By name and by nature, hardwoods are harder-wearing and more resilient than softwoods. If your project requires maximum durability, for instance, an exterior window or building frame that may be weather-effected or load-bearing, then hardwoods are the best choice. Hardwood is more scratch-resistant and durable. Softwoods are softer with less pronounced grains than hardwoods, so beyond looking lighter, they also can carry less weight and wear far faster.
Hardwood wooden window frame construction
Hardwoods include Sapele, oak, beech, walnut and maple. There is also Accoya, a super-durable treated hardwood like no other. Hardwoods are heavy with distinctive grains and tend to be darker than softwoods, so they are usually reserved for bespoke joinery projects, crafting furniture, wooden flooring and fine veneers.
Accoya orangery in Yorkshire
Softwood used to be the only choice when making timber windows back in the day. But now, with technology advancing so significantly, softwood is no longer necessary. As explained above, hardwood timbers, such as Accoya or oak, create the longest-lasting doors and sash windows, with lifespans exceeding 50 years. We always use hardwoods with the confidence that they will not stick, swell or rot due to heat, dampness or water penetration – a game changer for both clients and manufacturers alike!
Some joinery companies will price jobs in softwood – generally to meet a low price, which may appear cheaper on the first examination. However, softwood will not last. Once a softwood frame is fitted, the problems begin. That is why we always recommend hardwood to avoid any timber nightmares for both our clients and joiners!
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