Comparing Framing Timber: Pine vs. Hardwood

What Framing Timber is Right for you?

When it comes to selecting framing timber for construction projects, there are two popular options: Pine framing and structural hardwood. Each timber has advantages and disadvantages, and with a wide variety of grades, strengths and treatments available, choosing the right framing timber for your project is important. Below is a comparison of the two structural timbers to help you make an informed decision.

Pine Framing

Advantages of Pine Framing

Cost-effective & readily available: Pine is a popular choice for framing timber due to its cost-effectiveness, making it an attractive option for most construction projects. It is also readily available with no local sourcing issues.

Lightweight & easy to work with: Another advantage of pine framing is its lightweight nature. This makes it easy to work with, allowing for quicker handling, reduced physical strain and faster installation.

Sustainable: Pine is widely regarded as sustainable. Sourced from fast-growing trees, it is often harvested responsibly, ensuring a lower environmental impact compared to some hardwood species.

Disadvantages of Pine Framing

Susceptibility to warping & splitting: Despite its advantages, pine is more susceptible to warping and splitting if not used in the correct manner. For example, H1 treated pine offers protection against insects for indoor, above-ground use and yet H3 treated pine is suitable for outdoor, above-ground use providing protection against decay and insects.

Requires treatment in certain circumstances: Pine is susceptible to termite and insect attacks. It can require treatment when used in certain situations, states and territories, which can add to the overall cost of the project.

Pine Framing Options

Strength Grades: MGP10, MGP12, MGP15

Treatments: CCA (copper chrome arsenate), ACQ (alkaline copper quaternary), MicroPro, LOSP (light organic solvent preservative).

Hazard Levels: H1treated pine (above ground use) up to and including H6 treated pine (Marine environments/ maximum protection)

Structural Hardwood Framing

Advantages of Hardwood

Durability and longevity: When choosing framing timber for structural applications, hardwood is often selected for its ability to withstand significant loads and resist wear over time. This makes structural hardwood an excellent choice for beams and load-bearing walls.

Visual Appeal and versatility: Most hardwoods have an attractive grain, pattern and colour that can enhance the aesthetic of any project, whether it’s a residential home or a commercial building. This feature allows hardwood to be used in exposed applications where the timber will be visible, adding character and value to the home. In addition, the timber can be stained in any tone to help complement the design.

Resistance to Insects and Decay: Many hardwoods are resistant to decay and insect attacks. This is due to the natural oils within the hardwood that deter pests and resist environmental damage. This resilience makes hardwood a great choice for projects in areas prone to termites.

Disadvantages of Hardwood

Higher Cost: Due to its slower growth and higher density, hardwood is a more expensive framing timber compared to pine. While it is more durable and resilient, the initial price can make it less appealing. However, these upfront costs should be weighed up against overall project benefits.

Heavier and harder to work with: Hardwood is heavier and can be more challenging to work with than pine. This increased weight may require additional labour and equipment during installation, potentially extending project timelines. The density of a lot of hardwood, means the builder may need to pre-drill and use specific fasteners to avoid splitting the timber.

Structural Hardwood Options

F stress grade: F1 (lowest grade) and can exceed past F34.

Treatments: CCA (copper chrome arsenate), ACQ (alkaline copper quaternary), MicroPro, LOSP (light organic solvent preservative).

Hazard Levels: H1treated hardwood (above ground use) up to and including H6 treated hardwood (Marine environments/ maximum protection).

Durability Class: Class 1 (highest class) to Class 3 (lowest class recommended).

Bowens Framing Timber

Bowens supplies a wide range of framing timber including pine framing and structural hardwood, each with their own distinct advantages and disadvantages. Explore our range of framing timber online at bowens.com.au or drop into one of our conveniently located stores across Melbourne and regional Victoria.

Looking for structural beams for your next build? Check out our blog, “LVL vs Timber Beams. What’s the difference?” to explore the key differences between these two structural supports.