Hardwoods and Softwoods

Hardwoods and Softwoods

1. Hardwoods

   • Oak
     • Strong
     • Hard
     • tough
     • works well
     • durable
     • expensive
     • heavy
     • prone to splittling
     • physically hard
   • Mahogany
     • easy to work
     • durable
     • finishes well
     • variable grain
     • prone to warping
     • physical hardness varies
   • Beech
     • physically hard
     • tough
     • polishes well
     • prone to warping
     • not suitable for outdoor applications
     • can be difficult to work
     • E.g.workshop benches, school desks, furniture

2. Softwoods

   • Pine
     • straight grain
     • easy to work
     • knots make working difficult
     • E.g. construction, roof joists, floorboards, furniture