Wood - Strength, Density, Hardness: Sensory characteristics include colour, lustre, odour, taste, texture, grain, figure, weight, and hardness of wood. These supplementary macroscopic characteristics are helpful in describing a piece of wood for identification or other purposes.

Understanding the different kinds of wood—and how they’re best used—can make a world of difference when you’re planning a DIY project, shopping for new furniture, or even just appreciating the craftsmanship of a well-built piece.

It’s common knowledge that wood comes from trees. What may not be so apparent is the structure of the wood itself, and the individual components that make up any given piece of lumber.

An easy-to-understand introduction to wood; how it's grown, harvested, logged, treated, and turned into thousands of useful products.

Learn types of wood, wood names, hardness, uses, identification, and sustainability—from common lumber to exotic species.

Wood is the hard, fibrous structural tissue found in the stems and roots of trees and other woody plants. It is primarily composed of cellulose, lignin, and hemicellulose, which give it strength and flexibility.

Explore types of wood, wood species, uses, and key characteristics. Compare materials and visit our Wood Database for more details.

Each species has distinct properties affecting strength, workability, appearance, and cost. This guide covers 30+ common wood species with pictures to help you choose the right wood for furniture, construction, flooring, and outdoor projects.