Softwood in the woodworking industry

Softwood is the lumber from the monochotylae (angiosperm) and needle-leaved trees. The monochotylae tree can be identified easily as the tree with fiber root. He does not have the taproot and cambium circle as the hardwood. The timber does not have a wood grain pattern and is strong and clear as well as hardwood. The pores and grain scattered in the wood in an irregular position. There are only some species of this wood that can be utilized in the woodworking industry. Most of the wood is not strong enough and has the beauty to be used in the woodworking industry. The coconut and the aren (palm tree) wood are examples of the monochotylae tree that is much used in the woodworking industry. The coconut wood is quite hard and strong and also even has a nice appearance. Coconut wood has a unique appearance with a black stripe and irregular pores. However, the use of wood is more for structural purposes where strength and durability are more important factors. It is used to make house frames and construction. Some of this wood is also used to make furniture. See our previous article: coconut wood for furniture

hairy roots tree

the coconut tree cross section

The other softwood is needle-leaved trees. The tree is widely grown in the cold region and mountain slopes. The tree is easily recognized because it has leafy needles and is evergreen all the time. Included in this species are: pine, Douglas fir, spruce, and the family. This tree has a cambium, and the wood has pores and grain with a special pattern as the hardwood. The utilization of his wood in the woodworking industry is quite large. It is much used to make the house frame, fence, furniture, and also wood decorative products. 

pine tree

 pine cross section

 
The processing of softwood lumber in the woodworking industry is done similarly with the hardwood. The cutting, drying, and chemical treatment are carried out according to the wood character and the purpose of use. The wood that is used for construction can be dried faster. Some damage to wood surfaces, such as small cracks or discoloration, is not a problem. The wood moisture content required for construction purposes is also higher than the average m.c. needed for furniture and decorative products. Both reasons make the drying process for the wood faster.