Use and Care Guide

How to buy the best home-center lumber

Premium pine

Home centers also carry a higher grade of pine, which is usually labeled “select,” “premium,” or “clear.” This pine is

free from knots and other internal imperfections, so it’s great for creating a higher-end look at a cost slightly lower than

hardwoods. Clear pine is much more expensive than common pine, often costing three times as much or more.

Common Sizes 1x2, 1x3, 1x4, 1x6, 1x8, 1x10, 1x12

Softwood/Hardwood

Softwood

Color Medium to dark tan

Appearance Smooth surfaces, square edges, pronounced grain pattern

Common DIY Uses Furniture, shelving, tables, built-ins (especially painted)

Workability Easy to cut, drill, and glue; holds coarse-thread screws or nails

Cost $$$$$

What kinds of boards can I buy?

Poplar

Common Sizes 1x2, 1x3, 1x4, 1x6, 1x8, 1x10, 1x12

Softwood/Hardwood

Hardwood

Color White with areas of yellow, gray, and green

Appearance

Smooth surfaces, square edges, subtle grain pattern, may have large areas that

are darker toned

Common DIY Uses Cabinets, built-ins, painted furniture, shelving

Workability

Relatively to cut, holds coarse-thread screws well but may require pilot holes to

prevent splitting, glues well

Cost $$$$$