Published: 20/05/25 By: Mike Bekin
When choosing a timber species for your UK building and landscaping projects, you have two umbrella options – hardwood and softwood timbers. Within each of these categories are numerous individual timber species, but whittling your options down to either a softwood or a hardwood can make your decision a little easier.
With that in mind, we have put together this quick guide on which is better for your demanding project, with a range of examples to help you make the right choice for your construction or landscaping works.
Softwood vs Hardwood: Differences in Construction
The main difference between softwoods and hardwoods is the type of tree from which they come. Softwoods are derived from coniferous trees, which typically have needles and produce cones. Hardwoods, on the other hand, come from deciduous trees, which shed their leaves annually.
We always stress that being a softwood or a hardwood timber does not automatically lend specific characteristics to your timber. However, softwood trees do tend to grow more quickly than hardwoods, which can create a less dense timber. Hardwoods are in general slower growing and are more likely to be tropical, which can push up the price of your wood.
Remember, these guides are not true for all hardwoods and softwoods! Douglas Fir, for example, is denser than some hardwoods. While looking at either softwoods or hardwoods can reduce the options you need to pick through, remember that it is wisest to look at the characteristics of individual species rather than the category of tree.
Best Timber Choice for Load-Bearing Projects
When working on load-bearing and structural constructions, it is vital that you choose a dense, strong timber. There are a range of hardwoods we would recommend for this sort of project, including:
There are also a few softwoods which will suit load-bearing structures, such as Douglas Fir and Larch.
Best Timber Choice for Exterior Constructions
Exterior constructions can be quite demanding, and you require timber that will withstand the harsh British weather while also providing the unique characteristics your project needs. For instance, when installing cladding, your timber must suit your aesthetics while ensuring ample durability. Some of our top choices for exterior timber include:
- Cedar (both British and Canadian, though Canadian does bring a little extra durability)
- Pituca
- Iroko
- Greenheart
- Chestnut
We also love treated softwoods for exterior constructions. Treated Pine, for example, holds up really well when used in outdoor applications while being budget-friendly.
Best Timber Choice for Landscaping
When undertaking demanding landscaping projects, a key consideration is the timber’s exposure to moisture, insects, and fungi. To ensure low maintenance, you require a species with a natural resistance to these external threats, such as:
- Balau
- Opepe
- Greenheart
- Angelim Vermelho
These are all hardwoods, but you could also choose a suitable softwood. Cedar, Larch and Spruce are three great options for landscaping timbers.
Look into recycled Oak sleepers as well, to bring added sustainability to your landscaping.
Find a Timber Match at EcoChoice
The best way to choose the right timber for your demanding UK building and landscaping project? Get a professional opinion. To learn more about the right options for your unique construction, reach out to our team and we will be happy to help.
