even texture.
Uses: Flooring, furniture, joinery, and decking.

3. Tasmanian Oak (Eucalyptus regnans, Eucalyptus obliqua, Eucalyptus delegatensis)

Characteristics: Light-colored timber ranging from pale cream to pink and reddish-brown, moderate density.
Uses: Flooring, furniture, panelling, and general joinery.

4. Sydney Blue Gum (Eucalyptus saligna)

Characteristics: Rich, dark pink to red-brown colour, medium to high density, attractive grain.
Uses: Flooring, furniture, joinery, and construction.

5. Silver Wattle (Acacia dealbata)

Characteristics: Golden to light brown colour, medium density, fine and even texture.
Uses: Furniture, turning, and small speciality wood items.

6. Blackwood (Acacia melanoxylon)

Characteristics: Golden brown to dark brown, medium density, fine and even texture with a straight to wavy grain.
Uses: Furniture, cabinetry, musical instruments, and decorative veneers.

7. Mountain Ash (Eucalyptus regnans)

Characteristics: Light-colored wood, relatively fast-growing, moderate density.
Uses: Flooring, furniture, and construction.

8. Queensland Maple (Flindersia brayleyana)

Characteristics: Light pink to reddish-brown, medium density, fine and even texture with a straight to slightly interlocked grain.
Uses: High-quality furniture, cabinetry, and musical instruments.

9. Red Mahogany (Eucalyptus resinifera)

Characteristics: Dark red to reddish-brown colour, medium to high density.
Uses: Flooring, furniture, joinery, and construction.

Here are some notable American wood species that are considered medium woods:

1. Cherry (Prunus serotina)

Characteristics: Reddish-brown colour that darkens with age, fine and uniform texture, medium density.
Uses: Furniture, cabinetry,panelling,, and musical instruments.

2. Red Maple (Acer rubrum)

Characteristics: Light to medium reddish-brown color, fine texture with a straight grain, moderate hardness.
Uses: Furniture, flooring, cabinetry, and turned objects.

3. Soft Maple (Acer spp.)

Characteristics: Generally lighter in colour than hard maple, medium density, fine and even texture.
Uses: Furniture, cabinetry, and musical instruments.

4. Alder (Alnus rubra)

Characteristics: Light brown colour with a reddish hue, straight grain, fine and uniform texture, moderate density.
Uses: Furniture, cabinetry, doors, and musical instruments.

5. American Beech (Fagus grandifolia)

Characteristics: Pale cream colour, sometimes with a pink or brown hue, straight grain with a fine texture, medium density.
Uses: Furniture, flooring, cabinetry, and tool handles.

6. Butternut (Juglans cinerea)

Characteristics: Light brown colour with a golden or reddish tint, medium density, coarse texture.
Uses: Furniture, cabinetry, and carvings.

7. Birch (Betula spp.)

Characteristics: Light yellow to pale brown colour; fine and uniform texture, medium density.
Uses: Furniture, cabinetry, plywood, and doors.

8. Yellow Poplar (Liriodendron tulipifera)

Characteristics: Light yellow to greenish colour, straight grain with a fine texture, medium density.
Uses: Furniture, cabinetry, interior trim, and veneer.

9. Black Walnut (Juglans nigra)

Characteristics: Rich dark brown to purplish-black colour, medium density, straight grain with a somewhat coarse texture.
Uses: High-end furniture, cabinetry, gunstocks, and musical instruments.

10. Sassafras (Sassafras albidum)

Characteristics: Light brown colour with an orange or reddish hue, coarse texture, moderate density.
Uses: Furniture, cabinetry,panelling,, and boatbuilding.

Softwoods Overview

Softwoods, derived primarily from conifer trees, are distinguished by their needle-like leaves and evergreen nature. These woods are generally lighter in colour and less dense compared to hardwoods, which contributes to their ease of workability and lower cost. Commonly recognised softwoods include pine, cedar, and spruce, each known for specific applications ranging from construction to decorative projects.

Types of Softwoods

Softwoods encompass a variety of species, such as Western Red Cedar, known for its use in cladding and joinery, and Douglas Fir, favoured in construction and as Christmas trees. Other notable types include Spruce, widely used in musical instrument production due to its resonant properties, Radiata Pine used in construction, furniture, pulp and paper, hoope pine used in Joinery, Plywood and furniture; and Redwood, valued for its moisture resistance and aesthetic appeal.

Properties and Applications

Softwoods are appreciated for their workability and versatility. They are lighter, making them easier to handle and manipulate, which is ideal for a range of construction and artistic applications. Despite their lower density, many softwoods like Cedar and Bunya pine, offer sufficient durability for both indoor and outdoor uses. Typically, these woods are more sustainable due to their faster growth rates, making them a cost-effective choice for large-scale projects and commercial manufacturing of products like paper and furniture.

Here are some notable Australian softwood species:

1. Radiata Pine (Pinus radiata)

Characteristics:

Growth: Fast-growing and widely planted in Australia.
Wood colour: Light yellow to pale brown.
Texture: Fine and even texture with a straight grain.
Workability: Easy to work with, making it popular for a variety of applications.

Uses:

Construction: Commonly used in framing and structural components.
Furniture: Suitable for making furniture due to its ease of handling.
Pulp and Paper: Widely used in the production of paper products.

2. Hoop Pine (Araucaria cunninghamii)

Characteristics:

Growth: Native to Queensland and New South Wales.
Wood colour: Pale cream to light yellow.
Texture: Fine and uniform texture with a straight grain.
Workability: Easy to work with and finishes well.

Uses:

Joinery: Often used in joinery and interior fittings.
Plywood: Commonly used in plywood production.
Furniture: Suitable for a range of furniture making.

3. Celery-top Pine (Phyllocladus aspleniifolius)

Characteristics:

Growth: Native to Tasmania.
Wood colour: Pale yellow to light brown.
Texture: Fine and uniform texture with a straight grain.
Durability: Moderately durable and resistant to decay.

Uses:

Boat Building: Valued for its resistance to water.
Furniture: Used in fine furniture making.
Turnery: Suitable for turned objects and detailed work.

4. Bunya Pine (Araucaria bidwillii)

Characteristics:

Growth: Native to Queensland.
Wood colour: Light cream to pale yellow.
Texture: Fine and even texture with a straight grain.
Workability: Easy to work with and glues well.

Uses:

Furniture: Used in furniture making and cabinetry.
Flooring: Sometimes used in flooring due to its attractive appearance.
Panelling: Suitable for interior panelling and joinery.

5. Cypress Pine (Callitris spp.)

Characteristics:

Growth: Found in various parts of Australia, including arid regions.
Wood colour: Pale yellow to brown.
Texture: Fine and uniform texture with a straight to wavy grain.
Durability: Highly durable and resistant to termites.

Uses:

Fencing: Commonly used for fence posts and rails.
Flooring: Valued for its durability in flooring applications.
Construction: Used in construction where durability is essential.

Here are some notable American softwood species:

1. Eastern White Pine (Pinus strobus)

Characteristics: Light, pale yellow colour with a straight grain and fine, even texture. It is relatively soft and easy to work with.
Uses: Construction, furniture, millwork, and panelling.

2. Douglas Fir (Pseudotsuga menziesii)

Characteristics: Light brown with a hint of red or yellow, straight grain with a medium to coarse texture. Known for its strength and durability.
Uses: Construction, especially for framing, flooring, and plywood.

3. Western Red Cedar (Thuja plicata)

Characteristics: Reddish-brown colour with a straight grain and a uniform, fine texture. It has a pleasant aroma and is naturally resistant to decay.
Uses: Outdoor furniture, decking, shingles, and siding.

4. Southern Yellow Pine (Pinus spp.)

Characteristics: Light yellow to reddish-brown colour, straight grain with a coarse texture. It is strong and relatively hard for a softwood.
Uses: Construction, flooring, and utility poles.

5. Sitka Spruce (Picea sitchensis)

Characteristics: Light pinkish-brown colour with a fine, even texture and straight grain. It is lightweight yet strong.
Uses: Aircraft construction, boatbuilding, musical instruments (soundboards), and general construction.

6. Lodgepole Pine (Pinus contorta)

Characteristics: Light yellow to pale brown colour, straight grain with a fine to medium texture. It is relatively soft and easy to work with.
Uses: Construction, panelling, and pulpwood.

7. Ponderosa Pine (Pinus ponderosa)

Characteristics: Light yellow to pale brown colour, straight grain with a medium texture. It is soft and easy to work with.
Uses: Construction, furniture, and millwork.

8. Redwood (Sequoia sempervirens)

Characteristics: Light pinkish-brown to deep reddish-brown colour, straight grain with a coarse texture. It is lightweight and naturally resistant to decay.
Uses: Outdoor furniture, decking, and siding.

9. Western Hemlock (Tsuga heterophylla)

Characteristics: Light, pale browncolourr with a straight grain and fine to medium texture. It is relatively soft and easy to work with.
Uses: Construction, plywood, and paper pulp.

10. Eastern Hemlock (Tsuga canadensis)

Characteristics: Light reddish-brown colour with a straight grain and a coarse texture. It is relatively soft and easy to work with.
Uses: Construction, framing, and pulpwood.

11. Engelmann Spruce (Picea engelmannii)

Characteristics: Light yellow to pale brown colour, straight grain with a fine, even texture. It is lightweight and has a good strength-to-weight ratio.
Uses: Musical instruments (soundboards), construction, and paper pulp.

Conclusion

Throughout this detailed exploration, we’ve journeyed through the distinct realms of hardwoods, softwoods, and medium woods, uncovering their unique characteristics, applications, and historical significance. By diving into examples like oak, mahogany, cedar, and Douglas fir, we’ve illustrated the critical role these materials play in various construction and crafting projects. Such knowledge not only aids in making informed choices but also enhances our appreciation for the material diversity at our disposal, emphasising how the careful selection of wood can substantially influence the durability, aesthetic, and overall quality of the finished product.

In reflecting on the broader implications, it’s clear that understanding these distinctions carries weight beyond mere practicality—it’s about embracing sustainability and cost-effectiveness in our material choices. The insights shared here pave the way for more thoughtful, informed decisions in both personal and professional woodworking endeavours. As we continue to innovate and build, let us remain mindful of the legacy of craftsmanship, choosing the right wood for the right purpose, thereby ensuring our projects not only stand the test of time but also reflect an awareness and respect for the natural resources we so extensively rely on.

FAQs

1. What distinguishes hardwoods from softwoods?
Hardwoods generally come from deciduous trees that shed their leaves each year, while softwoods originate from coniferous trees that are typically evergreen. Hardwoods are derived from slower-growing trees, making the wood denser compared to softwoods.

2. Which type of wood is considered the most costly in Australia?
In Australia, the most expensive wood is the Huon Pine. It is highly valued for its beautiful grain and distinct aroma. This timber is native to Tasmania and its high price is attributed to its slow growth rate and limited availability.

3. What are the toughest types of timber found in Australia?
The hardest timber in Australia is the Australian Buloke, with a Janka hardness rating of 5,060 lbf. This type of ironwood is indigenous to various regions across Eastern and Southern Australia and is recognised as the hardest wood globally.

4. Is ironbark classified as a hardwood or a softwood?
Ironbark is a type of hardwood. This distinctive Australian hardwood has been valued for more than 200 years due to its strength and durability. It is a handsome wood that grows from Victoria through the western slopes of New South Wales to southern Queensland.