Choose the Right Material for Your Remodeling Needs

If you’re looking to tackle some home remodeling projects, you’ve probably discovered that there are a lot of lumber choices out there. This might seem overwhelming at first, but it’s actually a good thing to have so many available options.

At Houston Hardwoods Inc., we’ve been a top source for building materials in Houston for over 20 years, so we can help you find exactly what you need. Here are a few tips on lumber to get you started. Come talk to us about your project and we’d be happy to assist you with finding the exact lumber that suits your needs.

Take a look at your wood grain

Wood grain has a lot more to do with the success of your project than you might initially suspect. There are many different types of trees that can be used for home projects. Whether you’re creating built-in shelves or replacing the structure of your living room, the grain of wood (and the type of tree) makes a difference.

The wood grain itself refers to the growth direction of the cell fibers in the wood. Even if you choose two boards cut from the very same type of tree, you’re bound to see a different pattern, and that’s all right. The important thing here is the direction of the grain. In general, the more “dense” the grain pattern, the stronger the lumber. For example, if you need a durable wood for a structural building project, you’ll want to look for a straight-grained type of board because it will be strong. If you’re going to build something that’s focused more around aesthetics, you can look into different types of grains that add a unique beauty and character to your project.

Consider the density

Wood building materials in Houston can also vary greatly in density, and this will have its own set of pros and cons for any project. If you’re thinking about building your own set of furniture and you’d like it to stand up to extensive use, look for dense wood, as this will be stronger. It will also be heavier, but you’ll most likely find this tradeoff is worth it in the long run. Lighter wood is easier to move and handle, but you’ll probably want to use it for lighter projects.

Play around with color options

Color isn’t necessarily as important (structurally speaking) as density or wood grain, but it offers a world of possibilities for your design. From white pine and warm cedar to dark oak and luxurious mahogany, choosing a color that speaks to you and really suits your woodworking project will make your finished product stand out.

These are just a few of the many things to consider when searching for the building materials in Houston that are right for your needs. Give the experts at Houston Hardwoods Inc. a call today to get the best hardwood materials for your project, plus assistance from the pros to help you choose exactly what you need for a job well done.