Wood is a prevalent building material that is commonly used indoors, outdoors, and in the production of high-quality furniture. It is obtained from forests worldwide and comes in various types, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. Gaining knowledge about different wood varieties can assist in choosing the most suitable type for future woodworking endeavors.
If you are planning to add a deck or fence, it is important to ensure that the wood used is resistant to water, rot, and insects in order to prevent the need for replacement within a short period of time.
When you engage in activities such as building furniture or installing a new floor, it is recommended to conduct research on the specific wood you intend to use. This research will serve as a basis for making an educated choice regarding your construction materials. Refer to this guide for a comprehensive understanding of the 16 types of wood that individuals involved in do-it-yourself projects should be familiar with.
5. Cherry
Cherry trees can meet your needs, whether you are in search of a convenient snack or engaged in the construction of upscale furniture. Cherry wood boasts a reddish-brown to blond color and displays fine, straight grain lines. These commonly cultivated trees thrive in the Midwest and eastern regions of the United States, growing to a maximum height of approximately 35 feet.
This hardwood is appealing for furniture production, cabinetry, paneling, and flooring due to its uniform appearance resulting from tight grain patterns. When stained and sealed, it provides a smooth finish and can be utilized in making musical instruments. Additionally, cherry wood is frequently chosen for wood carving projects due to its excellent response to sharp milling tools.
6. Mahogany
The most well-known wood names among people are undoubtedly those of mahogany. This wood derives from the mahogany tree, a high-quality hardwood found in West Africa, the West Indies, as well as Central and South America.
The height of the tree can reach up to 150 feet, and it yields wood that is exceptionally smooth and strong, typically having a rich or brown-red color. Mahogany, being a dense type of wood, is known for its resistance against rot and insect damage. Additionally, it is resistant to shrinking, swelling, and warping.
Due to these characteristics, mahogany is a favored material for superior furniture, cabinetry, built-ins, and top-notch flooring.
7. Pine
Pine, which is obtained from different species of pine trees found in various regions globally, is a soft wood. Depending on the specific species, it may exhibit a pale or yellowish appearance. Moreover, pine is considered a less dense wood that does not provide significant protection against decay and insect infestations. Additionally, pine is susceptible to cupping or warping.
Due to its abundance of knots, pine wood, including varieties known as ‘knotty pine,’ is an excellent option for rustic furniture, shelving, decking, and wall paneling.
8. Redwood
Despite its popular nickname, sequoia, redwood is seldom included in the list of commonly known wood types. This is because redwood trees, which are acknowledged as the tallest trees globally, can reach an impressive height of 400 feet.
Redwood, with its varying species, exhibits a color range from light white or yellow to red and reddish-brown. Moreover, this wood is remarkably soft and lightweight, characterized by a rough texture. It is highly regarded for its ability to resist rot and insects, making it an excellent option for outdoor projects like fences, exterior furniture, decks, and veneers.
9. Oak
Oak, which is a sought-after hardwood, is derived from oak trees that typically thrive in the United States and numerous other regions across the globe. Red and white are the two types of oak, both of which exhibit high density and durability with a rough, straight-grained texture.
The white type is recognized for its fleck, which is a wavy and contrasting pattern that becomes visible when it is being sawed. Oak is also highly regarded for its ability to resist rot and bugs, and it has a tendency to bend easily, making it an ideal option for crafting boats and wine barrels.
In addition to that, oak is utilized for making furniture, flooring, millwork, and cabinetry.
10. Teak
Teak is highly sought after in the market due to its impressive appearance and exceptional strength, making it one of the most favored hardwoods. The teak tree, found primarily in southern Asia, is the source of this wood, but it is also cultivated in African, Latin American, and other tropical regions.
Teak contains natural oils that repel water and insects. Teak and mahogany have many similarities, but they can be distinguished by their colors: teak is brown whereas mahogany is typically reddish.
Teak is primarily utilized in the boatmaking industry but is also a favored choice for creating furniture, carvings, and other carpentry projects.
11. Walnut
The black walnut tree, which is commonly found in the eastern United States, is a source of walnut, a well-liked type of wood. Walnut wood, known for its rich chocolatey color, is typically straight-grained with intermittent waves and contrasting patterns. These walnut trees can reach a height of up to 120 feet.
Walnut, which ranges in color from light brown to deep chocolate, possesses exceptional resistance to rot but is susceptible to insect attacks. It is frequently employed in the construction of medium- to high-quality furniture, cabinetry, gunstocks, and turned items.
12. Maple
Maple, a hardwood that comes from the less popular variety of red maple tree known as rock or sugar maple, is the most widespread tree species in the U.S. Its color ranges from white and yellow to a deep golden hue.
Maple wood has a smooth and fine texture, which gives it a popular appeal for a variety of applications such as veneers, baseball bats, musical instruments, flooring, and more. Its grain is predominantly straight and often displayed in light brown bands.
