Unsure what the best wood for a DIY project is? Don’t worry - we're here to help.
E O Burton has over 69 years of experience supplying timber to DIYers and professionals.
Selecting the right timber for your specific project can be a confusing task. How exactly do you know which wood is going to be right? Wondering where to buy wood that will fit your project perfectly?
This blog will help you understand what to look for in your wood, how to choose between hardwood and softwood and what wood works best for what DIY project!
Softwood: The Beginner-Friendly Option
What makes this type of wood a popular choice for many projects? It boasts a range of advantages over hardwood. Firstly, softwood is an affordable option, as it’s generally more budget-friendly than hardwoods.
Softwoods are also softer (it’s in the name) and lighter, making them easier to cut, shape, and manipulate with your tools. So they’re ideal for beginners who want to try their hand at woodworking. They’re suitable for a wide range of projects, from furniture to outdoor structures, so they can suit most DIY woodwork projects.
Which softwood is right for you? Here are your choices from E.O. Burton…
Your Choices Of Softwoods At E.O. Burton
Southern Yellow Pine
Pros:
- Highly affordable
- Widely available in various dimensions
- Easy to work with
- Takes stain and paint well
- Strong and durable when pressure-treated
Cons:
- Prone to dents and scratches if untreated
- Requires treatment for outdoor use
Best For:
- Construction framing (when treated)
- Outdoor projects like decking and fences (when treated)
- Indoor furniture like cupboards, tables and chairs
Western Red Cedar
Pros:
- Naturally resistant to rot, decay, and insects
- Beautiful reddish-brown colour with a distinct aroma
- Durable and stable, with minimal warping or shrinking
Cons:
- More expensive than pine
- Can require more maintenance
Best For:
- Outdoor projects like decking, cladding, fencing
- Indoor projects where its lasting woody scent can be helpful, like inside a wardrobe or drawers.
Larch
Pros:
- Naturally durable and weather-resistant
- Attractive reddish-brown colour that weathers to a silvery grey
- Good strength
- More affordable than cedar
Cons:
- Can be prone to knots and resin pockets
- May require occasional treatment for added protection
Best For:
- Outdoor projects like decking, cladding, fencing
- Interior panelling
- Furniture and cabinetry
Hardwood: The Choice For Durability and Beauty
Hardwood is a firm favourite for professional contractors and DIYers alike. So what has it got to offer? Hardwoods are generally more resistant to dents, scratches and wear. Because of this durability, they often have a longer lifespan than softwoods, making them a good investment for furniture and flooring.
And if you’re looking for something with aesthetic appeal, hardwoods often have rich colours and beautiful grain patterns.
So which hardwood is right for you? Here are your choices from E. O. Burton…
E.O. Burton’s Best Hardwood For DIY Projects
Poplar
Pros:
- Very affordable, often the cheapest hardwood option
- Soft and easy to work with hand or power tools
- Takes paint exceptionally well, ideal for painted projects
Cons:
- Not as strong or durable as other hardwoods
- Not the most visually appealing wood for natural finishes
Best For:
- Beginner projects, like a side table
- Painted furniture
- Lining cupboards
Meranti
Pros:
- Affordable
- Easy to work with, but requires sharp tools to avoid splintering
- Attractive reddish-brown colour with a straight grain, suitable for staining or clear finishes
Cons:
- Not as durable as other hardwoods
- Not recommended for outdoor use
Best For:
- Indoor furniture
- Cabinets, shelves
- Decorative items like carving
American White Oak
Pros:
- Durable and strong, resistant to wear and tear
- Classic light colour and attractive grain pattern
- Takes stain well and can be finished to a beautiful patina
Cons:
- More expensive than Poplar or Meranti
- Can be slightly more difficult to work with due to its hardness
Best For:
- DIYers with some experience
- Furniture
- Flooring
- Mouldings
European Oak
Pros:
- Similar to American White Oak but with more pronounced grain patterns
- Extremely strong and durable
- Beautiful, timeless appearance
Cons:
- More expensive than American White Oak
- Can be challenging to work with due to its hardness
Best For:
- Experienced DIYers
- High-end projects
- Furniture
- Flooring
Choosing the Right Wood For Your DIY Project
There are some crucial points to consider when choosing the right wood for your project. Here are some of the areas you should think about before committing to a purchase…
Project Type: Is your wood going to be used indoors or outdoors? Will it be used for furniture, shelving, or structural uses? Consider the specific requirements of your project, as pressure-treated softwoods or naturally durable hardwoods can be ideal in outdoor applications, while indoor projects let you focus more on the visual appeal of the wood.
Skill Level: Choose a wood that matches your woodworking experience. Softwoods are generally easier for beginners, as they’re easy to work with and cut without splintering or tearing as much as hardwoods.
Budget: Set a realistic budget and explore your options within that range. Softwoods are typically more affordable than hardwoods, although investing in sturdy hardwoods can pay off in the long run.
Desired Look: Consider the aesthetics you want to achieve (rustic, modern, traditional). Different woods offer different colours, grain patterns, and textures, so be sure to browse your options and get a clear picture of the final look you want from your chosen wood.
Professional expertise: Consider getting reliable advice from our knowledgeable team at E O Burton, who can assist with your wood selection and answer any questions. We’re here to help you pick out the best wood for your project, with tips on cutting, finishing and treating.
Your Choice Of Softwoods & Hardwoods…
Several factors - from project type to personal skill level - must be considered when choosing the best wood for a DIY project.
E O Burton is ready to help you order the right wood so your project is a success. Thinking about ordering your wood? Browse our selection or get in touch for expert softwood and hardwood guidance.