If you can use either softwood or hardwood structural timbers on a project, then you might not be sure which wood to buy. If either wood suits your project needs, then softwood has some advantages you might find useful. What are they?

1. Easier Working 

Despite the name, softwoods aren't really soft timbers. These woods have many of the same hardness qualities as hardwoods. However, they do have a slightly softer surface and they are usually less dense than hardwoods.

This softer surface and lower density can make softwood easier to work with than hardwood. This is useful if you need to manipulate timbers or shape them during your project. You'll find that these timbers are more malleable; you won't have to spend as much working on your wood to make it do what you need.

2. Lighter Weight

While you want your structural timber to be strong and robust, you don't necessarily need it to be too heavy. If your timber is heavier than the norm, then you might need to add more support to your build. This increases your job times and your costs.

Hardwoods are typically heavier than softwoods. So, if weight is a concern, then a softwood might suit you better. These timbers won't add too much weight to any part of your build. So, your project should be more cost-effective and speedy.

3. Lower Costs

Hardwoods come from deciduous trees that take a long time to grow. It takes time to restock natural supplies after harvesting. Therefore, you'll pay more for these timbers. Their relative scarcity increases their price.

Softwoods are evergreen trees. They grow much more quickly. So, natural stocks can replenish themselves a lot faster. This availability reduces the price of their wood. So, if you use softwood, your structural timber costs will be lower.

4. Sustainability Benefits

The fact that hardwood stocks take so much time to replenish makes them a less sustainable option. If everyone used hardwoods for their structural timber needs, then natural stocks might never be able to catch up. This affects the environment.

Softwood stocks replenish themselves more quickly. They can cope with higher demand without causing too much environmental damage. So, if you want a sustainable solution, softwood is your best choice.

To find out more about the benefits of using softwoods on your project, talk to structural timber supplies companies. They can help you source the right type of timber for your job.