What Is The Difference Between Hardwood And Softwood?

When it comes to types of wood, it can be divided into two major types – Softwood and Hardwood. The Differences Between Hardwood And Softwood lies in their origin, physical structure, quality and uses.

Simply categorizing hardwood as hard and softwood as soft is not the best approach. Even though it is true that hardwood is relatively more durable harder, there are some exceptions.

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In this article, we will discuss the various difference between softwood and hardwood and which type of wood is the best for which purpose.

The Differences Between Hardwood And Softwood

Here are the top hardwood vs softwood differences

Difference Type Hardwood Softwood
Origin Hardwood is produced from angiosperm trees or flowering plants that are not monocots. Leaves of these trees are broad and usually fall off during autumn and winter. Softwood, on the other hand, comes from gymnosperm species which have needles and cones in place of leaves. Their needles stay intact throughout the year.
Seeding Hardwood trees produce seeds. Softwood trees Don’t produce seeds.
Density Hardwoods typically have a higher density (but not in all cases) Softwoods have a lower density.
Fire Resistance Hardwoods are more resistant to fire and easily burns. Softwoods are not fire resistant.
Damage Resistance The lack of resin in the hardwood makes it more resistant to common damages like scratches. Softwoods are however prone to such damages.
Growth rate The growth rate of hardwood trees is comparatively lower. Softwood trees grow more in less time and get more dense.
Health Effects Hardwood have lower odor emissions which make them safe to use. Softwoods have a higher odor emission rate which makes them not a very healthy choice as they increase the probability of asthma attacks and other allergies.
Cost Hardwood is usually more expensive. Softwood is less expensive.

Uses Of Hardwood And Softwood

Below we mentioned the top uses of hardwood and softwood in different sectors.

Hardwood Softwood
Hardwood is primarily used for making high-quality flooring, furniture, decks and other construction for long-term purpose. Softwood is more popular as timber because of its low cost. It is mainly used in the construction of windows, doors, furniture items, paper, etc.
Making boats and ships
For tanning leather
Furniture making
Flooring
Fencing, gates
For timber frames of buildings
Home woodworking projects
Flooring, roofing
Structural framing
Furniture and cabinets
Panelling and cladding

Examples Of Hardwood & Softwood

Here are some examples of hardwood and softwood trees. Let’s Check out the list:

Hardwood trees Softwood trees
Alder, hickory, mahogany, balsa, beech, maple, teak, oak, and walnut. Cedar, juniper, pine, Douglas fir, redwood, yew, and spruce.

As you can see, both hardwood and softwood have their respective uses and a wide range of applications. Both types of wood are used as timber and round logs in many applications.

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