Softwood and Hardwood both have different advantages and are better suited to different applications. If you are new to working with timber you may be confused about what is best for you. Below is a quick guide breaking down the differences to give you a better understanding.

Softwood

The term “softwood” applies to any lumber that has been cut from evergreen or conifer trees, such as cedar, larch, pine, or spruce. Generally, it is easier to work with due to being lighter and much easier to cut. Its appearance is typically light in colour, with visible knots (circles left behind from the many branches of softwood trees) and a less prominent grain. Softwood trees grow much quicker than hardwood trees, making softwood more sustainable and usually cheaper.

The majority of timber we stock here at Bedford Timber is softwood, primarily sourced from Scandinavia, with a selected range from Europe. These high-quality, slow-grown timbers are ideal for planing and machining, which pairs nicely with our cutting mill. Softwood is a very versatile material and has an incredible number of uses, the most common being cladding, decking, flooring, panelling, structural framing, and furniture.

Hardwood

The term “hardwood” applies to any lumber that has been cut from deciduous trees, such as oak, ash, beech, or mahogany. Generally, hardwood is denser and heavier than softwood, making it more durable and resistant to wear. Its appearance often features rich, deep colours and a more distinct grain pattern, making it highly sought after for its aesthetic appeal. Hardwood trees grow much slower than softwood trees, which makes hardwood less sustainable and typically more expensive.

At Bedford Timber, we stock a variety of hardwoods sourced from well-maintained environments all over the world, ensuring premium quality and consistency. These timbers are particularly well-suited for fine woodworking and furniture-making, thanks to their strength and beautiful finish. Hardwood is a versatile material commonly used for flooring, cabinetry, high-end furniture, tool handles, and even outdoor applications such as decking and fencing, where durability is essential.

Which is best for you?

Softwood and hardwood each have their own strengths, making them ideal for different projects. Whether you need the lightness and affordability of softwood or the durability and beauty of hardwood, understanding their differences helps you make the right choice. Both materials offer incredible versatility, so whatever your project, there’s a timber that fits the job perfectly. If you would like more information on what we can offer or want a tailored recommendation, get in touch and we’ll be happy to help.

<Scroll for more>

Feature

Softwood

Hardwood

Tree Type

Evergreen or Conifer

Deciduous

Density

Lighter and less dense

Heavier and denser

Workability

Easier to cut and shape

Requires more effort and precision

Appearance

Light in colour, visible knots, less prominent grain

Rich, deep colours, distinct and varied grain patterns

Growth Rate

Grows faster, making it more sustainable

Grows slower, making it less sustainable

Cost

Generally cheaper

Typically more expensive

Durability

Less durable and prone to wear

Highly durable and resistant to wear

Common Uses

Cladding, decking, flooring, panelling, structural framing furniture

Flooring, cabinetry, high-end furniture, tool handles, decking, fencing