The Foundation of Construction: Exploring Structural Lumber In Building
Using high-quality structural lumber is essential for the success of any building project. Understanding the different categories and staying current on advances in lumber manufacturing and new environmentally friendly processes can help builders remain at the forefront of their industry and construct solid, safe buildings that stand the test of time.
Introduction to Structural Lumber
Structural lumber is heavy-duty lumber used to frame walls, create roof trusses and fabricate a building’s structural elements. It must be at least two inches thick and four inches wide to withstand excess weight and stress.
There are seven categories:
- Light Framing Lumber: 2 inches to 4 inches thick and 4 inches wide
- Structural Light Framing: 2 inches to 4 inches thick and 2 inches to 4 inches wide
- Structural Joists and Planks: 2 inches to 4 inches thick and 6 inches wide
- Beams and Stringers: At least 5 inches wide and 2 inches thick
- Posts and Timbers: 5-inch by 5-inch boards
- Appearance Framing Lumber: 2 inches wide and 1 inch thick
Each type of structural lumber is necessary for constructing a home or building. For example, a builder may use light framing lumber for wall framing and structural joints and planks for rafters or trusses.
Different Types of Structural Lumber
Several different types of wood are commonly used for structural lumber. Although hardwoods can be used for some classes of structural lumber, softwoods are most often used to mill structural lumber.
Softwoods like southern yellow pine, Western Red Cedar, Douglas fir and cypress are popular choices because they grow fast in many areas of the country and are less expensive to produce.
As the construction industry adopts more environmentally friendly practices, using woods that can be regrown and easily replanted in many climates throughout the country is becoming very important in lumber production.
Properties and Characteristics
Strength is one of the key characteristics necessary for structural lumber. Softwoods are ideal because they aren’t rigid despite being strong. They can hold weight while still being malleable enough to maintain their strength in different positions.
While hardwoods are great for flooring, they are too stiff to be used as structural lumber for building. Unlike softwoods, they can’t flex enough to maintain their strength in bad weather, extreme temperatures or different rates of pressure applied by the building’s structure.
This makes them prone to cracking and breaking if they are put under high pressure. Softwoods have the elasticity they need to maintain their strength without breaking or cracking when pressure is applied.
Applications in Building Construction
Structural lumber is used to create the primary framework of homes and commercial buildings because it can withstand pressure while maintaining elasticity.
Some of the many applications in construction are:
- Beams
- Columns
- Trusses
- Gusset Plates
- Rackets
- Walls
- Roof supports
- Window frames
- Framing
- Joists
- Planks
- Decking
- Railings
- Steps
- Subflooring
- Mantels
- Decorative beams
Sustainability Best Practices
Choosing fast-growing versatile woods is one way to engage in more sustainable construction because the trees harvested to be made into lumber aren’t old-growth trees. Planting trees continually also contributes positively to the environment.
Choosing renewable, responsibly sourced wood is a great way to overhaul your business practices to be more environmentally friendly.
Use Berry Home Centers for Your Lumber Needs
When choosing structural lumber for building projects, consider its sustainability and factors like its stiffness and strength. Visit Berry Home Centers today to learn more about renewable structural lumber and our various lumber options.
If you are looking for high-quality structural lumber, contact Berry Home Centers — you can talk to one of our representatives about placing an order for all the lumber you’ll need for your next building project.