SPF lumber is softwood that has fewer knots but with growth rings. The majority of softwoods are graded into various grades labelled A through D. The SPF stamp indicates the lumber’s species. It stands for spruce, pine, and fir. SPF lumber is ideal for construction because of its competitive cost and high strength to weight ratio. Also, SPF low grade lumber can be used for a lot of other industrial applications like the production of engineered wood products, packaging concrete, furniture framing, pallets, and more. Although SPF wood is often used in construction, it can also be used in some fire woodworking projects. It is just important to ensure all materials are from the same stack of lumber to minimise the possibility of working with different species.
Different Species of SPF Lumber
Western species SPF lumber are obtained from Engelmann spruce, White spruce, Alpine fir trees, and Lodgepole pine. These species are available in bigger sizes due to the general climate and the size of the logs. Meanwhile, the species that come from the East are obtained from Black spruce, White spruce, Red spruce, Balsam fir trees, and Jack pine. They grow slower and produce wood with great strength properties.
Properties of SPF Wood
SPF wood has a high strength-to-weight ratio with small, sound tight knots. Also, it features dimensional stability and superior gluing properties. It is known for its ability to take paint easily and hold nails well. In fact, it also meets building code requirements for fire safety, sound transmission, and strength.
Benefits of Wood-Frame Construction Using SPF Lumber
SPF is used in North America for wood-frame construction. Wood framing is durable and economical. Also, constructing with wood frames offers a cost-effective option for construction homes, commercial buildings, and apartments. The following are the benefits of wood-frame construction using SPF wood:
- Accurate grades. SPF lumber is graded identically, based on the rules of the National Lumber Grades Authority. The products are regularly inspected from al mills to ensure the accuracy of their grades.
- Durable. Wood-frame construction is expected to last as long as the occupants of a building need.
- Quick construction. With wood-frame construction, only a crew of three is needed to get the job done. The crew can frame a floor per day per unit.
- Affordable. A lot of businesses and individuals opt for wood-frame construction because it is cost-effective.
- Up to codes. According to studies, wood-frame construction meets or surpasses building code requirements for fire safety, sound transmission, and strength.
