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If you’re working on a new construction or woodworking project, the type of lumber you use impacts your final result. Lumber selection is a complex subject, so get professional advice by shopping at Freres Building Supply. With three convenient locations throughout the Willamette Valley in Oregon, this locally owned building materials store not only carries the best lumber and supplies, but offers expert knowledge.

Here are a few points of consideration when choosing the best lumber for your project:

  • Hard Or Soft Wood: Typically, you will need hardwoods, such as beech and maple, for tabletops, shelving units, and cutting boards. Softwoods, such as pine or spruce, are ideal for furniture making. Certain projects may even require both types.

  • lumberStability: Since wood expands over the years, mainly due to temperature and humidity, you’ll need stable lumber, especially for furniture and cabinets. There is a place for unstable grain patterns, which can be very attractive, but stable grain patterns are ideal for structures like frames.

  • Open Or Closed Grain: Closed grain lumber is ideal when you need a smooth finish or you’re concerned about moisture getting trapped in the wood, such as a butcher’s block or cutting board. Open grain lumber has a lot of character, making it better suited for rustic looking furniture, fencing, and certain art projects.

  • Color Fading: Lumber tends to fade over time due to light exposure, and each type fades at different rates. Keep that in mind that if you’re making a box or shelving unit, whose sides will likely be exposed to different levels of light. In those cases, quick-fading lumber would not be suitable.

Make sure you choose the right lumber for your project. To receive seasoned advice and friendly customer service, stop by Freres Building Supply in Stayton, Sublimity, or Jefferson. For more information on their inventory, call (503) 769-2879 or visit them online.

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