Softwood Timber Price Guide: Costs, Types & Uses Explained
Softwood timber is widely used in construction, framing, and DIY projects due to its affordability. This softwood timber price guide explains current prices per cubic meter, common softwood types, and how to choose the best option for your project.
What Is Softwood Timber?
Softwood comes from fast-growing conifer trees such as pine, spruce, fir, and cedar. It is lighter, cheaper, and easier to work with than hardwood, making it ideal for structural and large-scale construction projects.
Factors Affecting Softwood Timber Prices
- Tree species: Pine and spruce are cheaper than cedar.
- Grade: Structural grades cost less than appearance grades.
- Moisture content: Kiln-dried timber costs more.
- Treatment: Pressure-treated timber increases durability and price.
- Supply & demand: Construction booms push prices higher.
Softwood Timber Prices Per Cubic Meter
| Softwood Type | Average Price (USD/m³) | Main Uses | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pine | $250 – $400 | Framing, furniture | Most affordable option |
| Spruce | $300 – $500 | Construction, beams | Lightweight & strong |
| Fir | $320 – $520 | Structural use | Stable and durable |
| Cedar | $600 – $1000 | Outdoor projects | Naturally rot-resistant |
Softwood vs Hardwood: Price Difference
Softwood timber is typically 40–70% cheaper than hardwood. While hardwood offers better durability, softwood provides excellent value for framing, roofing, and large structures.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cheapest softwood timber?
Pine is generally the cheapest and most widely available softwood.
Is softwood strong enough for construction?
Yes. Structural-grade softwood is widely used for framing and roofing.
Does treated softwood last outdoors?
Yes. Pressure-treated softwood performs well outdoors.
Conclusion
This softwood timber price guide shows why softwood remains the most popular choice for construction and DIY projects. It offers affordability, versatility, and easy availability across most regions.