Material properties vary between the different wood species. Even within the same wood species, there are major variations between different locations, but also between different trees grown in the same location.
Softwood trees are known as a gymnosperm derive from conifers with lower cost. Gymnosperms reproduce by forming cones which emit pollen to be spread by the wind to other trees. Pollinated trees form naked seeds which are dropped to the ground or borne on the wind so that new trees can grow elsewhere. Some examples of softwood include pine, redwood, cypresses and larch.
Softwood with flexible, lighter in weight and less dense advantages, softwoods are frequently used for interior mouldings, the manufacturing of windows, construction framing and generating sheet goods such as plywood and fibreboard. If desired for outdoor use, softwoods are often impregnated with biocides before being installed to improve the wood’s durability. Softwoods generally have a shorter service life than hardwoods in external applications as even after treatment they are often less durable and require more care and maintenance over their lifespan.
