Lumber & Composites

Find the Right Lumber for Every Job

Whether you’re constructing a home or completing a DIY project like building a bookcase, we’ve got all of the lumber you need to do the job. Choosing the right wood for a project might seem overwhelming, but at Lowe’s, we want to make it easy for you to get what you need when you need it. Need help understanding the different types of lumber and what each is used for? We’re here to help.

Types of Lumber
Lumber ranges in density, texture, color and woodgrain. These are all things to consider when choosing the best option for your project. They can also be factors in lumber pricing. Choosing the right lumber for your project, lets you make the best investment in your materials. For example, denser wood is ideal for furniture and building while less dense wood can be used for jobs like woodworking projects. Texture and color are important aesthetic considerations whereas the best woodgrain to use varies depending on what you’re building. For example, when working on a structural application, a straight-grained board is generally the best option as it’s the strongest.

Treated lumber is suitable for exterior purposes and is treated for ground or above-ground contact. It’s resistant to rot, insect damage and more. Once it's fully dried, treated lumber can be stained or painted. Use it in applications such as decking, fence pickets, framing, support posts and more. Cedar wood is another option for outdoor projects since it naturally resists decay and insects. It’s natural beauty also makes it a favorite for woodworking projects.

Dimensional lumber and studs are milled on all four sides and come in a variety of lengths, making them immediately ready for many construction applications.

Plywood
Plywood comes in a variety of types for different uses. Plywood sheets can be used to support floors, roofs and walls. Another type of reconstituted wood is called particle board, which is made by mixing sawdust with adhesives. Unlike plywood, it won’t bow or warp, but it can swell when exposed to moisture. Particle board is typically used to build furniture, as an underlayment or as substrate for countertops.

Exterior plywood is made with waterproof glue for outdoor construction. It can be used for sheathing under floors and siding.

Medium-density fiberboard is made from broken-down hardwood and softwood that’s bound with wax or resin. MDF board is strong but heavy and can be used for projects like building cabinets and furniture, installing shelving and more. One downside of MDF is that it does not resist moisture well.

Oriented strand board is made with pressed wood strands. OSB is strong but has a rough texture and is typically used as a structural board. Builders often use 7/16-inch OSB for subfloors and as sheathing for home walls and roofs.

Hardwood is durable and attractive enough to be used for building furniture such as shelves, desks and table tops. Need decorative table legs for your DIY project? At Lowe’s, we have a variety of options, including classic and traditional table legs as well as square styles and more. Complete the look of a woodworking project by dressing up cut edges with a beautiful, easy-to-apply wood veneer.

Other Lumber Products
Shims are wedge-shaped pieces of wood, also available in plastic and metal, that are used to level cabinet bases, furniture and more. They are available in a variety of lengths so you can find the right ones for your projects.

Joists are pieces of wood installed horizontally as a structural element for floors or ceiling frames. After joists are installed, subflooring, drywall and more can be secured to them.

From lumber prices to wood type and grain, there is a lot to consider. We’ll help you find what you need for your building project. Visit the lumber yard inside your local Lowe’s or save time by buying Lowe’s lumber online and picking it up at the store. Still need help deciding what you need? Check out our lumber buying guide as well as DIY videos that will help explain things like what type of plywood you should use, different types of cuts, when to use nails or screws in lumber and more.