Published: 10/11/25 By: Mike Bekin
In timber, there is one debate which is (almost) as old as time itself: softwood or hardwood? Whether you are building a deck or putting up a fence, these two types of timber often battle it out for the #1 choice. So, we thought we would take a look at which type most people choose for their outdoor timber projects, and declare once and for all if softwoods or hardwoods take the crown as the more popular type of timber.
UK Harvests More Softwood
In the UK, the majority of timber we harvest is softwood. Considering that we have a lot of great hardwoods growing in the UK (such as Oak and Ash), this seems like a good indicator that demand for softwood could be higher. Of course, we also need to consider imports and exports, so this does not give us a definite answer.
Which is Used More in Construction?
For a clearer answer to softwood vs hardwood popularity, we need to take a look at use in construction. According to the UK government’s Forest Research, most roundwood deliveries (timber which is left as logs rather than sawn or planed) are softwood, making up 92% of total deliveries, which equates to over 9 million tonnes. We expect that the most common softwood timbers for these projects are Pine, Cedar and Larch.
Is Softwood or Hardwood Timber More Popular?
In the UK, it is likely that softwoods are more popular than hardwoods. We harvest far more softwood and see more softwood deliveries, both of which give a clear indication that this is the go-to for construction. While hardwoods are not uncommon, especially for more demanding or specialist projects, for general construction, it is softwoods which win for UK builders, architects and DIY enthusiasts.
Why Are Softwoods More Popular?
Softwoods have earned their place as the everyday choice in UK construction because they grow quickly, are widely available and remain cost-effective. They are lighter and easier to cut or machine, which keeps labour and installation costs down. To bring extra durability, opt for Treated Softwoods or look for a tougher softwood timber species, e.g. Cedar.
When to Use Hardwoods
While softwoods might be the UK’s go-to, we still have a lot of love for sustainably sourced hardwood timber. Their density and general durability make them ideal for high-performance and structural applications. From piers and pontoons to river works and railways, you cannot beat marine-grade tropical hardwoods, such as Ekki, Opepe, Angelim or Greenheart.
Not sure whether to choose softwood or hardwood timber for your project? We can help. With a wide range of FSC and PEFC-certified species and a team of timber specialists, we are here to make sure you choose the right timber for the job.
