Softwood vs Hardwood: Suitability of Timber in Roof Lanterns

What’s the Difference Between Softwood and Hardwood?

The terms “softwood” and “hardwood” don’t necessarily refer to the softness or hardness of the wood but rather the type of tree they come from.

• Softwoods: Derived from coniferous trees, such as pine and spruce, softwoods tend to grow faster and are generally lighter, less dense, and more affordable.

• Hardwoods: Harvested from deciduous trees, such as oak, mahogany, and Sapele, hardwoods are denser, more durable, and often prized for their rich appearance.

Why Hardwood is the Superior Choice for Roof Lanterns

While softwoods are widely used in general construction, hardwoods are better suited for demanding applications like roof lanterns. Here’s why:

1. Durability and Longevity

• Hardwood: Species like Sapele are renowned for their strength and resistance to decay. When properly treated, hardwood roof lanterns can last for decades without warping, cracking, or rotting. Their high density also makes them more resistant to wear and tear.

• Softwood: Although softwoods like pine are affordable, they are less durable and prone to issues such as warping and decay. This is especially problematic in high-moisture or heat-prone environments.

2. Stability Under Temperature Extremes

• Hardwood: Hardwoods like Sapele excel in high-temperature environments. Their dense grain structure and low resin content prevent the common issues associated with softwoods, such as resin leakage or structural deformation when exposed to heat.

• Softwood: In roof lanterns, where glass can create significant heat buildup, softwoods are less suitable. Softwoods like pine are prone to exuding resin under high temperatures, which can stain glass and compromise the structure’s aesthetics.

3. Aesthetic Appeal

• Hardwood: Hardwoods have a richer and more refined grain pattern, making them ideal for high-end roof lanterns. Sapele, for instance, offers a uniform texture and attractive natural color that complements a wide range of architectural styles.

• Softwood: While softwoods can be stained or painted, their natural grain is less visually appealing and often requires additional finishing to achieve a premium look.

4. Environmental Sustainability

• Hardwood: When sourced responsibly, hardwoods like Sapele are a sustainable choice. FSC-certified hardwoods are harvested in ways that promote forest regeneration and biodiversity. Additionally, their long lifespan means fewer replacements, reducing the overall environmental footprint.

• Softwood: Softwoods grow faster and are more readily available, which can make them a sustainable option. However, their shorter lifespan and need for frequent replacement can offset these benefits over time.

The Case Against Softwood in Roof Lanterns

While softwood has its place in construction, its limitations make it less suitable for roof lanterns:

• Lower Resistance to Moisture: Softwood is more porous and less resistant to moisture, leading to a higher risk of rot and decay.

• Heat Sensitivity: Softwood’s tendency to exude resin under heat makes it unsuitable for applications involving glass and direct sunlight.

• Shorter Lifespan: Softwood structures often need more frequent repairs or replacements, increasing long-term costs and environmental impact.

Why We Choose Sapele Hardwood for Roof Lanterns

At Just Roof Lanterns, we exclusively use Sapele hardwood for our timber roof lanterns. Here’s why:

• High Durability: Sapele’s dense grain makes it resistant to wear, moisture, and extreme temperatures.

• Heat Performance: Unlike softwood, Sapele does not release resin, making it ideal for use in roof lanterns where heat buildup is common.

• Aesthetics: Its warm, rich tones and uniform grain create a luxurious finish that enhances any space.

• Sustainability: We source all our Sapele from FSC-certified suppliers, ensuring that our products are both beautiful and environmentally responsible.

Conclusion: Hardwood Out performs Softwood in Roof Lanterns

While softwoods are economical and versatile, they simply don’t meet the rigorous demands of roof lantern construction. Hardwoods like Sapele offer superior durability, aesthetic appeal, and resistance to environmental factors, making them the clear choice for high-quality, long-lasting roof lanterns.

When you invest in a roof lantern from Just Roof Lanterns, you’re choosing a product built to last, crafted from the finest materials, and sourced with care for the environment.