There Are Many Types and Grades of Lumber

The methods with which the lumber is handled, treated, and finished have a huge effect on which type is best for a given application.
There Are Many Types and Grades of Lumber
Lumber comes in many different colors and densities. WHYFRAME/Shutterstock
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Dear James: I went out to buy some lumber for some home projects. I was overwhelmed by the different kinds of lumber. What do the different grades and types of lumber mean?—Bobbi T.
Dear Bobbi: Lumber is more than just a tree cut up into boards. There are many species of trees with different characteristics. Also, the methods with which the lumber is handled, treated, and finished have a huge effect on which type is best for a given application.
James Dulley
James Dulley
Author
Send your questions to Here's How, 6906 Royalgreen Dr., Cincinnati, OH 45244, or visit Dulley.com. To find out more about James Dulley and read features by other Creators Syndicate writers and cartoonists, visit the Creators Syndicate website at Creators.com. Copyright 2025 Creators.com