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Things to know about spf lumber

Things to know about spf lumber

The most common form of wood that is used across the whole building industry in North America and Canada is SPF lumber. It is affordable and good-quality wood that offers protection to external structures. 

What is SPF lumber?

The term SPF is the shortened form of spruce, pine, and fir – different kinds of conifer trees. In general SPF lumber talks about dimensional, an engineered wood that has its origin from the above-mentioned conifer trees in North America and Canada. The maximum supply of this type of lumber comes from Canada though.

Types of SPF lumber

SPF lumber is further classified into 2 distinct species namely the Eastern and Western.

The trees from which eastern species SPF lumber is derived are the following:

  • Balsam fir
  • Black spruce
  • Jack pine
  • Red spruce
  • White spruce

All these trees exhibit a tendency for slow growth. They lead to the production of wood with remarkable properties of strength and resilience.

On the other hand, the following trees belong to the western species.

  • Alpine fir
  • Engelmann spruce
  • Lodgepole pine
  • White spruce

These trees are available in very large sizes because of the general climatic conditions. So, it goes without saying, the logs they produce are large as well.

Properties exhibited by SPF lumber

The robustness of wood is determined by an important parameter called the strength-to-weight ratio. Wood corresponding to SPF has a significantly high strength-to-weight ratio. It also possesses somewhat tiny, solid knots. SPF lumber is also known to be dimensionally very stable.

Besides, it is endowed with first-class gluing properties. It can adhere to paints very easily and secure nails closely and tightly. Also, as far as building-related structural requirements are concerned such as strength, fire safety, and sound transmission, it meets all of them.

Uses of SPF lumber

The various uses of SPF lumber are as follows:

  • Commercial construction
  • Crating
  • Furniture framing
  • Joint-family home construction
  • Packaging
  • Single-family home construction

Besides its superior strength to weight ratio, the wood is reasonably priced. So, its use is highly popular all through industries that have engineered wood requirements.

What is an SPF lumber grade?

The quality of SPF lumber is graded in accordance with the rules and regulations put forward by the lumber grades authority of the corresponding country.

Grade 2 SPF is most commonly used. Its uses include dimensional lumber, furniture framing, and residential and commercial construction requirements.  

Other grades take in Grade 3, Economy, Stud Grade, and SPF MSR (Machine Stress Rated). The majority of manufacturing projects employ all the grades mentioned above except MSR.

SPF MSR is used for making trusses that are frameworks comprising posts, struts, and rafters. Trusses also help engineer and support a bridge, roof, or other structures.

Insights on the SPF lumber industry

Currently, the industry is going through lots of changes. Also, the American International Forest Products (AIFP) association is putting in efforts to just be in control of the changes and do proper planning for the future.

Of late, the supply of SPF lumber from Canada has drastically reduced because of problems such as wildfires, beetle invasion, and costs and tariffs imposed on the producers. Traders collaborate with mill partners all the time to ensure production meets the demand.

In recent years, the buying behavior of SPF lumbar has also undergone a change. In place of buying and stockpiling monthly inventory at one time, buyers are more inclined to manage lesser inventory.

They have started depending on instant deliveries. Industry leaders are purchasing SPF lumber in high volumes. They are providing both suppliers and customers with market direction and liquidity to add more value to their existing customer base.

Conclusion

If you’re dealing with the SPF lumber market and you’ve got project requirements to meet, you can get in touch with us today to become more familiar with our products and solutions and fulfill your diverse needs.

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