Spruce
Picea species • Northern North America
Domestic Softwood
$
Spruce is a lightweight, affordable softwood commonly grouped with Pine and Fir (SPF) for framing and construction. It offers good strength-to-weight ratio and workability.
Janka Hardness
480
Density
28 lbs/ft³
Moisture
12-15%
Fire Rating
Class C
Durability
Class C - 5-10 years (untreated)
Price Range
$
Appearance
Creamy white to pale yellow
Key Characteristics
- •Lightweight
- •Good strength-to-weight ratio
- •Uniform texture
- •Low resin content
- •Straight grain
- •Easy to work with
Common Applications
- •Framing lumber
- •Construction
- •Millwork
- •Boxes and crates
- •Musical instrument soundboards
- •Paper production
Maintenance Requirements
Requires treatment for outdoor use. Low natural decay resistance. Best for interior or protected structural applications.
Advantages
- Very affordable
- Good structural properties
- Lightweight for handling
- Holds nails and screws well
- Minimal shrinkage
- Sustainable and renewable
Considerations
- Low natural decay resistance
- Not suitable for outdoor use without treatment
- Can have many small knots
- Less durable than cedar or redwood
- Can splinter easily
- Not ideal for staining