A comparison of wood types – which is suitable for what
Wood is a versatile building material, but not every type of wood is suitable for every project. This article will give you an overview of three important domestic types of wood: oak, larch and spruce with their typical properties and possible applications.
Properties at a glance
Oak: Oak wood is very hard, heavy and particularly abrasion-resistant. It has excellent strength properties and is naturally resistant to moisture and pests. It is therefore ideal for load-bearing structures, durable outdoor furniture and high-quality indoor applications such as parquet flooring, doors, windows and decking.
Larch: Larch wood is considered to be the most resistant of the domestic softwoods. It is rich in resin and therefore particularly resistant to moisture. Larch wood is often used outdoors – for fences, facades or terraces, for example. Over time, it develops a silver-grey patina, but remains dimensionally stable and robust.
Spruce: Spruce wood is light, soft and particularly economical. It is easy to work with and is mainly used in interior fittings and roof construction – for example for rafters, wall cladding or floorboards. When used outdoors, spruce should always be treated with a suitable wood preservative as it is less durable.
Which wood for which project?
The decision depends above all on weather resistance, strength and the desired look:
- Oak and larch are particularly suitable for outdoor areas such as terraces, garden furniture or fences. Both are durable and do not require any additional chemical wood protection.
Spruce, larch or oak can be used for load-bearing structures such as roof trusses or posts – depending on the structural requirements and budget.
Spruce is ideal for low-cost interior constructions.
Oak scores highly for furniture construction or elegant interior design with its striking grain, but spruce or pine also offer beautiful, natural surfaces.
Tips for choosing wood
Take moisture into account
For outdoor use, you should choose wood with a high level of natural durability or ensure it has a suitable protective treatment. This will prevent damage caused by moisture and extend the service life of the structure.
Plan your budget realistically
Larch wood is generally cheaper than oak, but more expensive than spruce. The decisive factor is the intended use and the desired service life. Choosing wisely can save costs in the long term.
Consider appearance and ageing
Larch develops a silver-grey patina over time – a natural ageing process that can be delayed by oiling or varnishing. Oak wood darkens and gains depth, while spruce tends to remain light in color.
Conclusion
Whether for a rustic garden fence, a durable terrace or elegant interior fittings – each type of wood has its own individual advantages. Those who familiarize themselves with the properties and areas of application will make the better choice and benefit from a long-lasting result.
Our tip: If in doubt, seek professional advice. This will help you find the wood that perfectly suits your project, your budget and your requirements.