When it comes to classification, timber can be classified into softwood and hardwood.
These terms can be misleading as not all the hardwoods are hard and not all the softwoods are soft. Take the example of Balsa wood. It is a deciduous angiosperm but it is called a hardwood even when the wood is very soft. The only thing you need to remember is that this classification is based on various properties. Both these types of wood have different properties that suit different requirements. The main difference between softwoods and hardwoods is their cellular structure.
The terminology of softwood and hardwood does make some sense. Deciduous trees are denser as compared to evergreens which makes evergreens easier to cut, whereas hardwoods are too dense which makes them harder to cut. As the example of Balsa wood demonstrates, classification as hardwood doesn’t require the wood to have any minimum weight.
Our manufacturer uses many different types of woods.
Sapele – Hardwood
Windows made from this wood are highly popular. It is a stable, durable and strong tropical hardwood that is perfectly suited to joinery manufacturing. West Africa and the Cameron are the main sources of this wood. In terms of durability, it has a Class 3 to 4 rating which means it moderately durable. It looks attractive as it has a dark reddish brown appearance which makes it perfect for a transparent coating.
Major Benefits
- It doesn’t require preservation treatment due to its lack of permeability, which makes it treatment resistant.
- The density of this hardwood is 640 kg/m² when compared to the European Oak density of 720 kg/m² and European Redwood density of 510 kg/m².
- More than 50% of our purchases from the manufacturer are verified progress.It is especially suitable for heritage properties as well as conservation area properties.
Oak – Hardwood
Oak is a type of hardwood that has been traditionally used for making windows. In fact, it has been used for this purpose for hundreds of years. It offers incredible strength and durability making it suitable for heaviest of uses. Also, proper maintenance can make it last a lifetime. Windows made from oak look incredible due to the subtle aesthetics of the timber grain. These aesthetics also make it the perfect traditional choice.
Major Benefits
- It offers a heritage aesthetic due to its incredible wood grain effect.
- It is extremely durable and strong, and long lasting.
- It is one of the most popular traditional choices for windows.It is suitable for traditional aesthetic homes, conservation area properties as well as heritage properties.
Redwood – Softwood
The biggest advantage of redwood is that it has a low moisture uptake which makes it relatively weatherproof and helps in enhancing the lifespan of the window. This property makes it perfect for use in a wide range of settings. Windows made from redwood timber are the perfect choice for adding that traditional charm without the need to compromise on the modern aesthetics.
Major Benefits
- It offers excellent durability and dimensional stability.
- It has an enhanced lifespan due to its low moisture uptake.
- It is perfect for modern yet subtle aesthetics.It is essentially suitable for new builds as well as properties with modern looks.
Accoya – Softwood
This is a type of softwood with amazing properties. It is specially treated to change its cellular structure which helps in enhancing its overall performance. The treatment process is the non-toxic acetylation treatment process. In addition to its exceptional weatherproofing and thermal performance properties, it also have the advantage of an estimated lifespan of more than 60 years. It also looks great and is capable of repelling insects. Doors and windows made from Accoya are perfect for modern as well as traditional properties. It is sourced sustainably and if you want to know more about this softwood, take a look at our Accoya page for a video presentation and other relevant information.
Major Benefits
- It is extremely durable and has an estimated lifespan of more than 60 years.
- In terms of insulation, it is 40% better as compared to hardwood.
- Factory applied coatings will make it last much longer.
- Any products such as windows and doors made from Accoya are least likely to distort.
Take a look at our range of double glazed windows in Guildford.