Engineered Wood Flooring Advantages and Disadvantages

engineered wood hardwood flooring advantages and disadvantages

engineered wood hardwood flooring advantages and disadvantages

Engineered wood is increasingly becoming the best alternative to solid wood for those who either prefer a more attractive, customisable option or want a cheaper option for wooden flooring in their homes and offices. There are many engineered wood flooring advantages and disadvantages while using. We’ll discuss them in detail here. But, first things first.

What is Engineered wood?

Engineered wood is an artificial wood that is manufactured using solid wood and other products. It can also be understood as a layered wood product that contains solid wood along with a highly durable plywood core.

In some cases, engineered wood is ever stronger and more durable than some solid woods. There are different types of engineered wood, including plywood, medium density fiberboard (MDF), low density fiberboard, oriented strand board (OSB), etc. Plywood is among the most durable and popular types of engineered wood.

Engineered Wood for Flooring

The use of wood for flooring is not new. For many decades, even centuries, people have been using wooden flooring in their homes and workplaces. Wooden floorings are not only attractive but also they can give your place a natural, scenic feel. Also, many people find wooden flooring amazing to walk on.

Engineered wood flooring can be of many types, based on the type and quality of materials used. The layers in a manufactured wood are glued together at a 90° angle and under specific heating and pressure conditions to achieve the desired product.

For whatever reason you are planning to use engineered wood flooring, here’s a detailed discussion on engineered wood flooring advantages and disadvantages for you to know before installing the floor.

Like any other type of flooring, engineered wood floors have some pros and cons of their own. Of course, it is not as good as real solid wood, but it’s the second-best.

Advantages of Engineered Wood Flooring

1. Looks Like Wood

The biggest advantage of using engineered wood for flooring is that your floors will give the appearance of real, solid wood at a much lower cost. Besides that, the engineered wood flooring is also more durable.

2. No Expansion or Shrinkage like Wood

While real wood might shrink and expand under certain temperature conditions, engineered wood has no such problem; it always maintains its size and shape.

3. Easy, Quick & Cheap Installation

Engineered wood flooring is easy to install and take care of. Also, the installation will cost much less as compared to traditional flooring because of the reduced labour needs. Homeowners with basic woodworking knowledge can install their own wood flooring.

4. Save Money

One of the biggest advantage of using engineered wood in place of solid wood is, of course, the price. Because many of the popular wood species are high in demand and limited in supply, they can be very costly to buy. Some of the rare wood species like African Blackwood, Brazilian Walnut, Ebony, etc. are really pricey and simply not affordable for everyone. (Contact Cameroontimberexportsarl for wholesale prices of popular hardwoods).

Engineered wood, though not as good as solid wood, can be equally great in appearance and properties. The thing to note is that engineered wood flooring costs much less than solid wood flooring.

5. Can be Polished and Re-Finished

It is easy to refinish or polish engineered wood flooring as and when needed. And because it is easy, you can do it yourself without needing an expert. This is why engineered wood is easy and inexpensive to maintain.

6. Strong and Durable

Engineered wood can be strong and very durable, depending on the type. Plywoods, for example, are available in many grades based on strength and durability. Some of them are even resistant to fire and a variety of natural and commercial environments. Some engineered wood flooring will easily last for 20-30 years.

Other benefits of engineered wood flooring include easy availability, low price, safe and non-toxic, among others.

Disadvantages of Engineered Wood Flooring

There are some limitations as well of using engineered wood for flooring in homes and offices, such as:

1. Lower Quality Than Real Wood

Of course, manufactured wood is not always as good as real wood, which is why one should only buy engineered wood from a trusted supplier like CameroonTimberExportSarl.

2. Too Thin Top Layer

The top layer of engineered wood flooring is made of solid wood. The thicker and stronger the top layer, the better the wood flooring. However, some low-quality flooring will have a very thin top layer with limited opportunities for refinishing and sanding.

3. Fading in Exterior Use

Another disadvantage of engineered wood flooring is when used outside will eventually start fading in constant exposure to sun, heat and weather conditions.

4. Prone to Termite Attack

Low-quality engineered wood can be easily infected by termites, especially if it is not pre-treated. If the core wood has excess moisture, the probability of termite attack is even higher.

5. Not Water Resistant

Not all engineered woods are water-resistant. In fact, many of them will be instantly affected by water and can have significant damage in no time. That’s why it’s important to choose high-quality engineered wood flooring that is also water-resistant.

Conclusion

In the end, after a detailed discussion on engineered wood flooring advantages and disadvantages, we discovered that a engineered wood makes the best alternative to solid wood for flooring. It is cheaper, easier to use and maintain and can have equally great strength and durability as real wood. However, one must choose engineered wood carefully because there are so many varieties and grades available in the market.

Need help choosing the right wood for your flooring project? Contact CameroonTimberExportSarl to explore our high-quality timber and engineered wood options and get the best price in the market with doorstep delivery anywhere in the world. Call us today +237 671 77 6559 to know more.

 

Pine vs Poplar Wood: 5 Key Differences Everyone Should Know About

pine wood vs poplar wood

pine vs poplar wood

Poplar and pine wood are two of the most common types of wood used for furniture and other standard wood projects. The reasons why these two timber species are famous include their overall above average characteristics, easy availability and low cost.

If you are confused between pine and poplar timber for your upcoming project, here’s everything you need to know about these two wood species in order to determine the best timber option for your project.

What is Pine Wood?

pine wood
Pine is a softwood in the genus Pinus of the family Pinaceae. There are many species of pine, with red pine, white pine, yellow pine, longleaf pine, shortleaf pine, etc. being the most popular ones. Pine is a softwood but can be considerably hard and durable and therefore suitable for many projects ranging from furniture making to construction, boat making, interior furnishing and others.

Despite being a softwood, pine is strong. It’s not very heavy and has average durability. Pine wood is a pale yellow to light brown in color (darker species are also available). It’s generally easy to work with and is timber of choice for woodworkers around the world.

What is Poplar Wood?

poplar wood
Poplar or Populus is a deciduous flowering plant in the family Salicaceae. These plants have about 25-30 species, most of them are found in the Northern Hemisphere. Though poplar is hardwood, it is rather soft and light in weight. Poplar trees grow very fast and have a higher average height than pine trees. They can easily last for up to 100 years or more.

Poplar wood is a pale yellow to yellowish-brown. Because it is very light and has no durability, it is primarily used for making paper, matchboxes and cheap furniture items.

Pine Vs Poplar: A Brief Comparison

Let’s now compare pine and poplar wood in terms of uses, characteristics, strength, durability, and other properties.

1.Uses

Poplar is primarily used for making paper. A lot of wood is required to make paper and because poplar grows very fast and is easily available, it is the best wood for the purpose. Other uses of poplar include cheap hardwood timber, cheap plywood, electric guitars, drums and decorative items. Poplar tree bark is sometimes used to tan leather because of its high tannic acid content.

Pinewood is one of the most commonly used timbers around the world. It is used for everything from making furniture to panelling, flooring, roofing, window frames, structures, and more. Some species of pine are used to make decorative items. Living pine nuts obtained from certain species are used for cooking. Because pine has low durability and insect resistance, it is often treated before use for exterior applications.

2.Color & Appearance

Poplar is lighter in color. Its color can be white to yellowish cream or brown with occasional grey streaks, depending on the species. The sapwood of poplar is lighter than the heartwood but not always clearly distinguishable. The wood has a straight grain with a uniform, medium texture.

Pinewood is most commonly available in white to reddish-brown color. The heartwood is generally darker than the sapwood and easy to identify. Pinewood color will darken with age. The wood has a straight grain with a medium texture.

3.Strength & Durability

Poplar is not very durable. In fact, it will damage easily and can be dented and scratched. This is one of the reasons why poplar is not very suitable for commercial applications. Poplar is not strong.

Pine, in general, is more durable than poplar. It is also stronger and therefore suitable for a range of applications where poplar is not recommended. However, pine is not as strong as many hardwoods. For example, oak is a more preferred (but costlier) option for making strong furniture that will last decades.

4.Workability

Because poplar is soft and less dense, it is easy to work with hands and tools. Also, it cuts, glues and finishes well. Prior drilling is not required for screwing and nailing. Also, the poplar wood is easy to carve and turn. Because it has plenty of moisture in it, the wood will shrink when drying.

Pinewood is soft. It is denser and heavier than poplar, but it is easy to work with. It cuts, glues and finishes well and is easy to nail and screw with or without drilling.

5.Hardness: Pine vs Poplar Wood

The best way to determine the hardness of wood is the Janka rating, which refers to the “force required to embed an 11.28-millimeter-diameter steel ball halfway into a sample of wood.”

In the case of poplar species, yellow poplar has the highest Janka rating of 540 lbf (2,400 N). White poplar with a Janka rating of 410 lbf (1,820 N) is less hard. Balsam poplar with 300 lbf Janka rating is softer than both.

Pinewood species are generally harder than poplar. Longleaf Pine with an 870 lbf (4,120) Janka rating is the hardest pinewood of all species. Radiata Pine with a 710 lbf Janka rating is the next best.

Pine Vs Poplar: Which to Buy?

In terms of characteristics like hardness, strength, durability, etc., Pine is the clear winner. However, if you are looking for a more affordable and easily available option than pinewood, you can consider poplar as well. Ultimately, which wood you should choose will depend on what you are going to use it for.

Buy the best timber online at competitive prices with doorstep delivery anywhere in the world

Need help selecting the right timber for your project? Contact us today to talk to our experts. If you are looking to buy the best quality timber at wholesale price for your project, call CameroonTimberExportSarl for the best quote. We ship to all major countries and cities.

Properties of Softwood: Spruce Vs Pine A Detailed Comparison

properties of softwood

properties of softwood
Though softwoods are generally considered soft and less durable, this isn’t always the case. Many softwood species, including pine, cedar and redwood, are widely used in a variety of projects ranging from furniture making to construction, card boxes, boats, and more.

If you are looking to know more about softwoods or need help choosing the right softwood species for your next project, you’re at the right place. Here’s everything you need to know about the properties of softwood.

Choosing the right type of softwood is important for many reasons. It is good to have at least the basic idea of how certain wood will behave under different conditions, which largely depends on the specific properties of the wood.

Because spruce and pine are two of the most commonly used types of softwood, we will discuss the properties of these two softwood species in detail here.

What Affects The Properties of Softwood

The properties of wood depend on many things, including the species, of course. But, the woods coming from different trees of the same species may also differ in properties if they have been grown in different locations. In fact, the wood produced from the different parts of the same trees can also have different properties. For example, wood extracted from close to the pith will have different properties than the wood taken out from the bark.

Other things that affect the properties of softwood include the growth rings, wood knots, fibre distortions, height of the tree, springwood, summerwood, etc.

Common Properties of Softwood

There are some properties that are common to all softwood timbers. For example, all softwoods are extracted from confers, i.e. trees that have cones. Normally, their leaves are needle-shaped and remain on the trees all year round. Softwoods generally have lower densities and are softer as compared to hardwoods, but not always. They are often light in colour.

Also, softwoods normally have a shorter growth period, i.e. they grow quicker than hardwoods and are easily and widely available at a cheaper price. Because they have low density, softwoods are easier to work with.

Properties of Softwood: Spruce Timber

Spruce is primarily used in construction. Other uses include flooring, packaging, stringed instruments, paper pulp, crates, and millwork.

The spruce heartwood colour is yellowish white or brown. It has a fine, even texture. The grain is straight. It is generally non-resistant to decay and is non-durable. Spruce timber is easy to work with and cuts, glues and finishes well. In terms of strength, the wood is medium hard with elastic characteristics.

Technical Properties of Spruce:

Moisture content (%) – 12
Basic density (kg/m3) – 380
Density (kg/m3) – 440
Tensile strength (MPa) – 90
Bending strength (MPa) – 75
Shear strength(MPa) – 9
Impact strength (KJ/m2) – 50
Hardness(Brinell) – 3,2
Modulus of elasticity (MPa) – 11 000
Thermal conductivity (W/m ̊ C) – 0,24
Heat capacity (J/kg ̊ C) – 1 650

Properties of Softwood: Pine Timber

Pine softwood is used in different applications, including joinery, mouldings, furniture, internal cladding, flooring, veneering, boats, and others.

Pine wood is medium hard and is widely used as a cheaper alternative to many hardwoods for construction and furniture making. Because pine colour will go darker over time, it is specially treated to retain its colour. Also, treated pine is more durable and resistant to insects, termites and moisture.

Technical properties of Pine:

Moisture content (%) – 12
Basic density (kg/m3) – 420
Density (kg/m3) – 470
Tensile strength (MPa) – 104
Bending strength (MPa) – 87
Shear strength(MPa) – 10
Impact strength (KJ/m2)– 70
Hardness(Brinell)– 4
Modulus of elasticity (MPa) – 12 000
Thermal conductivity (W/m ̊ C) – 0,26
Heat capacity (J/kg ̊ C) – 1 650

Spruce Vs. Pine

Though both spruce and pine are softwoods, their properties differ in many terms. Not only do the woods look different from each other, but they also have different physical properties. Pine, for instance, has a more reddish colour, while the colour of the Spruce timber is light yellowish brown. The growth rings in pine are stronger and denser than spruce. Also, pine is easier to work with and does not tear out even with the knots. Pine is harder and more durable when compared to spruce.

Conclusion

Not all softwoods have the same properties, which is why it is crucial to compare different wood timbers in order to find the right fit for your particular project. Pine and Spruce are just two of the many softwoods available in the market. So, always explore all your options and do your research before selecting the right wood.

Need help? We at CameroonTimberExportSarl have more than three decades of experience in timber harvesting, woodworking and consulting. We are a leading supplier and importer of softwood and hardwood timber in 30+ countries across Latin America, Asia, Europe, Saudi Arabia and other parts of the world. Whether you need help selecting the right softwood timber for your project or are looking for the best place to buy quality timber at the lowest price, feel free to contact CameroonTimberExportSarl.

Balsa Wood: Properties, Characteristics & Uses

balsa wood properties

balsa wood properties

Balsa, commonly known as Ochroma, is a hardwood native to the tropical forests of the Americas. Balsa trees are also grown on plantations in many countries including Papua New Guinea, Solomon Islands, Indonesia, Thailand, etc. Despite being hardwood, Balsa is rather soft and light and these properties of balsa wood makes it suitable for a large variety of applications ranging from model building to construction of boats and aircrafts, furniture making, insulation, sports parts construction, musical instruments, carving and more.

Whether you are looking to purchase Balsa wood or are just curious about this harwood’s properties and uses, here you can read everything you need to know about Balsa wood.

Balsa Wood Properties

balsa wood properties

Balsa trees grow fast and will usually reach a height of 18-28 m. They have a trunk diameter of around 1-1.2 meter. A typical Balsa tree takes about 10-15 years to fully grow. They start flowering in the third year. Though these trees are native to America’s tropical regions, they can also be found in many other countries.

Strength, density and durability: Balsa has a Janka rating of 67 lbf, which is typically low for a hardwood. The average dried weight is 9 lbs/ft3. Balsa is lightweight and not very hard. It is prone to insect attacks and has low durability.

Color: Balsa heartwood is easily distinguishable from the sapwood. While the heartwood is pale reddish brown, the sapwood is white or off-white with a pink yellowish hue.

Because Balsa is soft, it’s use in commercial lumber is not very common.

Grain & Texture: Balsa wood features a straight grain and may have a medium or coarse texture. The wood is diffuse-porous and will generally have large pores.

Workability: Balsa is generally easy to work with. Because it is soft, it cuts easily and causes no blunting or dulling effect on cutters. It does not hold nails easily, which is why glue is used for joining. The wood stains well but can take a huge amount of paint to finish because of its liquid absorbing nature.

Availability & price: Balsa is easily available and moderately priced. However, high-quality Balsa wood can be difficult to find in typica hardwood stores and can cost more at specialty stores.

Common Uses of Balsa Wood

Though Balsa is very soft and light, it is reasonably strong, which makes it suitable for a range of works. Low density Balsa is high in demand. It is primarily used in model building, i.e. to build models and proptypes for bridges, aircrafts and other projects where high strength and bending abilities are needed. It is also sometimes used in building full-sized wooden airplanes because of its light weight and high strength.

Balsa was first used in aircraft building in the second world war, as it was a component of the de Havilland Mosquito aircraft created by Britain during the war. Other than aircraft building, Balsa wood is also largely used in building boats that are light in weight.

Balsa is also commonly used for building plywoods that are both stronger and lighter than regular woods.

Other than that, Balsa timber wood is used for making wooden crankbaits, for insulation in houses with damp walls and sometimes in refrigerators, to make breakable furniture (for use in films and karate), and to build sports parts including badminton rackets and musical instruments such as violin. Balsa is also used for carving. Because the wood is soft, it carves easily.

Advantages & Disadvantages of Balsa Wood

When choosing wood for your project, make sure to also check the various advantages and disadvantages of that wood to know whether it is perfect for your particular needs. Here are the different pros and cons of Balsa wood.

Pros (Why use Ochroma wood)

  • It is a light wood and ideal for model making.
  • It is light and therefore perfect for making boats.
  • Balsa trees grow fast, which is why they are a common choice for plantation.
  • It is affordable and easily available.
  • It is fairly strong for its density and weight.
  • Balsa stains, cuts, glues and finishes well.

Cons

  • Balsa is not a very durable wood. It is not suitable for making heavy-use and outdoor furniture.
  • The wood burns quickly if exposed to fire.
  • It is susceptible to insect attacks.

Balsa wood comes in different grades. The properties of the wood also depend on how it is cut. For example, A-grain Balsa has the best bending properties, while C-grain wood offers better stiffness.

Need help choosing the right wood for your project? Contact us today for a free on-call consultation. If you are looking to buy Balsa wood, contact CameroonTimberExportSarl for the best price. We ship to all countries and cities around the world.

What Is the Hardest/Strongest Wood in the World?

hardest wood in the world

hardest wood in world

Strength is one of the primary factors to consider when selecting the right wood for a project. Based on hardness, all woods are loosely divided into two categories – hardwoods and softwoods. However, not all hardwoods are necessarily hard and not all softwoods are soft. Balsa wood, for instance, is a hardwood but is actually very soft and light.

So, when you are looking for a wood that is actually strong and hard, look beyond just hardwoods and softwoods.

The Janka Hardness Test is the most common method for determining the hardness of wood. It involves forcing a small steel ball into the wood using external pressure/force. The force required (in lbf or N) to inject exactly half of the ball into the wood is that wood’s hardness. Based on the Janka test, Australian Buloke with a 5,060 IBF Janka rating is the hardest wood in the world.

As for the wood strength, that is determined by more than one factor, including the wood’s density, durability, hardness, compressive strength, bending strength, etc.

The strength of wood primarily depends on its density. The more fibers a wood has in a given area, the stronger is the wood. Wood doesn’t always have the same strength across its body and is generally the strongest in the direction of the grain.

Why is Wood Hardness Measurement Important?

For most projects, the hardness of wood is a primary factor for selection. While some projects require woods that are strong and very hard, others can do with soft or less strong woods. Stronger woods are generally more expensive than softer woods because of their higher demand. So, if a woodworker can manage with less strong wood, he/she will have to pay less. However, some projects like outdoor furniture must be made from strong and durable wood.

The wood hardness rating helps determine the durability of wood samples along with their resistance to specific conditions such as moisture, insect attacks, wear, and denting, which is an important criteria for wood selection.

List of 10 Hardest Wood in the world

Let’s get straight to the point . Well, according to Wikipedia and many other sources, Australian buloke with a Janka rating of 5,060 lbf is the hardest wood in the world. However, Eric Meier of The Wood Database believes differently. According to him, the actual Janka rating of Australian buloke is 3,760 lbf (16,740 N), which makes it one of the hardest woods in the world, but not the hardest.

So, which is the hardest wood in the world? Well, according to the Wood Database, QUEBRACHO (Schinopsis spp.) has a Janka rating of 4,570 LBF (20,340 N), which makes it officially the hardest wood. However, the doubt remains. Because many other wood experts still believe Australian buloke to be the wood with the highest Janka rating.

Ok, which wood is the next best?

Here’s the list of the top hardest or strongest woods in the world by Janka Rating:

1. Australian Buloke (5,060 lbf)

Grows primarily in Australia (Eastern and Southern parts of the country). It is unofficially known as the strongest wood in the world because of its high Janka rating.

2. Schinopsis Brasiliensis (4,800 lbf)

The wood is obtained from a flowering tree that primarily grows in Brazil. The wood is extremely tough with a Janka rating of 4,800 lbf. It is sometimes considered the hardest timber in the world and is used exclusively in construction because of its outstanding strength and hardness.

3. Schinopsis Balansae (4,570 lbf)

Schinopsis balansae is a hardwood that is obtained from a tree that can sometimes reach up to 24 meter in height. These trees cover most forest parts in Argentina and Paraguay. Considered as one of the hardest woods on the planet, this wood has a Janka rating of 4,570 lbf.

4. Lignum Vitae (4,500 lbf)

Lignum vitae is famously called a trade wood because of its high trade demand. It is obtained from the Guaiacum genus trees which grow exclusively in the Caribbean and some parts of South America. The wood has a Janka hardness rating of 4,500 lbf and is strong, tough and very dense. It is also very durable and is naturally resistant to moisture.

5. Piptadenia Macrocarpa (3,840 lbf)

With a Janka hardness rating of 3,840 lbf, Piptadenia Macrocarpa is one of the toughest woods in the world. It grows mainly in Argentina, Peru and Bolivia and is primarily used for construction purposes.

6. Snakewood (3,800 IBF)

Called so because of its unique snake-like appearance, Snakewood has a recorded Janka rating of 3,800 lbf. It is native to South America and used in a range of projects that require high strength and density. It is also commonly sold and used as an exotic wood species.

7. Brazilian Olivewood (3,700 IBF)

Brazilian Olivewood is a wood that is both hard and exotic. This makes it a common choice for a variety of wood projects, ranging from construction to furniture making and more. Native to Brazil, the wood is very strong, tough and equally beautiful.

8. Brazilian Ebony (3,692 IBF)

This type of Ebony grows mainly in Brazil, Paraguay and Argentina and is known for its outstanding hardness and durability. In addition, the wood is also shock-resistant, which makes it suitable for everything from construction to decking, and more.

9. Brazilian Walnut (3,684 IBF)

Brazilian walnut is obtained from Central and South America and has a Janka rating of 3,684 lbf. The wood is strong with a straight to interlocked grain. It is used for a number of outdoor and indoor woodworking projects worldwide.

10. African Pearwood (3,680 IBF)

Native to Africa, the African Pearwood is obtained from trees that grow primarily in Angola, Cameroon, Gabon, Nigeria and the Republic of Congo. It has a Janka rating of 3,680 lbf and is considered one of the strongest woods in Africa.

Looking to buy the best hardwood at a reasonable price or need help selecting the right wood for your project? Contact us at CameroonTimberExportSarl for free timber consultation along with the best price for premium grade, sustainably-sourced hardest woods in the world.

MDF vs Plywood : A Comprehensive Comparison

difference between plywood and mdf

difference between plywood and mdf

>MDF vs  plywood, here are two of the most popular types of engineered wood. Both types of wood are engineered, i.e. synthetically manufactured using wood and other materials. Both are suitable to be used for a variety of projects and have their own advantages and disadvantages. If you are finding it difficult to choose the best engineered wood for your project, here’s a detailed guide about MDF and plywood along with the difference between the two to help you make the right selection.

When you are ready to buy, contact us at CameroonTimberExportSarl to enquire about the best price for MDF and plywood. We are a leading supplier and exporter of top quality engineered wood and solid wood in 20+ countries around the world.

MDF or plywood is a less expensive alternative to solid wood, which is considered the best option for woodworking. However, because of the lack of availability and high price of natural wood, people opt for options like engineered wood which can be as good for a variety of projects ranging from furniture to flooring and more.

Before we start talking about the difference between MDF and plywood, let’s first get to know the basics of these two types of engineered wood.

What is MDF?

MDF or medium-density fiberboard is an engineered wood board made up of small softwood and hardwood fibres. Since there is no real wood involved, the MDF boards have no visible grain or knots. Wood fibres along with glue or wax are joined under specific pressure and heating conditions to achieve a strong and somewhat durable board that is cheaper than both plywood and solid wood but stronger than particleboard.

MDF board is smooth, looks beautiful and is easy to cut and carve. However, it can easily soak moisture, especially when not treated and sealed well. It is dense, and therefore heavy. It is not easy to screw and may get damaged easily without proper care.

What is Plywood?

Plywood is a type of engineered wood that is made by combining thin layers of wood, called veneers, using high-quality glue or other adhesives. Plywood is strong, hard and durable to moisture. It does not soak water and is somewhat resistant to insect attacks. Depending on the type of wood sheets used, plywood can be available in different grades. Plywoods are suitable for both indoor and outdoor projects, including flooring, high-quality furniture, and others.

Unlike MDF, plywood does not absorb water and is less prone to damage. It is easier to work with and glues and stains well. Also, it holds screws tightly and can be seamlessly customised in different designs and thicknesses.

Plywood can be expensive, with some premium grade plywoods being as expensive as solid wood. They must be finished well to hire the visible layers and grain on the surface. Also, plywood cannot be used to carve designs because it doesn’t have a smooth surface.

MDF vs Plywood

Though we have already discussed the basic difference between MDF and plywood above, here’s a quick look at some other things to help you make the right selection.

MDF Plywood
Strength High High
Durability Moderate> High
Moisture resistance Low Moderate
What is it made of? Wood fibres Wood sheets/plies
Cost Low Higher
Ease of use Easy Easy
Screwing Bad Good
Surface Smooth with no grain Less smooth with visible grain and layers

 

Common uses of MDF include bookshelves, cabinets, doors, door frames and other indoor projects.

Popular uses of plywood include furniture (bed frames, sofa, tabletop, chairs, etc.), flooring, roofing, and a variety of outdoor projects.

While MDF is made primarily of hardwood and softwood fibres, plywood is made of very thin layers of wood obtained from logs. It is generally cheaper than plywood. It weighs more than plywood, which can be an issue when working with it. Plywood is stronger than MDF and doesn’t sag, split, expand, contract or warp. Because MDF is made up of wood fibres, it creates more dust when cut, but it’s easier to cut than plywood, which doesn’t cut well in fancy curves. It looks great when painted, while plywood is generally stained to achieve the desired finish. Because plywood is more durable, it is perfect for outdoor projects.

These are the basic differences or comparison ( MDF vs Plywood ) and if you are looking to buy top-quality plywood at the best price in the market, contact CameroonTimberExportSarl.

How To Buy Best Quality Plywood & MDF

plywood & wood boards

Choose from diffrent types of plywood such as 3-ply, 5-ply or multi-ply and various types of wood boards according to your requirement at affordable prices. At CameroonTimberExportSarl, We can provide plywood and other types of engineered wood in your desired grade with both standard and custom dimensions as required for your project. You can order plywood and medium density wood board in bulk quantity at the best price with free shipping facility worldwide. Contact us to know more, on our official mail or you can directly reach us at +237671776559 for all your wood related needs.

What Are the Different Types of Manufactured Boards?

different types of manufactured boards

different types of manufactured boards

When looking to buy wood for your project, you have two options – buy solid wood timber or go with manufactured wood. Of course, buying and using solid wood is generally a costlier option. Moreover, in some cases, manufactured wood turn out to be better or more durable than real wood. If you are looking to learn about the different types of manufactured boards, here you go.

What is Manufactured Wood?

As the name suggests, manufactured wood is a type of wood that is manufactured and is not naturally produced solid wood. Manufacture boards are made by combining different wood pieces along with glue and other things to produce a stable and possibly more durable piece of wood. The best thing about manufactured wood is that it costs less than natural solid wood but can be as strong and durable. It is ideal for a variety of woodworking projects ranging from construction to furniture making, flooring and others.

In order to select the right manufactured boards, you must about the different types of manufactured wood boards along with their qualities and drawbacks,

Types of Manufactured Boards

The Most Common Types of Manufactures Boards Include:

  • Plywood
  • Particleboard/ Chipboard
  • Fiberboard
  • MDF (Medium Density Fiberboard)
  • Veneer

Plywood

Plywood
Plywood is manufactured by combining alternate layers of wood such that their grain is at right angles to each other. The result is a very strong and durable wood with high resistance to tearing. The layers in plywood are combined under high pressure and controlled heat conditions to achieve a robust product. Waterproof glue is used to manufacture plywood that is water-resistant and can be used outside. Depending on the material used, plywood is available in different types, including veneered plywood and marine plywood.

Particleboard / Chipboard

chipboard
Particleboard, as the name suggests, is made from wood particles or smaller wood pieces. The wood pieces are joined together with adhesives under extreme heating and pressure conditions to form a wood board that is uniquely strong in all directions. Particleboards are less expensive than plywood or natural wood. To add further strength and durability to particleboards, they are often coated with melamine or finished with wood veneer.

Fiberboard

fiberboard
Wood fibre produced from mills and other construction sites is combined and glued together in a specific board shape using a synthetic resin-based adhesive, which results in a strong wood board that is moderately strong and resistant to breaking. Low-density fiberboard (LDF), medium-density fiberboard (MDF), and high-density fiberboard (HDF) are the common types of fiberboard.

MDF (Medium Density Fiberboard)

Medium Density Fiberboard
Medium-density fiberboard is both strong and affordable. It has good density and can be as strong as plywood. MDF is commonly used for building furniture parts such as drawers, and tables for office and dining. It is not water-resistant and not suitable to use outside, however, MDF has decent durability and strength and can be used the same as solid wood for a range of projects.

Veneer

veneer
Veneer is a thin layer of wood that is generally added to manufactured boards like particleboard or MDF to enhance their strength and make them more durable and resistant to moisture, termites, etc. It also helps give manufactured boards a more natural, wood-like finish.

Some other, lesser-known types of manufactured boards include blackboard, hardboard and insulation board.

Blockboard

blockboard
Blockboard is generally used as a cost-effective alternative to plywood, especially for applications needing boards of higher thickness. It is formed by combining a solid timber core with two outer facing veneers such that their grain is at right angles and form a solid, strong product.

Hardboard

hardboard
Hardboards are made from wood fibre, which is pressed between hot plates to produce large, thin grainless sheets that are generally used for making inexpensive furniture like cabinets.

Insulation Board

insulation board
Insulation board is a manufactured board that is primarily used on indoor walls for the purpose of providing insulation against heat and sound. It is made from wood pulp and is weak and with low density.

So, now that you know all about the different types of manufactured boards, are you ready to buy the best wood board for your project? Have questions or need help? Contact us at CameroonTimberExportSarl to enquire about the best wood timber for indoor/outdoor projects or to buy the best quality wood at the lowest price in the market. We deal in a wide variety of manufactured boards, including laminated chipboard, plywood, wood chips and more and deliver to all major countries in Asia, Europe, Africa and America.

Latest Wood Products Offered by CameroonTimberExportSarl

new wood products

new wood products

CameroonTimberExportSarl is a leading supplier, exporter and manufacturer of wood timber and logs in the Middle East, Australia, Europe, Latin America and other parts of the world. We not only supply wood but also provide various timber-related services as well as sell a range of related products including wood boards, plywood and tree products such as walnut kernel and in-shell walnuts.

Lately, many new products have been added to the CameroonTimberExportSarl website, and this article aims to educate people about these products including the process to order them. As a full-service wood manufacturing and supplier company, CameroonTimberExportSarl aims to become a one-stop solution for all types of wood products and related services, from timber production to wood harvesting, processing, drying, treatment and transportation.

Here are the latest wood and other products you can buy on the CameroonTimberExportSarl website.

Wood Boards

wood boards

Wood boards are custom-made flat, rectangular pieces of wood that are designed for a particular use. In general, wood logs are cut into timber, which are like small boards. Wood boards are bigger in size and are made either from timber or directly from wood logs. Composite wood boards made of wood pieces in combination with other materials like fibre, glue, veneer, etc. are also quite popular these days.

Wood boards are extensively used in furniture making, construction, flooring, tabletops, and a range of other applications.

While natural wood boards are made of solid wood, engineered or manufactured boards are made of composite wood. Fibreboards, particleboard, laminated boards, MDF, etc. are common examples of engineered wood boards. Boards made of softwood are called softwood boards and the ones made of hardwood are called hardwood boards.

To buy premium quality wood boards, both solid and engineered boards, contact CameroonTimberExportSarl for the best price. Special offers are applicable for bulk orders.

Plywood

Plywood

 

Plywood is engineered wood made from veneers called plies. These plies or thin layers of veneer are attached together using a powerful glue to make a robust, highly durable and strong solid wood product.

Plywood is available in the form of wood boards and comes in a variety of dimensions suitable for different purposes ranging from flooring and roofing to furniture making, cabinets, and general construction. Plywood can be of different types such as softwood, hardwood, flexible plywood, tropical plywood, aircraft plywood, decorative plywood, marine plywood, etc.

Buy top-quality plywood in custom dimensions and sizes and at the guaranteed best price from CameroonTimberExportSarl and get doorstep delivery anywhere in the world. We have plywood available in a range of wood species and huge amounts. All wood products are sustainably produced and processed at the company mill. Contact us today to enquire more.

Other Than Wood

Besides solid wood, timber, plywood and wood boards, we at CameroonTimberExportSarl also sell and supply various outside wood products including walnut kernels and in-shell walnut.

Walnut Kernels

walnut kernels
Walnut kernels are the dry fruits produced from a walnut tree. They are naturally covered in a hard brown coat, and the inner part or the fruit is called the walnut kernel. Walnut kernels are extensively used as dry fruits in dishes, juices, shakes, and directly. They are a great source of antioxidants and omega-3s and can help with a number of health-related issues including inflammation, cancer, overweight, type 2 diabetes and others.

Depending on the type of tree and the location, walnut can greatly vary in quality and size. Eating the best quality walnut is important for all-round benefits. Here at CameroonTimberExportSarl we now supply premium quality walnut kernels produced from some of the finest locations around the world. We sell walnut kernels in bulk and at the lowest price in the market. To buy the best quality walnut kernels, contact us today.

Inshell Walnuts

inshell walnuts

Looking to buy inshell walnuts or whole walnuts at the best price in the market? We sell in-shell walnuts at wholesale prices and delivery to all major countries. Whether you are in the USA, the UK or Australia, we can ship premium-grade in-shell walnuts to your location at the guaranteed best price.

Inshell walnuts, also called whole walnuts, are walnuts that have their shell preserved. This type of walnut is highly popular and widely used. They grow in many countries, but China, the US and Turkey are some of the biggest producers of the highest quality walnuts in the world. And now, you can buy the best premium quality whole walnuts online at CameroonTimberExportSarl with doorstep delivery anywhere in the world. Just call us to tell us about your requirements or to place your order today.

CameroonTimberExportSarl is the no. 1 supplier and global exporter of wood products like timber, logs, slabs, wood boards and plywood in the world. We are in the process of expanding our product line and have recently added many new products/services to our website. Make sure to check them out. To order, just call us or fill-up the form on our website.

What Are the Different Types of Defects in Timber?

major defects in timber

different types of defects in timber

Defects in timber are a very natural thing and can happen for many reasons such as natural forces, calamity, environment, insects, fungi, seasoning, etc. Having a brief knowledge of the different types of timber defects can help you easily identify a defect so that it can be dealt with properly and on time. Timber defects when not handled on time can lead to serious damage to your timber, making it unusable or reducing its lifespan.

CameroonTimberExportSarl is a top provider & exporter of high-quality wood timber in 50+ species and at the best price with doorstep delivery to all major countries around the globe. Our timbers are locally-produced, quality-tested and defect-free.

Different types of timber defects occur at different stages during the production and processing of timber. Let’s talk about the different types of natural defects in timber caused due to things such as natural forces, insects, fungi, seasoning and timber conversion.

5 Major Timber Defects In Detail

1. Types of Timber Defects Caused by Natural Forces

A large number of timber defects might occur due to natural forces, including wind cracks, shakes, upsets, burls, chemical stains, twisted fibers, water stains, knots and more.

  • Wind cracks occur when the outer surface starts shrinking and cracks are formed on the timber surface due to constant exposure to high-speed winds.
  • Shakes are cracks in the wood that might occur due to a variety of reasons such as non-uniform growth of wood or bending due to natural causes. Common types of timber shakes include cup shakes, heart shakes, ring shakes, star shakes and radial shakes.
  • Twist Fibers occur when the fibers in a timber tree are twisted due to external sources like high-speed winds.
  • Upsets are another type of timber defect that occur when the wood fibers are crushed due to external forces like high-winds or improper chopping.
  • Rind Galls refer to when trees start curved swelling, which generally happens due to inappropriate removal of a tree branch.
  • Burlsare uneven shapes that occur on the body of the tree due to specific injuries including shocks occurring during its growth.
  • Water stains are stains caused due to constant contact of wood with water which results in a permanent stain occurring on the wood surface.
  • Chemical Stains occur when the wood starts reacting with external chemicals like gases present in the atmosphere.
  • Dead wood is the wood that is extracted from a dead tree. It is very light and has poor strength and durability.
  • Timber knots occur after conversion of timber on places where a branch has been removed and a mark has been left as a result.
  • Coarse grain is when the gap between the annual rings is unusually large in fast-growing trees.
  • Druxiness is a type of defect in which the timber surface starts showing white spots and may lead to fungi problems.
  • Callus is the soft skin that covers the wound of a tree.

2. Variety of Wood Defects Caused Due to Fungi

Fungi in timber can lead to a variety of defects in the wood, which may include dry rot, wet rot, white rot, brown rot, heart rot, blue stain and sap stain.

  • Dry rot is when the wood is being eaten by a specific type of fungi, which converts it to a dry powder form. This happens when the wood has been improperly seasoned.
  • Wet rot occurs when the wood is put through alternate dry and wet conditions and fungi starts growing on it.
  • Brown rot is when the timber color turns brownish because a specific type of fungi has been eating its cellulose compounds.
  • White rot occurs when the timber color turns white because these types of fungi eat the timber lignin.
  • Blue stain is a type of defect which is caused by a specific type of fungi that turns the wood blue.
  • Heart rot occurs when fungi eat up the heartwood of a tree, usually through a newly grown branch.
  • Sap stain occurs when a type of fungi makes the sapwood discolored. This generally happens in timber with 25% or higher moisture content.

3. Types of Timber/Wood Defects Caused During Seasoning

Seasoning is the process of drying timber to reduce moisture content without causing physical damage to the wood. Inappropriate seasoning can lead to a number of defects, such as bow, cup, check, split, twist, warp, collapse and others.

  • Bow is when timber planks start forming a curve shape when stored for a long period after seasoning.
  • Cupping of timber refers to the timber having a curve along its width.
  • Sometimes due to over seasoning of timber, the wood fibers start separating, causing cracks in the wood, which are called checks
  • When checks spread to either end of the timber, it results in the wood splitting into two or more parts.
  • Twistis when the timber has a spiral curve along its length.
  • Honeycombing in timber occurs due to stresses created during the seasoning process.
  • When the top surface of wood dries rapidly than the inner part during seasoning, a type of defect is formed that is called case hardening
  • Collapse is the wood defect that occurs due to improper drying shrinkage of wood caused due to uneven drying of different parts.

4. Types of Timber Defects Caused by Insects

Insects are one of the primary reasons to destroy the quality and reduce the lifespan of timber. While some woods are resistant to insect attack, others are not and may need to be treated externally.

Termites, beetles and marine borers are three of the most common types of insect responsible for timber damage. Termites are white ants that eat up the timber from the inside without harming the outer layer. Beetles are small insects that affect the sapwood of the timber, converting it into power form. Marine borers live inside the timber by making large holes up to 60mm.

5. Major Wood Defects Caused During Conversion

Conversion is the process of turning wood logs into timber or lumber that is ready to use. A variety of defects can occur during the timber conversion process. The most common ones include diagonal grain, torn grain, chip mark and wane.

To know more about our timber seasoning and conversion process and how we ensure minimal defects on timber, contact CameroonTimberExportSarl.