Timber

When you're working on a construction or DIY project, choosing the right timber can make all the difference to the strength, durability, and overall finish of the build. One of the most versatile and widely used types is carcassing timber. It's a term you'll often hear in the trade, but if you're new to it, you might be wondering exactly what it means and how it's used. Let's take a closer look.

What is Carcassing Timber?

Carcassing timber refers to structural-grade softwood that's used in construction, where the timber will be hidden from view once the build is complete. It's graded for strength rather than appearance, so while it may have knots, colour variations, and other natural markings, it's perfectly suited to the jobs it's designed for.

Typically, carcassing timber is made from softwoods such as spruce, pine,

Depending on the construction project you are undertaking, you will need to choose the right kind of timber. Hardwood and softwood have names that seem to be self explanatory but these terms, somewhat confusingly, don't always refer to the density of the wood! This post looks at the differences between these two types of wood, how you can tell the difference and what these woods can be used for.

The Origins of Hardwood and Softwood

The main difference between hardwood and softwood is where they originate from. Hardwood comes from deciduous trees that lose their leaves every year, and softwood comes from evergreen trees which keep their foliage all year round. Hardwood is often sourced from trees such as oak, maple and walnut, all trees that produce nuts or seeds in an enclosed ovule. Hardwood trees often take up to 150 years to fully mature, so the wood is hard, heavy and dense. Softwood comes from trees such as spruces,