Understanding the Differences Between SPFs Lumber and SPF Lumber
When shopping for lumber for construction or woodworking projects, you may come across terms like SPFs and SPF. While they may seem similar, there are some key differences between the two. Understanding these distinctions can help you make the right choice for your project.
What is SPF Lumber?
SPF stands for Spruce-Pine-Fir, which is a classification for a group of softwood species commonly used in construction. These woods are grouped together because they have similar characteristics in terms of strength, density, and workability. SPF lumber is widely used in framing, and general construction due to its affordability and availability.
The three main species in SPF lumber are:
- Spruce
- Pine
- Fir
SPF lumber is known for its light color, fine texture, and ease of use. It is often kiln-dried to minimize moisture content and prevent warping, making it a reliable choice for structural applications.
What is SPFs Lumber?
SPFs lumber is a more specific subset of SPF lumber. The lowercase “s” in SPFs indicates that the lumber is produced from logs harvested in the United States, south of the Canadian border. Conversely, SPF without the “s” denotes lumber sourced exclusively from Canada.
SPFs lumber typically includes species such as:
- Red, Black, and White Spruce
- Norway Spruce
- Balsam Fir
- Jack Pine
- Red Pine
- Engelmann Spruce
- Sitka Spruce
- Lodgepole Pine
On the other hand, SPF lumber generally includes:
- Red, Black, and White Spruce
- Balsam Fir
- Jack Pine
- Engelmann Spruce
- Lodgepole Pine
- Alpine Fir
The designation of SPFs arose in 1991 after all lumber species in North America were re-tested under a new "full-size" testing methodology, leading to the classification under the American Lumber Standard Committee system. This distinction also means that SPFs and SPF lumber have differences in strength values, which can impact their suitability for various structural applications.
Key Differences Between SPF and SPFs Lumber
|
Feature |
SPF Lumber |
SPFs Lumber |
|
Meaning |
Spruce-Pine-Fir (Canada) |
Spruce-Pine-Fir (USA) |
|
Geographic Origin |
Canada |
United States (South of Canada) |
|
Species Composition |
Red, Black, and White Spruce, Balsam Fir, Jack Pine, Engelmann Spruce, Lodgepole Pine, Alpine Fir |
Red, Black, and White Spruce, Norway Spruce, Balsam Fir, Jack Pine, Red Pine, Engelmann Spruce, Sitka Spruce, Lodgepole Pine |
|
Density & Strength |
Varies based on species and region |
Slight variations due to different species mix |
|
Common Uses |
Framing, construction |
Structural applications, framing |
Which One Should You Choose?
The choice between SPF and SPFs lumber depends on your project’s needs. If you require lumber with a specific strength profile, it's important to check the specific grading and testing standards of each. SPFs lumber may be more commonly found in U.S. markets, while SPF lumber remains a staple in Canadian-sourced projects.
Conclusion
While both SPF and SPFs lumber share many characteristics, their primary difference lies in geographical origin and species composition. Understanding these distinctions can help you make an informed decision when selecting lumber for your next building or woodworking project. Whether you opt for SPF or SPFs, both offer excellent qualities for structural applications.