Hardwood vs. Softwood: Know the Difference
By Shumaila Saeed || Updated on December 25, 2023
Hardwood comes from deciduous trees that lose their leaves annually and is generally denser, while softwood comes from coniferous trees that usually remain evergreen and is typically lighter and softer.
Key Differences
Hardwood is derived from angiosperms (deciduous trees), which are typically slower growing, resulting in denser wood. Softwood comes from gymnosperms (conifers), usually faster-growing, yielding lighter, less dense wood.
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Nov 19, 2023
Hardwoods, such as oak, maple, and cherry, are often used in high-end furniture, flooring, and cabinetry due to their durability and grain. Softwoods, like pine, cedar, and spruce, are commonly used in construction, framing, and outdoor decking because of their lighter weight and ease of use.
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The cellular structure of hardwood typically includes pores, which can influence the grain pattern and texture. Softwood lacks these pores, often resulting in a smoother, more uniform appearance.
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Hardwood is generally more expensive than softwood due to its longer growth cycle and durability. Softwood is more abundant and grows more quickly, making it a more cost-effective option for many applications.
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When it comes to workability, hardwood often requires more effort to cut and shape due to its density, but it also holds finishes better and lasts longer. Softwood is easier to work with, making it a popular choice for DIY projects and temporary structures.
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Comparison Chart
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Hardwood and Softwood Definitions
Hardwood
Wood from deciduous trees, known for its density and durability.
The dining table was made of high-quality hardwood.
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Softwood
Wood from coniferous trees, typically lighter and less dense.
The carpenter used softwood for the framing of the house.
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Hardwood
Commonly used in fine furniture and flooring for its strength.
Hardwood floors are known for their long-lasting appeal.
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Softwood
Commonly used in construction due to its affordability and availability.
Softwood is a popular choice for building decks and sheds.
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Hardwood
Known for a diverse range of colors and grain patterns.
The hardwood's grain added a unique character to the room.
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Softwood
Generally has a more uniform and smoother texture.
The softwood panels had a consistent and smooth finish.
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Hardwood
Typically harder to work with due to its density.
Crafting with hardwood requires more skill and precision.
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Hardwood
The wood of a eudicot or a magnoliid, such as an oak, maple, or magnolia.
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Softwood
The wood from any gymnosperm, without regard to how soft this wood is.
SYP is a softwood, but it is harder than many hardwoods.
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Hardwood
The wood from any dicotyledonous tree, without regard to its hardness.
Balsa is a hardwood, but a soft hardwood.
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Softwood
Wood of this kind, but limited to those that are commercial timbers.
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Hardwood
(countable) (in more general use) As the preceding, but limited to those that are commercial timbers, and are at least average in hardness.
Ash, hickory and oak are some of the most prominent domestic hardwoods.
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Softwood
The tree or tree species that yields this wood.
This softwood has been planted extensively throughout Scotland.
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Hardwood
The tree or tree species that yields the preceding.
This hardwood has been planted extensively throughout the hills here.
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Softwood
(uncountable) Any commercial timber.
You should have used softwood for the frame of this shed, instead of overbuilding it like this.
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Hardwood
(uncountable) A joint term for the commercial timbers, without distinguishing which.
You should have used hardwood for this window sill instead of this junk.
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Hardwood
The sport of basketball, in particular, an indoor basketball court; so named because the floor of an indoor basketball court is normally made of hardwood.
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Softwood
Made of the easy-to-cut wood of a coniferous tree, as e.g. pine;
Softwood lumber
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Softwood
Often grows faster than hardwood, making it more sustainable.
They opted for softwood for their project due to its sustainability.
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Hardwood
The wood of broad-leaved dicotyledonous trees (as distinguished from the wood of conifers); also items made from such wood; as, decorative hardwood.
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Softwood
Easier to cut, shape, and work with than hardwood.
Softwood is great for DIY projects because of its workability.
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Hardwood
Made of the hard-to-cut wood of a broad-leaved tree, as e.g. oak; consisting of a hardwood; as, hardwood floors; - of wood and wooden objects.
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Hardwood
The wood of broad-leaved dicotyledonous trees (as distinguished from the wood of conifers)
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Hardwood
Made of the hard-to-cut wood of a broad-leaved tree, as e.g. oak;
Hardwood floors
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Hardwood
Wood that is often more expensive due to its slower growth rate.
They chose hardwood for the cabinets because of its premium look.
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Repeatedly Asked Queries
Are hardwoods always harder than softwoods?
Generally, yes, but there are exceptions based on species.
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What is softwood?
Wood from coniferous trees, typically lighter and less dense.
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Why is softwood more commonly used in construction?
Because of its lower cost, faster growth, and easier workability.
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Is hardwood more expensive than softwood?
Typically, yes, due to its slower growth and durability.
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Can softwood be treated to last longer?
Yes, treatments can enhance its durability, especially for outdoor use.
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Does hardwood last longer than softwood?
Yes, generally hardwoods are more durable and long-lasting.
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Can softwood be used for furniture?
Yes, especially for pieces where lighter weight wood is preferred.
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What is hardwood?
Wood from deciduous trees, known for its density and durability.
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Is hardwood better for the environment?
Not necessarily, as its slower growth means less sustainability.
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What are some examples of softwood trees?
Pine, cedar, and spruce are common softwoods.
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What are some examples of hardwood trees?
Oak, maple, and cherry are common hardwoods.
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Can softwood be used for flooring?
Yes, though it may not be as durable as hardwood flooring.
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Are there any hardwoods that are relatively inexpensive?
Some hardwoods like birch and poplar can be more affordable.
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Is softwood easier to paint and stain?
Yes, due to its smoother texture and less dense grain.
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Do hardwoods have a more distinct grain than softwoods?
Typically, yes, hardwoods often have a more varied and pronounced grain.
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Is softwood good for carving?
Yes, its softer nature makes it easier to carve.
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How do I maintain hardwood surfaces?
Regular cleaning and occasional refinishing are recommended.
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Can hardwood be used for outdoor projects?
Yes, but it should be properly treated for weather resistance.
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Is softwood more prone to damage and wear?
Yes, due to its softer nature, it can be more susceptible to dents and scratches.
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About Author
Written by
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed, an expert content creator with 6 years of experience, specializes in distilling complex topics into easily digestible comparisons, shining a light on the nuances that both inform and educate readers with clarity and accuracy.
Shumaila Saeed
