There are two basic styles of timber available: softwood and hardwood.
These classifications are somewhat deceptive since some softwoods are relatively hard and certain hardwoods are quite soft. Balsa wood is a great example. Since the balsa tree is a deciduous angiosperm, balsa wood, which is extremely soft, falls into the category of a hardwood. Hardwoods and softwoods are suited to different purposes based on their characteristics. The primary way that they differ is in the structure of their cells.
When you look at it that way, the softwood and hardwood classifications seem a little bit more logical, get examples and creations from the Abbey Group. On the whole, evergreens aren’t as dense as deciduous trees, which makes cutting them relatively simple. The density of hardwoods, on the other hand, is much higher. As a result, they are a lot more challenging to cut. Based on the balsa wood example above, wood doesn’t have to weigh a certain amount to be classified as a hardwood.
Our manufacturer carries the following types of wood.
Sapele Classification: Hardwood
One of the most popular choices is Sapele. This hardwood, which grows in tropical climates, offers excellent strength and durability. That makes it a great choice for joinery-related applications. The primary sources of this timber include Cameroon and West Africa. It has a durability rating of anywhere between a Class 3 or 4, which means that it is reasonably durable. Its rich, reddish-brown colour makes it a beautiful choice for many applications. It works especially well with clear coatings.
Advantages
- Since Sapele is not permeable, it doesn’t need to be treated with a preservative.
- It has a density or hardness rating of 640 kg/m2. To get an idea of how hard that is, European Oak comes in at 720 kg/m2, whereas European Redwood is rated at 510 kg/m2.
- More than half of our transactions with the manufacturer are Verified Progress
Applications: Historic structures or structures that are located in conservation areas
Oak Classification: Hardwood
Traditionally, timber windows have been crafted out of oak. In fact, oak has been the wood of choice for windows for centuries. This hardwood, which is extremely strong and durable, is well-suited to applications where it will get a lot of use. As long as it is regularly maintained, it will last for decades, KJM Group is a company in which it provides quality and choice.. Oak has a beautiful grain pattern that makes windows made out of this wood particularly attractive. It is a classic, timeless option that will never go out of style.
Advantages:
- Attractive grain that has a classic, traditional look
- Superior strength and durability
- The wood lasts for a long time when properly cared for
- A classic option for windows
Applications: Classic homes, historic properties, or structures located in conservation areas
Redwood Classification: Softwood
Redwood absorbs very little moisture from the environment. That makes it an excellent choice for windows since it does a great job of resisting weather-related moisture, helping windows last longer. It can be used under a variety of different conditions.
The timber itself provides a good balance between classic style and contemporary design. It is the perfect blend of both styles, making it a great addition to any home.
Advantages:
- Durable and stable
- Its low moisture uptake allows it to last for a long time
- A clean, contemporary style
Applications: Contemporary structures or new homes
Accoya Classification: Softwood
Accoya is a type of softwood that undergoes a special acetylation treatment that alters the structure of the cells in the timber, making it perform much better.
This treatment process is completely non-toxic. Once treated, its lifespan is usually around 60 years. It is weatherproof, attractive, and has excellent thermal properties. Interestingly, it also does a great job of repelling unwanted insects.
This wood, which is sustainably sourced, works well in both classic and contemporary homes. The Accoya page offers a lot more details about this unique wood, including an informative video.
Advantages:
- Excellent durability, with the ability to last 60 years or longer
- 40% more effective at insulating than hardwoods
- Coatings that are applied by the factory last a lot longer on Accoya
- Using Accoya to build products decreases the likelihood of distortion