When you need to buy lumber, the choices might feel endless. Choosing the right lumber is important for every project since each type of lumber is created or treated for specific building purposes.
Whether you’re a general contractor or a homeowner who loves DIY projects, knowing the difference between engineered, sawn, and treated lumber can help you make informed decisions at the lumberyard.
ENGINEERED LUMBER
Engineered lumber is created by fusing pieces of real wood, scrap wood, shredded wood fibers, and sawdust with adhesives. Since it can be made with leftover bits of wood, it helps reduce waste. Engineered lumber looks like wood, but is made to be stronger and more durable. It can be made to have special qualities like being water-resistant and warp-resistant, making it a good option for flooring, furniture, and joists and beams for building.
Common types of engineered lumber include particle board, engineered wood flooring, and plywood, which is made with layers of veneer. Since engineered lumber is created, not found naturally, it can be made to fit any custom design or size.
SAWN LUMBER
When you think of lumber, you problaly envision sawn lumber. Sawn lumber refers to the way lumber directly from a log is cut with a saw into specific shapes and sizes. It has a natural wood grain and is cut into planks.
Sawn lumber comes in different grades and species fit for framing a house, building furniture, or creating structures like birdhouses, shelves, benches, and more. Plain-sawn, quarter-sawn, and flat-sawn lumber are common types that are differentiated by the way the log is cut into boards.
TREATED LUMBER
Treated lumber, also referred to as pressure-treated wood, is treated with preservative chemicals to extend its lifespan. Treated lumber is prevented from decaying and the chemicals it’s infused with keep pests from eating away at it. When cutting, sawing, or sanding treated lumber, always wear a mask. Common types of treated lumber are water-based and oil-based.
Treated lumber works well for outdoor projects like decks and fences since it won’t rot, but it can also be used for residential, commercial, and industrial construction projects.
LUMBER AT MILLER’S BUILDING SUPPLY
When you need lumber for your project, come see us at Miller’s Building Supply, located at 1819 East Monroe Street in Goshen, or check out what we carry online. Whether you’re a contractor or homeowner in need of lumber, we carry engineered, sawn, treated, and more varieties to meet your needs.