LUMBER

                                                                           Hometowne Lumber & Building Center handles all of the species of lumber indicated below.
Before selecting the lumber for your specific needs we present a brief summary of the types of lumber.

WESTERN LUMBER
Western lumber is known for its ease of workmanship and nailing as well as strength and dimensional stability.  This grouping includes more than 15 commercially important western softwood species most common of which are Douglas fir and Hem-fir.  It is classified as high quality appearance, general purpose board or radius-edged patio decking grade.  The Western Wood Products Association (WWPA) has a rigorous inspection and quality control process and once the product has passed inspection it is stamped with the "WWPA Rules" stamp.

REDWOOD
Most redwood sold is heartwood and sapwood grade.  Each type comes in several grades, from a fine finish appaearance to a rougher, less attractive finish.  HEARTWOOD contains natural barriers to termites and decay and is suited for application that come into contact with the ground.   SAPWOOD contains cream-colored streaks.  It should not be used in contact with the ground.  ARCHITECTURAL redwood is the strongest redwood.  It is normally kiln-dried and used for structural and finish applications.  GARDEN redwood comprises lower grades that are not kiln-dried and are commonly used for decks, fences and other outdoor garden uses.

SOUTHERN PINE
Southern Pine has high strength, resistance to wear and hold fasteners well.  It is often used in homes and other structures.  Descriptions for this type of wood range from 1 through 4.  #1 has the highest quality and best appearance.  #2 is characterized by tight knots and is generally free of holes.  #3 is good, serviceable sheathing, usable for many applications without waste.  #4 contains usable portions at least 24" in length.

TREATED LUMBER
This lumber is treated to resist weather, termites and fungus.  Treatment involves chemical preservatives forced deep into the cells in the wood under pressure.  Wood used for decks and other outdoor consumer use is generally treated with an inorganic chemical.  In 2004, the EPA outlawed the use of arsenic as a method of treating wood.  ACQ and copper azole are the current popular chemicals used.  Treated wood still absorbs water, and the treatment is not considered waterproof, but rather decay-proof.  Wood species typically uses includes Ponderosa pine, Lodgepole pine, Douglas fir, Hem-fir and Southern yellow pine.  VERY IMPORTANT:  Remember to wear respiratory protection when cutting treated lumber.

PINE BOARDS
Lumber 1" thick and of varying widths and lengths comprise this category.  Most consumer inventories range from1"x1" to 1"x12", up to 12" long.  From 1"x1" to 1"x6", increments increase by 1".  Then, lengths increase in 2" increments from 1"x8" to 1"x10" and 1"x12".  Most consumer sales are in the 4' to 16' lengths.  #4 grade pine is commonly called "garage shelving".  Many consumers use it for basements and garages where looks are not important.

Now that you have you basic understanding of lumber refreshed, come and see our wide selection.

Home | Kitchen | Bath | Building Materials | Doors & Windows | Flooring | Electrical | Plumbing | Paint & Stain | Storage | Tools & Hardware | Services | About Hometowne | Contact Us | Location | Calculators | Upcoming Events | Employment | Charge Account Credit Application